If you’re looking for delicious cheap vegan meal ideas, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, I’m sharing some of the best cheap vegan meals that you can make at home without breaking the bank. From hearty pastas and soups to flavorful stir-fry dishes, these recipes are not only budget-friendly, but easy to prepare with minimal ingredients. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
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5 Types of Cheap Meals
To keep these recipes organized, I’ve organized them into 5 categories. These meals are some of the most affordable you can make and can help you lower your grocery bill every month by hundreds of dollars.
- Pasta dishes: Pasta is a budget-friendly meal that can be cooked in a variety of ways with different sauces and toppings.
- Soups and stews: Soups and stews are hearty and filling meals that can be made with inexpensive ingredients like beans, lentils, and vegetables.
- Rice dishes: Rice is one of the most affordable and versatile ingredients that can be used to make a variety of dishes like fried rice, risotto, paella, and rice pilaf.
- Sandwiches and wraps: Sandwiches and wraps are quick and easy meals that can be made with a variety of cheap vegan fillings. You can never go wrong with a simple peanut butter and jelly.
- Stir-fry dishes and Buddha bowls: Stir-fry dishes are a great way to use up leftover vegetables and can be made with a variety of proteins like tofu, tempeh, or seitan.
Tips for Cooking Cheap Meals
- Shop your own pantry first: Before heading to the grocery store, take a look in your pantry, fridge, and freezer to see what ingredients you already have on hand. This will help you avoid buying unnecessary items and make use of what you already have.
- Plan your meals: Planning your meals for the week can help you stay organized and avoid buying too much food. Look for recipes that use similar ingredients, so you can buy in bulk and save money.
- Buy in-season produce: Buying fruits and vegetables that are in season is not only cheaper but also more flavorful and nutritious. Check out your local farmer’s market or grocery store flyer for deals on seasonal produce. New deals at grocery stores usually come out every Wednesday!
- Buy in bulk: Buying staples like rice, beans, lentils and pasta in bulk can save you money in the long run. Look for discounts at bulk stores like Costco or Sam’s Club or purchase larger packages at regular grocery stores.
- Use canned or frozen fruits and vegetables: Canned or frozen fruits and vegetables are often cheaper than fresh produce and often just as nutritious. They are also convenient since they have a longer shelf life and can be used in a variety of recipes.
- Make your own plant-based milk and cheese: Plant-based milk and cheese can be expensive, but they are easy to make at home with ingredients like nuts, seeds, and oats (my personal favorite!).
- Get creative with leftovers: Don’t let leftovers go to waste! Turn them into new meals by adding fresh ingredients or repurposing them into different dishes. Check out the Buddha bowls section below for inspiration on pairing flavors together.
Now use these tips and the recipe ideas below to cook delicious vegan meals on a budget.
And for more meal planning inspiration, check out my free vegan meal plans.
Cheap Vegan Meals to Try
Pasta and Noodle Dishes
1. 10 Minute Peanut Noodles
10 Minute Peanut Noodles by From My Bowl
These easy 10 Minute Peanut Noodles are tossed in a delicious peanut sauce and served while warm and creamy. They’re wholesome, comforting, and my favorite last minute dinner! Vegan, Gluten-free option, Oil-free option. These Peanut Noodles are made with your favorite noodles, a few simple sauce ing…
Check out this recipe
2. One-Pot Pasta
15-Minute One-Pot Pasta by Sweet Simple Vegan
This One-Pot Pasta is the fuss-free, easy dinner that’ll save the day on busy weeknights! It’s easy to make, packed with fresh flavors and made with 10 simple ingredients in just 15 minutes.
Check out this recipe
3. Vegan Tofu Bolognese
Vegan Tofu Bolognese Sauce
This vegan tofu bolognese sauce is so flavorful yet so quick and simple! All you need is 10 ingredients and 30 minutes.
Check out this recipe
4. Pasta with Lentils
Pasta with Lentils by The Clever Meal
This Italian pasta with lentils is the best nourishing meals you can cook using cupboard staples such as dried lentils and pasta. Healthy, cheap, delicious!
Check out this recipe
5. Cauliflower Alfredo
Cauliflower Alfredo by Feel Good Foodie
Cauliflower Alfredo sauce is a creamy vegan, gluten-free, nut-free homemade Alfredo sauce with less fat & less calories as compared with the original recipe
Check out this recipe
6. Creamy Vegan Lemon Pasta
Vegan Lemon Asparagus Pasta by Eat with Clarity
This creamy vegan lemon pasta is an easy high protein dinner that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s ready in 20 minutes!
Check out this recipe
7. Garlic Sesame Noodles
Easy Garlic Sesame Noodles by Eat With Clarity
Noodles are a girls best friend and these garlic sesame noodles are no doubt my favorite recipe to date and they’re both vegan & gluten free!
Check out this recipe
8. Vegan Broccoli and Pepper Ramen Noodles
Easy Vegan Broccoli and Pepper Ramen Noodles by Make it Dairy Free
This easy vegan broccoli and pepper ramen noodles are a budget friendly vegan meal that is great for lunch or dinner. Instant noodle recipe.
Check out this recipe
9. Vegan Baked Ziti
Vegan Baked Ziti by Running on Real Food
This easy vegan baked ziti is made with ziti and vegetables in tomato sauce, topped with homemade tofu ricotta and baked to perfection.
Check out this recipe
10. Vegan Lo Mein
Vegan Lo Mein by Running on Real Food
This vegan noodle dish is inspired by veggie lo mein! Try this quick and easy 30-minute recipe for a delicious dinner any night of the week.
Check out this recipe
Soups and Stews
11. Creamy Lentil Vegetable Soup
Creamy Lentil Vegetable Soup by Budget Bytes
This Creamy Lentil Vegetable Soup is a medley of colors, flavors, and textures all in a hearty and inexpensive bowl. It’s vegan, too!
Check out this recipe
12. Vegan Split Pea Soup
Vegan Split Pea Soup by Budget Bytes
This vegan split pea soup is fast, easy, and comforting. It’s the perfect cozy meal for chilly fall and winter days.
Check out this recipe
13. Cabbage Soup
Cabbage Soup Recipe by Budget Bytes
Forget the cabbage soup diet, you’ll want to eat this super healthy vegetable-filled cabbage soup just because it tastes incredible!
Check out this recipe
14. Black Bean Soup
Instant Pot Black Bean Soup (10 Ingredients!) by From My Bowl
This Instant Pot Black Bean Soup is healthy, hearty, and easy to make! It’s perfect for Meal Prep and freezes well. All you need is 10 plant-based ingredients, an Instant Pot, and an empty stomach.
Check out this recipe
15. Vegan Taco Soup
Healthy Crockpot Taco Soup Recipe
This Healthy Crockpot Taco Soup recipe is a quick and easy weeknight meal made from simple ingredients and pantry staples. It's rich in flavor, high in protein, and easy to customize to suit your family's taste buds. Throw the ingredients in your crockpot tonight and set it and forget it!
Check out this recipe
16. Sopa de Fideo (Mexican Noodle Soup)
20-Minute Sopa de Fideo (Mexican Noodle Soup) by From My Bowl
This Sopa de Fideo is a comforting Mexican Noodle soup made with fideo pasta, tomato broth, and simple aromatics. Oil-free option. This Sopa de Fideo recipe is made in just 20 minutes, in one-pot, with only 8 plant-based ingredients. This flavorful Mexican noodle soup recipe is everything you’re loo…
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17. 5-Ingredient Vegan Chili
5-Ingredient Vegan Chili by Sweet Simple Vegan
Learn how to make this 5-ingredient vegan chili with just 1 pot and less than 30 minutes of your time. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and easy!
Check out this recipe
18. Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew
Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew by Minimalist Baker
Cozy, hearty, and comforting — what more could you ask for in a winter meal? Easy, too? You’ve got it! This 1-pot white bean and mushroom stew is all that
Check out this recipe
19. Vegan Leek & Potato Soup
Vegan Leek and Potato Soup
This Vegan Leek and Potato Soup only requires 7 healthy ingredients, one pot and less than an hour! It's ultra creamy, oil-free, and gluten free. Make this soup in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop for the best creamy comfort food!
Check out this recipe
20. Vegan Sweet Potato Stew
Vegan Sweet Potato Stew by Make it Dairy Free
Vegan Sweet Potato Stew is the perfect easy, fall vegan dinner idea. Ready in 30 minutes and completely Top 8 Allergen Free.
Check out this recipe
Rice Dishes
21. Butternut Squash & Brown Rice Casserole (Dump & Bake)
Butternut Squash & Brown Rice Casserole (Dump & Bake) by From My Bowl
This Butternut Squash & Brown Rice Casserole is packed w/ seasonal veggies, brown rice, & white beans for a well-balanced vegan meal!
Check out this recipe
22. Vegan Fried Rice
Vegan Fried Rice by Nora Cooks
This Vegan Fried Rice is better than take out and ready in 20 minutes! A great way to use up leftover rice and the perfect weeknight dinner.
Check out this recipe
23. Coconut Chickpea Curry
Chickpea Coconut Curry by Vegan Richa
Vegan Chickpea Coconut Curry – Instant Pot or Saucepan. 1 Pot Coconut Chickpea Curry made w/ dried chickpeas, coconut milk.Glutenfree Tomatofree Nutfree Soyfree Recipe
Check out this recipe
24. Instant Pot Rice and Beans
Instant Pot Rice and Beans by A Mind Full Mom
The EASIEST way to prepare red beans and rice! Made with brown rice, dried beans, and a perfect combination of seasonings.
Check out this recipe
25. Enchilada Rice
Enchilada Rice (Quick + Easy Recipe) by The Simple Veganista
Enchilada Rice is a tasty Mexican inspired recipe featuring veggies, black beans, rice and enchilada sauce! Instant Pot + stovetop methods. Vegan recipe.
Check out this recipe
26. Crispy Peanut Tofu
30 Minute Crispy Peanut Tofu
Easy vegetarian and vegan crispy peanut tofu. Sweet, spicy and tangy! Satisfies that takeout itch but is so much better in every way.
Check out this recipe
27. Instant Pot Kitchari
Instant Pot Kitchari Recipe by Vegan Richa
Learn how to make Kitchari in your Instant Pot – a traditional ayurvedic recipe for easy vegan basmati rice with red lentils and spices
Check out this recipe
28. Vegan Japanese Curry
Vegan Japanese Curry by Sweet Simple Vegan
This Vegan Japanese Curry is thickened with a curry roux, made with hearty vegetables, and lightly sweetened with grated apple.
Check out this recipe
29. Tofu Edamame Buddha Bowl
Tofu Edamame Buddha Bowl by Running on Real Food
These colourful vegan rice bowls feature tofu, edamame, brown rice, cabbage, carrot and delicious almond satay sauce. Enjoy for a filling, flavourful and nutritious plant-based meal.
Check out this recipe
30. Sweet Potato Lentil Curry
Sweet Potato Lentil Curry by Running on Real Food
This creamy coconut and sweet potato lentil curry is easy to make in 40 minutes, full of flavour and perfect for warming up on a cold day.
Check out this recipe
Sandwiches, Wraps and Burgers
31. Buffalo Chickpea Wraps
Buffalo Chickpea Wraps by Food Sharing Vegan
This Buffalo Chickpea Wrap is a super simple and flavor-packed meal that is incredibly easy to put together! It’s great on the go, even as a quick snack, or post workout meal. Enjoy!
Check out this recipe
32. Vegan Tofu Egg Salad
Vegan Tofu Egg Salad by Sweet Simple Vegan
This Vegan Tofu Egg Salad is perfect for quick lunches and high-protein vegan meal prep. Make in just 5 minutes with 10 simple ingredients.
Check out this recipe
33. Vegan Black Bean Burgers
Vegan Black Bean Burgers by Sweet Simple Vegan
These Easy Vegan Black Bean Burgers are made with only 5 pantry staple ingredients, yet are guaranteed to satisfy any burger craving.
Check out this recipe
34. Sweet Potato Black Bean Burger
Chickpea Burger by Nora Cooks
This Chickpea Burger is so delicious and easy to make, no one will miss the meat! Ready in less than 30 minutes.
Check out this recipe
35. Vegan Black Bean Burrito
Best Black Bean Vegan Burrito Recipe by Namely Marly
This easy Crispy Black Bean Burrito recipe is made with brown rice, potatoes, corn, and salsa. Served in a crispy burrito shell!
Check out this recipe
36. Vegan Sloppy Joes
Vegan Sloppy Joes by Minimalist Baker
Hearty, flavorful Vegan Sloppy Joes made with fresh, simple ingredients, naturally sweetened, and they require just 30 minutes! Savory, smoky, perfectly sweet — a delicious plant-based meal!
Check out this recipe
37. Vegan Cheesy Potato Burritos
Vegan Cheesy Potato Burritos by Make it Dairy Free
These super easy vegan cheesy potato burritos pairs deliciously seasoned roasted potatoes, with cilantro lime rice and our vegan nacho cheese sauce.
Check out this recipe
38. Crunchy BBQ Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Crunchy BBQ Chickpea Salad Sandwich by Veggie Fun Kitchen
Made with canned chickpeas, mayo, BBQ sauce, red onion, packaged coleslaw, and panko bread crumbs. This BBQ Chickpea Salad Sandwich is quick and easy.
Check out this recipe
39. Vegan Meatball Sub Sandwich
Vegan Meatball Sub Sandwich by Veggies Don’t Bite
This vegan meatball sub is the ultimate comfort food! It’s filled with protein, has hidden veggies and is easy to freeze and pull out for those busy nights!
Check out this recipe
40. Spicy Lentil Wraps with Tahini Sauce
Spicy Quinoa-Lentil Wraps + Tahini Sauce by The Simple Veganista
Spicy Quinoa-Lentil Wraps are a Trader Joe’s copycat recipe and perfect for lunch, dinner or make ahead meals! Vegan and gluten-free.
Check out this recipe
Vegan Buddha Bowls and Stir-Fry Recipes
41. Quick Teriyaki Tofu Stir Fry
Quick Teriyaki Tofu Stir Fry by Food Sharing Vegan
This Vegan Teriyaki Tofu Stir Fry is the perfect quick mid-week meal that you can enjoy in just 20 minutes! It’s packed with plant protein, tons of flavor, and healthy veggies!
Check out this recipe
42. Frozen Vegetable Stir Fry
Frozen Vegetable Stir Fry by Nora Cooks
Frozen Vegetable Stir Fry is an effortless one-pan, 20-minute meal. All you need are pre-cut frozen vegetables, my homemade stir fry sauce, and some rice!
Check out this recipe
43. Peanut Noodle Stir Fry
Spicy Vegan Peanut Noodle Stir Fry
This Vegan Peanut Noodle Stir Fry is a great takeout style dish that takes just 30 minutes to make and is made with the easy at home vegan peanut sauce. All you need is 11 ingredients, including udon noodles, soy curls, shredded cabbage and carrots.
Check out this recipe
44. Falafel Bowl
Falafel Bowl by Feasting at Home
How to create a delicious Falafel Bowl! Loaded up with veggies,grain of choice, olives, herbs and greens, with Tahini Sauce.
Check out this recipe
45. Vegan Taco Salad
Vegan Taco Salad with Tempeh
This Vegan Taco Salad is inspired by the Southwestern Tex-Mex flavors in the Santa Fe Salad. Crispy romaine lettuce, black beans, cherry tomatoes, corn, crushed tortilla chips, and tempeh taco meat all drizzled with the best creamy, vegan taco salad dressing. Try this recipe for easy vegan meal prep or quick weeknight dinners!
Check out this recipe
46. Vegan Burrito Bowl
Easy Vegan Burrito Bowl
Vegan Burrito Bowls with Roasted Sweet Potato and Creamy Jalapeno Dill Sauce! Great for meal prep and easy weeknight dinners!
Check out this recipe
47. Dijon Garlic Veggies & Chickpeas
Dijon Garlic Sheet Pan Veggies & Chickpeas by From My Bowl
These Sheet Pan Veggies & Chickpeas are tossed in a quick and easy dijon garlic marinade, then roasted until crispy.
Check out this recipe
48. Vegan BBQ Bean Bowl with Corn & Coleslaw
BBQ Bean Bowl with Corn and Coleslaw by Minimalist Baker
A vegan BBQ bowl with smoky BBQ baked beans, creamy coleslaw, and grilled corn or cornbread! A hearty, flavorful, protein- and fiber-rich entrée!
Check out this recipe
49. Vegan Loaded Mashed Potato Bowls
Vegan Loaded Mashed Potato Bowls by Jar of Lemons
Vegan loaded mashed potato bowls! So delicious and perfect for holiday leftovers. Vegetarian and gluten free, also. Grab the recipe on Jar Of Lemons!
Check out this recipe
50. Roasted Vegetable & Quinoa Harvest Bowls
Roasted Vegetable & Quinoa Harvest Bowls by Minimalist Baker
Hearty and flavorful harvest bowls with roasted vegetables, quinoa, and a creamy, 3-ingredient tahini dressing! A healthy, plant-based, gluten-free meal!
Check out this recipe
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