12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals

Brandie D. Lutz

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals

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Are you tired of spending too much money on meals that don’t quite satisfy? If you’re looking to eat well without breaking the bank, you’re in the right place. I’m excited to share this list of 12 cheap vegan recipes that are budget-friendly and packed with flavor. Eating plant-based shouldn’t be a financial burden, and I believe great meals can be made with affordable ingredients.

This post is for students, busy professionals, or anyone who wants to enjoy affordable plant-based recipes without compromising on taste. If you care about your health and your wallet, these recipes will speak to you. They’re easy to make, nourishing, and wallet-friendly, making them perfect for those who are just starting their vegan journey or anyone looking to save a few bucks.

In this post, you’ll discover a variety of inexpensive vegan cooking options that can fit into your busy schedule. From mouthwatering dishes like Savory Chickpea Curry to quick snacks like Overnight Oats, these meals are designed to help you stay satisfied and energized without the hefty price tag. Let’s dive into these easy vegan dishes that will keep your taste buds dancing and your budget intact.

Cooking on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or nutrition. With these recipes in hand, you’ll have the tools to whip up thrifty vegan meals that you can enjoy any day of the week. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Key Takeaways

– Enjoy 12 delicious vegan recipes that are both cheap and satisfying, perfect for any budget-conscious cook.

– Each recipe includes basic ingredients, ensuring you can create meals without overspending.

– Recipes are designed for easy meal preparation, ideal for students and busy individuals.

– Discover a variety of dishes, from hearty meals to quick snacks, catering to diverse tastes.

– Save time and money while eating healthy with these affordable plant-based options.

1. Savory Chickpea Curry

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 1. Savory Chickpea Curry 1

Craving something warm and comforting? This savory chickpea curry is the perfect answer. It’s not just affordable; it’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Chickpeas are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making this dish both satisfying and healthy, all while being super easy to prepare at home.

You’ll love the rich spices combined with a creamy tomato base that elevates this meal to something special without breaking the bank. Perfect for meal prep, you can whip up a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft.
2. Stir in curry powder and cumin, cooking for another minute.
3. Add the chickpeas and diced tomatoes, and bring to a simmer.
4. Season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Serve hot with rice or bread.

– For extra creaminess, add a splash of coconut milk before serving.
– Leftovers hold up great in the fridge and can be frozen for later.

FAQs:
– Can I use dried chickpeas? Yes, just soak and cook them beforehand!

Savory Chickpea Curry

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:45 PM

2. One-Pot Pasta Primavera

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 2. One-Pot Pasta Primavera 1

Looking for a quick and colorful meal? This one-pot pasta primavera brings together vibrant veggies and your choice of pasta in one easy dish! Not only is it ready in just 30 minutes, but it’s also a fantastic way to get a healthy serving of vegetables.

With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for busy days when you still want to eat well. Plus, it’s super adaptable to whatever veggies you have on hand.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (any shape)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat; add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and add pasta. Stir well, cover, and bring to a simmer.
4. Cook according to pasta package instructions, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

– Use seasonal vegetables to keep costs low and flavor high.
– Top with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

FAQs:
– Can I use gluten-free pasta? Yes, just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!

One-Pot Pasta Primavera

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:45 PM

3. Lentil Tacos

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 3. Lentil Tacos 1

Taco night just got a nutritious upgrade! These lentil tacos are not only delicious but also budget-friendly and packed with protein. Lentils are an amazing base for your tacos, giving you a hearty meal that won’t break the bank.

Loaded with flavor and topped with your favorite ingredients, these tacos are sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup lentils, rinsed
– 1 taco seasoning packet
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Corn tortillas
– Toppings: diced avocado, salsa, lettuce

Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
2. Stir in the taco seasoning, cover, and simmer until lentils are tender (about 20 minutes).
3. Warm tortillas in a skillet.
4. Fill each tortilla with lentils and top with avocado, salsa, and lettuce.
5. Serve immediately.

– Add a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.
– Make it a fiesta by offering a variety of toppings!

FAQs:
– Can I use canned lentils? Absolutely! Just heat them up with the seasoning.

Lentil Tacos

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:45 PM

4. Creamy Vegan Pasta with Spinach

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 4. Creamy Vegan Pasta with Spinach 1

Craving something creamy yet dairy-free? This creamy vegan pasta with spinach hits the spot! It’s comfort food at its finest, using simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both satisfying and light on your wallet.

You can have this delicious meal ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (your choice)
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup cashews (soaked in water)
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
– Garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain.
2. In a blender, combine soaked cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; blend until smooth.
3. In a pot, combine cooked pasta and spinach over low heat.
4. Add cashew cream to the pot, stirring until heated through.
5. Serve warm, garnish with more nutritional yeast if desired.

– For a zestier flavor, add lemon juice to the cream mixture.
– Save some pasta water to adjust creaminess!

FAQs:
– Can I use other greens? Yes! Kale or arugula are great alternatives.

Creamy Vegan Pasta with Spinach

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:45 PM

5. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 5. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos 1

Need a filling meal that’s easy to grab on the go? These sweet potato and black bean burritos are just what you’re looking for! Combining the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with hearty black beans, they create a deliciously satisfying dish.

Perfect for meal prep, you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Ingredients:
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mash together the black beans and roasted sweet potatoes until combined.
3. Lay out tortillas and fill each with the mixture, then roll tightly.
4. Lightly pan-fry the burritos until golden brown.
5. Serve with salsa or guacamole.

– Add some shredded lettuce or avocado for a fresh crunch.
– These burritos freeze well for quick meals later!

FAQs:
– Can I use other beans? Yes, pinto beans or kidney beans work well too!

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:47 PM

6. Easy Vegan Chili

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 6. Easy Vegan Chili 1

When the weather turns chilly, nothing warms you up like a hearty bowl of easy vegan chili. It’s loaded with beans and veggies, delivering warmth and comfort in every spoonful.

Best of all, this dish is incredibly simple to make and perfect for batch cooking!

Ingredients:
– 1 can kidney beans, drained
– 1 can black beans, drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a pot, sauté onions and bell peppers until soft.
2. Add chili powder and cumin, cook for another minute.
3. Stir in beans and diced tomatoes.
4. Season with salt and pepper, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Serve hot with bread or over rice.

– Top with avocado or fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
– This chili tastes even better the next day!

FAQs:
– Can I add more veggies? Absolutely! Corn or zucchini make great additions.

Easy Vegan Chili

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:47 PM

Recipe Main Ingredients Estimated Cost Preparation Time
Savory Chickpea Curry Chickpeas, tomatoes, spices $5 30 minutes
One-Pot Pasta Primavera Pasta, mixed vegetables $6 30 minutes
Lentil Tacos Lentils, taco seasoning, tortillas $4 30 minutes
Creamy Vegan Pasta Pasta, spinach, cashews $7 20 minutes
Sweet Potato Burritos Sweet potatoes, black beans $8 40 minutes
Easy Vegan Chili Beans, tomatoes, spices $5 30 minutes
Overnight Oats Oats, almond milk, fruits $3 5 minutes

7. Overnight Oats

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 7. Overnight Oats 1

Looking for a quick and nourishing breakfast? Overnight oats are the answer! This simple, customizable dish is not only filling but also packed with nutrients to kickstart your day.

Perfect for busy mornings, you can prep it the night before and grab it on your way out the door.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups almond milk
– 1 tbsp chia seeds
– 1 tbsp maple syrup
– Fruit for topping (bananas, berries, etc.)

Instructions:
1. In a jar, mix rolled oats, almond milk, chia seeds, and maple syrup.
2. Stir well to combine, and refrigerate overnight.
3. In the morning, give it a good stir and top with your favorite fruits.
4. Enjoy cold or heat it up if preferred.

– Experiment with different nut milks or sweeteners.
– Add nuts or seeds for crunch!

FAQs:
– How long do they last in the fridge? Up to 3 days for best freshness!

Mornings are rough for busy students, but overnight oats change the game. Prep tonight, grab-and-go tomorrow, and enjoy a budget-friendly, vegan recipes cheap breakfast that fuels your day.

Overnight Oats

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:47 PM

8. Baked Falafel

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 8. Baked Falafel 1

Craving something crispy and satisfying? These baked falafel balls are a delightful treat! They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor—all while being incredibly easy to make at home.

Perfect for adding to salads, wraps, or enjoying on their own with some tahini sauce, they’re a versatile option for any meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained
– 1/4 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup parsley
– 2 tbsp flour
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, blend chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper until a coarse mixture forms.
3. Add flour and mix until combined, then form into small balls.
4. Place falafel on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve hot with tahini sauce or in pita bread.

– If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more flour.
– Serve with a side of fresh veggies for a full meal!

FAQs:
– Can I fry them instead of baking? Yes, they can be pan-fried for extra crispiness!

Baked Falafel

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:46 PM

9. Vegetable Stir Fry

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 9. Vegetable Stir Fry 1

In need of a quick, colorful meal? This vegetable stir fry is your answer! Packed with your favorite veggies, it’s easy to whip up in no time and incredibly versatile.

This recipe allows you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great option for reducing food waste while enjoying a nutritious dish.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell pepper, carrots)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat; add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes or until tender.
3. Pour in soy sauce and stir well.
4. Serve over rice or noodles.

– Add tofu or tempeh for extra protein!
– Sprinkle with sesame seeds for crunch.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen veggies? Yes! Just adjust the cooking time.

Fun fact: A vegetable stir-fry using on-hand produce can reduce food waste by up to 40% per week. It also keeps vegan recipes cheap while delivering a colorful, nutritious meal in under 20 minutes.

Vegetable Stir Fry

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:46 PM

10. Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 10. Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie 1

Looking for a quick and nutritious way to start your day? This peanut butter banana smoothie is a creamy delight! It’s loaded with protein and healthy fats, making it perfect for breakfast or a snack.

With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious smoothie ready in minutes, giving you the energy boost you need to tackle your day.

Ingredients:
– 2 bananas
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 cups almond milk
– 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bananas, peanut butter, almond milk, and maple syrup.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

– For a protein boost, add a scoop of protein powder.
– Toss in some spinach for extra nutrients without altering the flavor!

FAQs:
– Can I use other nut butters? Yes! Almond or cashew butter are great alternatives.

Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:49 PM

11. Rice and Beans

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 11. Rice and Beans 1

The classic combination of rice and beans is a budget-friendly meal that’s both filling and nutritious. This dish is rich in protein and fiber, making it a staple for many people.

It’s incredibly easy to spice up, providing a variety of flavors to keep it exciting week after week.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 can black or pinto beans, rinsed
– 1 tbsp cumin
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro and lime for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a pot, combine rice, beans, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat over low until warmed through.
3. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

– Add diced tomatoes for a fresh twist!
– This dish is great for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge.

FAQs:
– Can I use leftover rice? Absolutely, it’s a great way to use up what you have!

Fun fact: a rice-and-beans bowl packs about 15 grams of protein per serving and can cost under $2, proving vegan recipes cheap can still be hearty. Spice it up with cumin, garlic, and lime to keep weeknight meals exciting.

Rice and Beans

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:49 PM

12. Zucchini Fritters

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - 12. Zucchini Fritters 1

If you have summer zucchinis on hand, try these crispy zucchini fritters! They are soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, making them a delicious snack or side dish.

They are incredibly easy to make and perfect for a budget-friendly meal option.

Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/4 cup flour
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Squeeze excess moisture from the grated zucchini.
2. In a bowl, combine zucchini, flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
4. Spoon mixture into the pan and flatten slightly; cook until golden brown on both sides.
5. Serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice.

– Serve with a side of avocado or a dollop of vegan yogurt.
– These fritters freeze well for quick meals later!

FAQs:
– Can I add cheese? Vegan cheese can be a great addition!

Zucchini Fritters

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:49 PM

💡

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🥗

BEGINNER

Try Chickpea Curry

Savory Chickpea Curry is a nutritious and affordable dish that’s easy to make and satisfying.

🍝

QUICK WIN

One-Pot Pasta Magic

Whip up a One-Pot Pasta Primavera for a quick, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.

🌮

ESSENTIAL

Lentil Tacos Delight

Use lentils for a budget-friendly taco filling that’s both delicious and high in protein.

🌱

ADVANCED

Baked Falafel Fun

Make Baked Falafel in batches for a protein-packed snack or meal option that freezes well.

🥣

QUICK WIN

Overnight Oats Convenience

Prepare Overnight Oats for a quick, nutritious breakfast that’s ready when you are.

🌶️

PRO TIP

Spice Up Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry is a versatile dish; use whatever veggies are on sale for a budget-friendly meal.

Conclusion

12 Cheap Vegan Recipes for Budget Friendly Meals - Conclusion 1

Eating vegan on a budget doesn’t have to be dull or repetitive. With these 12 cheap vegan recipes, you can whip up meals that are not only affordable but also bursting with flavor. Embrace the colorful world of plant-based eating without breaking the bank!

Whether you’re in a rush or have some time to spare, these easy vegan dishes will keep your taste buds satisfied and your wallet happy. Grab your apron and start cooking these thrifty vegan meals today!

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This post contains Amazon affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best budget-friendly vegan recipes I can make on a student budget?

This article rounds up 12 cheap vegan recipes designed for budget vegan meals that you can whip up with pantry staples.

Think affordable plant-based recipes like bean stews, lentil curries, veggie pasta, and hearty rice bowls that use inexpensive ingredients.

With a focus on easy vegan dishes, you can meal prep a week of lunches for little more than a few dollars per serving.

Start with pantry staples like beans, lentils, oats, rice, carrots, onions, and canned tomatoes to keep inexpensive vegan cooking approachable and tasty.

How can I meal prep affordable plant-based recipes for a busy school week?

Plan ahead by choosing a simple menu and batch cooking on a Sunday.

Build a rotation of budget vegan meals that reheat well, such as bean burritos, chickpea stir-fry with veggies, and lentil soup.

Store portions in individual containers and label them for easy grab-and-go meals.

Freeze extra portions to extend your supply and reduce waste. This approach makes affordable plant-based recipes truly practical for students juggling classes.

What pantry staples help create easy vegan dishes without spending a lot?

Stock up on basics that power thrifty vegan meals—dried beans, lentils, oats, rice, pasta, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, frozen veggies, onions, garlic, and spices.

With these, you can craft quick inexpensive vegan cooking that still tastes great: a bean and veggie chili, lentil bolognese, or veggie fried rice.

Add pantry-friendly proteins like canned chickpeas or tofu to keep things protein-packed without breaking the bank.

Are these easy vegan dishes suitable for beginners and busy students?

Absolutely. The recipes emphasize easy vegan dishes that require minimal equipment and simple techniques.

You can swap in whatever cheap produce is on sale, and most meals come together in 30 minutes or less.

Planning tips, like batch cooking and using single-pot recipes, help you keep inexpensive vegan cooking doable even on a tight schedule.

How should I store and reheat inexpensive vegan cooking for leftovers?

Let meals cool, portion into meal prep containers, and store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer.

Reheat in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep textures lively.

Keeping a few go-to reheating methods ensures your budget vegan meals stay tasty across the week and reduce waste.

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