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    Home » Meal Planning Resources

    50+ Best Cheap Vegan Meals

    Published: Apr 22, 2023 by Nicolette · This post may contain affiliate links. By browsing this website, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of use.

    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!

    Collage of 4 meals.
    TABLE OF CONTENTS show
    1 5 Types of Cheap Meals
    2 Tips for Cooking Cheap Meals
    3 Cheap Vegan Meals to Try
    4 Pasta and Noodle Dishes
    5 Soups and Stews
    6 Rice Dishes
    7 Sandwiches, Wraps and Burgers
    8 33. Vegan Black Bean Burgers
    9 Vegan Buddha Bowls and Stir-Fry Recipes
    10 Meal Planning Resources You Might Like

    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.

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    1. Pasta dishes: Pasta is a budget-friendly meal that can be cooked in a variety of ways with different sauces and toppings.
    2. Soups and stews: Soups and stews are hearty and filling meals that can be made with inexpensive ingredients like beans, lentils, and vegetables.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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

    1. 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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!
    4. 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.
    5. 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.
    6. 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!).
    7. 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

    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

    Bolognese served over pasta in a gray shallow bowl.
    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

    Vegan Taco Soup Recipe

    Bowl of taco soup topped with sour cream, cheese, and cilantro.
    This vegan taco soup is a quick and easy weeknight recipe made from simple ingredients and pantry staples. It's rich in flavor, high in protein (41 grams per serving) 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…
    Check out this recipe

    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

    Bowl of soup topped with chives, pepper, and yogurt.
    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

    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

    Peanut tofu in bowl served over rice with chopsticks.
    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

    Stir fry garnished with peanuts and cilantro in large black cast iron skillet.
    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

    Taco salad bowl garnished with salsa and lime wedges in white bowl.
    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

    Burrito bowl topped with cilantro and creamy sauce.
    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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    Hey! I'm Nicolette. Here you'll find a collection of plant-based recipes that are quick to make, use affordable ingredients, and fit into a busy lifestyle.

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