15 Vegetarian Recipes That Are Easy on the Wallet (2024)

Chef John's Shakshuka

A North African and Middle Eastern specialty, shakshuka is an easy way to dress up eggs and veggies. Peppers, onions, and tomatoes cook down into a vibrant sauce before getting topped with eggs and a sprinkling of feta. This is great for breakfast or dinner.

Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Instead of the goopy mayo-based pasta salad you'd expect at a picnic, this version is light and refreshing with a Mediterranean twist. Each bite is packed with flavor thanks to black olives, red bell peppers, and feta.

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Addictive Sweet Potato Burritos

Sweet potato and kidney beans may seem like an odd combo, but reviewers swear by this vegetarian burrito recipe. As a bonus, these freeze well, so you can make a big batch for future meals to save money on ordering takeout.

Lentil Soup

Packed with cheap ingredients like lentils, carrots, and spinach, this veggie-filled soup will keep you full and warm while being light on your wallet. Follow recipe creator Bob Cody's advice and eat it with a piece of cornbread for sopping up any extra broth.

Gnocchi

The simple combination of potatoes, flour, and eggs creates wonderfully tender gnocchi. Make a batch and toss with your favorite red sauce or mix in with pesto.

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Vegetarian Chickpea Sandwich Filling

Chickpeas take the place of chicken or tuna in this salad recipe. Mayonnaise adds a hint of creaminess, while dill and onion create a fresh burst of flavor.

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Homemade Veggie Pizza

Before you pick up the phone to order delivery, consider baking this easy homemade pizza instead. "This has become my go-to recipe for pizza dough and sauce," says reviewer Eva. "I always mix up the veggies and cheeses, but definitely a keeper for my family."

Three-Bean Vegetarian Chili

A trio of beans — black beans, chickpeas, and kidney beans — are the foundation for this flavorful chili recipe. Dress it up with a sprinkling of cheese plus a dollop of sour cream, and dinner is served.

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Stuffed Peppers My Way

Featuring a blend of rice, feta cheese, and Italian seasonings, these bell peppers pack a punch of flavor. You can also use red or yellow bell peppers for a different flavor, but green is the cheapest variety.

Delicious Black Bean Burritos

These extra rich burritos are stuffed with black beans, cream cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño. "These were amazing, we cooked them up for Cinco de Mayo, and my fiancé won't stop talking about how good they were," says reviewer Tina.

Sweet Potato, Carrot, Apple, and Red Lentil Soup

This recipe is the ultimate fall soup. Each bite is an array of flavors thanks to sweet potatoes, apples, carrots, and red lentils. As a bonus these are all budget-friendly ingredients, especially during fall when everything is in season.

Lo Mein Noodles

Much cheaper than takeout, and even tastier too, this homemade lo mein can be as dressed up or dressed down as you want. Toss in the suggested carrots and celery, or whatever veggies you have on hand in the crisper.

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Samosadilla (Samosa Quesadilla)

Potatoes are perfect budget-friendly pantry staples, and this recipe uses plenty of them. Take all the flavors of a samosa and pair them with the ease of making a quesadilla.

Portobello Mushroom Stroganoff

This stick-to-your-ribs meal features earthy portobello mushrooms in a rich cream sauce. Serve over traditional egg noodles or whatever pasta you have on hand.

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Mexican Bean Burgers

Buying pre-made frozen veggie burgers can get expensive, so whip up a batch of these homemade patties instead. Top with your favorite burger fixin's, or take it south of the border with a dollop of sour cream and fresh avocado.

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