What's for Dinner? 10 Budget Meals

Yes, for less than the price of a large pie from the local pizza place, you can put a fresh, satisfying dinner for four on the table. The secret is to rely on affordable proteins -- chicken legs, ground chuck, sausage, canned beans or tuna -- then update some favorites from the weeknight repertoire. The results are hearty, full meals that will never leave you feeling shortchanged.

Chicken legs are one of our favorite proteins; they're economical, flavorful, and extemely versatile. Here they play nicely with store-bought sauerkraut for a rich, flavorful casserole.

This deliciously filling soup uses both canned chickpeas and canned kidney beans, and comes together in just 25 minutes. Toasted bread is a must -- to soak up the tasty broth.

For a very filling family dinner, try this update on tomatoey Spanish (or Mexican) rice, using ground chuck and eggs.

Ultimate comfort food? We gave the dish that everyone loves a makeover. All the good things remain, but we add cauliflower and make the sauce from scratch (which isn't hard and doesn't take long). The result is divine.

Substantial and super-fast, this pasta dish has much appeal. It stretches a small amount of sausage by also using chickpeas -- and plenty of kale.

Watch how to make this fast, cheap, and totally satisfying weeknight pasta dinner.

Quick and easy to make, these bean burgers are so good even dedicated carnivores will adore them. Serving them with avocado adds to their rich appeal -- or maybe you prefer cheese?

Watch how to make these amazing burgers.

Yes, meat and potatoes -- here with carrots and mushrooms too -- in a comforting, mash-topped pie.

Not only are these zucchini inexpensive to make and good to eat, you can assemble them a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake them the next night.