39 Cheap Meatless Meals & Vegetarian Recipes
Enjoy budget-friendly meatless meals that are not only delicious but also help save money with affordable ingredients and satisfying flavors.
There are a lot of reasons to serve meatless meals. For one, they will help you save money, since meat is more expensive than most vegetarian ingredients.
These easy meatless recipes are great meals to make on a budget. And going meatless, even just now and again or for Meatless Mondays, can also be good for your health.
Whatever your reason, these affordable meatless meals and sides are satisfying, hearty and delicious. They’re packed full of filling ingredients from you won’t miss the meat.
Note that while this isn’t a specifically vegan list of recipes, many of the recipes state that they’re vegan. Some are also gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, etc. There’s hopefully something here for everybody.
By the way, there’s a whole other list of meatless chickpea recipes because chickpea is such a popular meat replacement ingredient. It’s so filling and full of protein and other goodies.
Budget-Friendly Easy Meatless Meals
This classic French dish brings a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables to your table, with each bite bursting with the flavors of juicy tomatoes, tender eggplant, and sweet peppers. It's the perfect go-to meal for those who love indulging in rich and aromatic Mediterranean cuisine while keeping things light and healthy. Whether served as a warm main course or a chilled side dish, it harmonizes beautifully with grilled meats or stands alone with its exquisite taste.
Imagine biting into perfectly roasted cauliflower bites that are golden brown and packed with savory flavors. The warmth of cayenne pepper and the rich taste of Parmesan combined with a hint of garlic create an irresistible explosion in every mouthful. Whether you're in the mood for a wholesome snack or a scrumptious side dish, these zesty little morsels have just the right balance to leave you wanting more.
Warm up to a deliciously creamy bowl filled with the goodness of vibrant veggies and melted cheddar, ideal for cozy nights in. This delightful blend offers a perfect mix of rich flavors and light freshness, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Whether paired with crusty bread or enjoyed on its own, each spoonful promises comforting nourishment.
This dish is a cheesy and savory delight that showcases the best of late-summer zucchini and tomatoes in a budget-friendly, hearty meal. With a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and creamy layers, it comes together effortlessly, making it an easy choice for any occasion. Whether serving as a main dish or a side, this casserole never fails to satisfy with its rich flavors and simple preparation.
Looking for a delicious and hearty comfort food that won't break the bank or take hours to make? Packed with protein and flavor, this dish features tender lentils, vibrant veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes. Perfectly suited for quick weeknight dinners, it's a meal everyone in the family will enjoy over and over again!
This dish takes a simple vegetable and turns it into a delicious meal that's both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With fresh zucchini stuffed with a savory mix of herbs, tomatoes, and cheese, it's a summer treat that everyone can enjoy. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this flavorful creation will quickly become a favorite staple in your repertoire.
A medley of vibrant veggies and rich, melty cheese comes together in perfect harmony, creating a mouthwatering dish that satisfies every craving. Baked to perfection on a single sheet pan, this colorful meal makes preparation and cleanup a breeze. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a stress-free dinner bursting with flavor.
Rich and satisfying, this vegan twist on a classic Italian meat sauce is packed with flavor and heartiness. It's perfect with spaghetti squash, creating a balance of savory and light textures that meld beautifully together for a comforting meal. Whether you prefer it with vegan Parmesan or regular cheese, this dish promises to leave you full and happy while delighting your taste buds.
This cozy and delicious soup transforms simple, budget-friendly ingredients into a satisfying meal perfect for cooler months. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it's sure to warm you up on busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Top it with your favorite garnishes for an extra layer of flavor and enjoy the warmth this dish brings to your family table.
Instant Pot Potatoes and Carrots Recipe: To Recreate Nostalgic Flavors
There's something magical about a dish that combines fresh, colorful vegetables with the nostalgia of childhood stews. In just 35 minutes, your kitchen fills with inviting aromas as the tender bites cook to perfection. It's the perfect side to complement any hearty main course, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
A vibrant, flavor-packed bowl awaits, filled with perfectly roasted veggies, hearty black beans, and fluffy rice, all topped with a creamy avocado sauce that ties everything together deliciously. This dish offers the ultimate comfort, being both vegan and gluten-free while taking less than 30 minutes to prepare. With customizable toppings, it brings a delightful and satisfying meal to your table any day of the week.
Packed with the vibrant flavors of Indian spices, this dish is a celebration of taste and texture. Mushrooms, cooked to perfection alongside onions, garlic, capsicum, and tomatoes, marry beautifully in this vegan culinary delight. Ideal for a quick dinner or lunch, it's a sensational pairing with rice or chapati that's bound to impress every mushroom lover.
Savory and smoky, this hearty dish is a comforting embrace on a chilly evening. Packed with protein and fiber, the combination offers not just warmth but also incredible depth of flavor. Perfect for those seeking an affordable yet delicious plant-based meal that will leave you satisfied and ready for more.
These tasty peppers filled with a zesty rice, tomato, and black bean mixture make any meal feel special. Baking them to perfection ensures every bite is savory and satisfying, leaving you eager for more. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner for two or a flavorful dish to share, these stuffed treats won't disappoint.
Satisfy your cravings with a warm, fragrant dish that's perfect for any curry enthusiast. This homemade journey into classic Indian flavors offers a creamy texture and sweet undertones, making it a comforting option for both newcomers and seasoned fans of curry alike. Paired perfectly with rice or naan, you might find it becoming your new weekly obsession!
Rich in flavor yet gently spiced, this Afghan dish transforms simple pantry staples into a heartwarming meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Bursting with the warmth of cumin and coriander, it brings a comforting vibe to your dinner table while being incredibly versatile for any dietary preference. Whether you're serving it with fluffy rice or enjoying it alone, it's a succulent bowl of comfort that's sure to become a favorite in your home.
This vibrant pasta dish is a feast for the senses, combining creamy coconut sauce and bright, crunchy bell peppers with spicy Caribbean flavors. It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal, bursting with ingredients that elevate each bite to something special. Even without the usual meat components, it delivers satisfying heartiness and warmth that will impress any pasta lover.
The perfect companion for a chilly day, this hearty stew offers warmth and comfort to even the most devoted meat eaters. Packed with chunky root vegetables and a rich, stout beer broth, it's both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you're vegan or just exploring plant-based options, your taste buds are in for a treat with this savory bowl.
Fasolada Recipe, Greek Bean Soup (Vegan, Creamy, Quick + Gluten-Free)
A steaming bowl of this hearty Greek soup is the perfect companion for chilly days. With its rich blend of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and tender beans, each spoonful offers a comforting taste of Mediterranean warmth. Pair it with crusty bread for an authentic and satisfying meal that leaves you feeling nourished and cozy.
Ever tried a dish that effortlessly combines crispy tofu and charred eggplants with a sweet, spicy sauce? It's like having your favorite takeout but better, right from the comfort of your kitchen. With the perfect balance of flavor and texture, this meal is bound to make your weeknight dinners exciting and delicious!
Combining the nutty sweetness of freshly grated cheese with the earthy aroma of garlic, this meal is a true family favorite. The crunchy almonds add texture that complements the tender strands of squash perfectly. Versatile enough for any meal, it effortlessly brings everyone together at the table.
There's something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of this homemade soup, brimming with vibrant vegetables and bursting with flavor. It's the perfect meal to enjoy whether you're looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, offering versatility and nutrient-packed goodness in every spoonful. Whether you cook it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
These vegetarian stuffed peppers are a culinary gem, brimming with a fragrant blend of rice, onions, pine nuts, and currants. Perfectly suited for any occasion, they make an excellent addition to your mezze spread or a tempting choice for lunch the next day. Mildly spiced and bursting with flavor, these peppers offer an easy-to-make yet impressive dish that's sure to become a favorite.
Packed with fresh and zesty ingredients, this soup is a cozy comfort that warms both the belly and the soul. A perfect blend of creamy coconut milk and spicy ginger adds a rich depth of flavor that's accented by just the right amount of heat from Thai red curry paste. Whether enjoyed as a meal on its own or paired with something crispy, each spoonful promises unforgettable taste sensations.
Sometimes, the combination of simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. This dish brings together a symphony of flavors with aromatic spices and tender legumes, perfectly cooked in a pressure cooker for an effortlessly delicious meal. It's a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious, hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Packed with bold, smoky flavors, these veggie-filled tortillas surprise even the most dedicated meat lovers with their irresistible taste. The meaty texture of perfectly marinated mushrooms paired with sweet bell peppers and onions makes every bite unforgettable. This colorful, easy-to-make dish is a game changer for busy weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings with friends.
These crispy delights are like a fiesta on your plate, offering a tasty balance of creamy beans and fresh toppings. Perfect for quick family dinners, everyone can create their own masterpiece with various vibrant ingredients. A burst of flavor, they satisfy both young and old and leave no room for complaints.
This comforting dish is perfect for a busy weeknight, filled with rich flavors and hearty ingredients that leave everyone satisfied. Quick to prepare, it's a one-pot wonder made from simple pantry staples that transform into a nutritious meal in just 30 minutes. With customizable toppings, each spoonful can be tailored to individual tastes, turning dinner into an enjoyable experience for the whole family.
This hearty and flavorful dish offers a comforting blend of spices, tender potatoes, and creamy lentils, bringing warmth to any meal. The sweetness of raisins perfectly balances the spiciness, while fresh spinach adds a vibrant touch that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Perfect for cozy nights in or enjoying nature's beauty after a long hike.
When you're planning a cozy weeknight dinner for two, the rich flavors of creamy tomato and mushrooms meld perfectly with each bite of pasta. Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients without overpowering the dish's delicate balance. And best of all, it comes together swiftly, making it ideal for those nights you crave homemade comfort without the fuss.
Easy Quinoa Veggie Wrap With Sweet Italian Dressing (Gluten-Free I Vegan)
Packed with vibrant veggies and protein-rich quinoa, this meal offers a burst of flavors wrapped in a wholesome package. The homemade Italian dressing adds just the right amount of tangy sweetness to elevate each bite. Perfect for busy nights or quick lunches, these wraps are both satisfying and nutritious.
This delicious one-pot meal is packed with earthy lentils and fresh vegetables, creating a comforting and savory experience. The blend of spices offers a subtle kick, making it perfect for both summer days and chilly evenings. Top it off with avocado, cilantro, and lime for added texture and flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
Experience the ultimate comfort food with a plant-based casserole that's perfect for family gatherings. Filled with savory lentils and orzo, this dish captures bold flavors without fuss. Trust the oven to work its magic as you enjoy every bite of this wholesome meal.
Nothing says fall quite like a warm bowl of flavor-packed goodness, brimming with the vibrant taste of pumpkin and tomatoes. The aroma that fills your kitchen as this dish simmers away in your slow cooker is simply irresistible. Add a smooth, creamy blend and some high-quality protein from red lentils, and you've got yourself the perfect meal to cozy up with on a chilly evening.
There's something about the combination of sweet and spicy that transforms a simple dish into a memorable meal. Roasted to perfection, the cubes boast crispy edges while remaining soft inside, perfectly balanced with a drizzle of maple syrup and a hint of chilli that awakens the palate. Whether served as a side or devoured as the main event, this dish's adaptable nature lets you experiment with flavors from pomegranate arils to creamy haloumi.
Cozy up with a heartwarming dish that beautifully combines the earthy richness of mushrooms with the sweet hint of carrots and the aromatic burst of fresh herbs. This meal promises robust flavors, all simmered to perfection in one pot, making it an easy choice for both weeknight dinners and holiday gatherings. You'll find yourself returning to this satisfying stew again and again, sharing it with loved ones or savoring it on your own.
This vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish offers a symphony of flavors and textures that comes together effortlessly. Surprisingly simple to prepare, it features fresh herbs, creamy feta, and zesty lemon dressing over wholesome grains—perfect for a nourishing weeknight meal or lunch on the go. Dive into this colorful bowl and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean anytime you crave something both healthy and delicious.
Searching for a scrumptious meal that even the most steadfast meat-lovers will happily devour on Meatless Monday? This recipe takes comforting home cooking to a new level with its satisfying combination of melted cheese and golden crispy shells, complemented by fresh toppings like guacamole and salsa. Perfect for families with picky eaters or those who enjoy customizing their meals, this dish is bound to become a household favorite.
Creamy cheese combined with spicy ingredients makes for an unforgettable experience that's both savory and satisfying. The chewy texture of the rice cakes adds an interesting, exciting element to each bite. With its perfect blend of flavors, this dish promises to become your new favorite comfort food.
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