Easy weeknight meals on a budget are possible. We've rounded up our favorite cheap dinner ideas that everyone will love without breaking the bank.
1/68
Inside-Out Stuffed Cabbage
From the Recipe Creator:
Preparing stuffed cabbage rolls can be time-consuming, but this version with butternut squash has the classic flavors —and it’s table-ready in just 30 minutes. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 382 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 841mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 7g fiber), 25g protein.
When you don’t have enough time to prepare classic stuffed cabbage, try this deconstructed version with butternut squash instead. Save prep time by using already cubed squash, and it can be table-ready in 30 minutes!
2/68
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a real sensation: Asian-style slow-cooker chicken thighs and rice. They always go over big with my family. —Gigi Miller, Stoughton, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked chicken with 1/3 cup sauce: 342 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 958mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 0 fiber), 33g protein.
3/68
Slow-Cooker Beef Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
When there's a chill in the air, nothing beats this beef stew. Seasoned with thyme and dry mustard, the hearty slow-cooker beef stew is chock-full of tender carrots, potatoes and meat. —Earnestine Wilson, Waco, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 272 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 541mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
4/68
Easy Tamale Pie with Peppers
From the Recipe Creator:
My family loves anything with southwestern flavor, so this recipe is a big hit. It's super quick and easy to prepare, and cleanup afterward is fast because everything cooks in one dish. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 439 calories, 25g fat (9g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 1152mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 23g protein.
5/68
Pasta Fagioli Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband enjoys my version of this soup so much that he stopped ordering it at restaurants. He’d rather savor the version we can have at home. It’s so easy to make, yet hearty enough to be a full dinner. —Brenda Thomas, Springfield, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 228 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 841mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 6g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
6/68
Cheeseburger Cups
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a terrific recipe for moms with young kids and busy lives. This simple, inexpensive dish is made with handy ingredients and takes just a short time. Best of all, kids will go crazy for these darling dinner bites! —Jeri Millhouse, Ashland, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cheeseburger cup: 299 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 910mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
7/68
Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
Stovetop chicken and gnocchi recipes like this one make for a homey dinner in a hurry. Personalize it with your own favorite sauce and seasonings. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups (calculated without cheese): 598 calories, 24g fat (6g saturated fat), 88mg cholesterol, 1632mg sodium, 66g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 6g fiber), 30g protein.
Also, for dinner tonight, whip up one of our quick and delicious chicken tenderloin recipes. You’ll have a meal on the table in no time!
8/68
Chicken and Broccoli with Dill Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
I've had this chicken and broccoli recipe for so many years, I don't remember when I first made it. Serve it with a side of couscous or rice for a complete meal, or add some sliced mushrooms or carrots for extra veggies. —Kallee Krong-Mccreery, Escondido, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 274 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 620mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 39g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
9/68
Enchilada Pasta
From the Recipe Creator:
I love this cozy dish because it is ready in 30 minutes and is full of healthy ingredients—it has everything a busy weeknight meal calls for. —Nora Rušhev, Reitnau, Switzerland
Nutrition Facts:
1-3/4 cups: 444 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 1289mg sodium, 84g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 8g fiber), 18g protein.
10/68
Pizza on a Stick
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter and her friends had fun turning sausage, pepperoni, veggies and pizza dough into these cute kabobs. —Charlene Woods, Norfolk, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
2 kabobs with 1/4 cup sauce: 429 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 1337mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 3g fiber), 26g protein.
11/68
Vegetarian Skillet Enchiladas
From the Recipe Creator:
Whether served for Meatless Monday or your family's everyday vegetarian meal, these unconventional enchiladas will leave everyone asking for more. —Susan Court, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 307 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 839mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 7g fiber), 14g protein.
12/68
Bacon Pasta
From the Recipe Creator:
As children, we always requested this dish for our birthday dinners. Our mother got the recipe from her grandmother. Now I pass on our tasty tradition. —Ruth Keogh, North St. Paul, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 159 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 498mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
13/68
Wisconsin Butter Burgers
From the Recipe Creator:
It’s no secret that Wisconsinites love their dairy—so much that they sometimes top their burgers with a generous pat of butter. My recipe is a lot like the butter burgers you’ll find in popular restaurants all over the state. —Becky Carver, North Royalton, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 400 calories, 21g fat (10g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 543mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein.
14/68
Blue Plate Open-Faced Turkey Sandwich
From the Recipe Creator:
Turkey with gravy makes divine comfort food that reminds me of old-time diners on the East Coast that serve open faced turkey sandwiches just like this one. Happily, my gravy is not from a can. —Chris Schwester, Divide, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
2 open-faced sandwiches: 361 calories, 14g fat (7g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 1462mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
15/68
Deconstructed Pear Pork Chops
From the Recipe Creator:
You’ll be tempted to eat this main dish right out of the pan but try to resist. These chops are sure to wow guests at the dinner table. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop with 3/4 cup stuffing mixture: 603 calories, 28g fat (14g saturated fat), 127mg cholesterol, 1094mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 5g fiber), 38g protein.
16/68
Enchilada Casser-Ole!
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband loves this casserole, so it never lasts too long in our house. Packed with black beans, cheese, tomatoes and southwestern flavor, it's an impressive-looking entree that's as simple as it is delicious. —Marsha Wills, Homosassa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 357 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 864mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
17/68
Ham & Zucchini Italiano
From the Recipe Creator:
I strongly believe dinner should be three things: healthy, delicious and simple. With fresh zucchini, ham and marinara sauce baked with mozzarella, you can accomplish all three in the time it takes to describe the dish to a grateful family. —Madison Mayberry, Ames, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 196 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 1013mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 17g protein.
18/68
Corn Quesadilla
From the Recipe Creator:
My cheesy corn quesadillas take only minutes going from skillet to table. They make craveable leftovers for brown-bag lunches, so pack the salsa too. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
3 wedges (calculated without guacamole): 380 calories, 19g fat (10g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 524mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 16g protein.
19/68
Baked Chicken Parmesan
From the Recipe Creator:
Saucy chicken, melty mozzarella and crisp-tender broccoli—all in one pan. What could be better? —Becky Hardin, St. Peters, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 504 calories, 17g fat (7g saturated fat), 147mg cholesterol, 1151mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 8g fiber), 52g protein.
20/68
Fruit-Glazed Pork Chops
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a fast and simple way to grill chops in half an hour. Other fruit preserves can be easily substituted. These are also nice broiled in the oven. —Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop: 336 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 446mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 0 fiber), 35g protein.
21/68
Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Relax after work with a cold drink while this savory chicken marinates in an herby tomato blend for an hour, then toss it on the grill. It tastes just like summer. —Laura Lunardi, West Chester, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 177 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 171mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
22/68
Au Gratin Sausage Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
Using frozen vegetables and a package of au gratin potatoes, I can get this satisfying stovetop supper on the table in no time. Even our oldest daughter, who can be a picky eater, loves it—and it is an excellent way of getting her to eat her vegetables. —Penny Greene, Lancaster, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 660 calories, 47g fat (18g saturated fat), 106mg cholesterol, 2093mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein.
23/68
Pierogi Beef Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
Hearty and thick with beef, veggies and potatoes, this is a complete meal in one. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1-3/4 cups: 654 calories, 31g fat (12g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 1157mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 7g fiber), 34g protein.
24/68
Lemon Garlic Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
You'll be amazed that you can make this simple, elegant pasta in mere minutes. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up all of the garlic lemon sauce. —Athena Russell, Greenville, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 163 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 284mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
25/68
Pizza Sandwich
From the Recipe Creator:
I give grilled cheese a special treatment by using slices of mozzarella cheese and adding delicious extras like pepperoni and fresh tomatoes. Dipped in warm pizza sauce, this will be a fast favorite! —Mary Monaco, Columbus, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 495 calories, 31g fat (16g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 1121mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.
26/68
Orange-Spiced Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Five ingredients are all you’ll need for this fast and extremely flavorful marinade. With one taste, it’ll become your most-requested chicken recipe! —Debra Stevens, Lutz, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half: 234 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 643mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 0 fiber), 30g protein.
27/68
Pepperoni Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
Here is a fast recipe that always goes over well at my house. Each bite has gooey melted cheese and real pizza flavor. Try serving them with pizza sauce for dipping. —Debra Purcell, Safford, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
2 roll-ups: 282 calories, 17g fat (5g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 766mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein.
28/68
Pressure Cooker Rigatoni with Sausage & Peas
From the Recipe Creator:
With a tomatoey meat sauce and tangy goat cheese, this weeknight wonder is my version of comfort food. You want to have bowl after bowl. —Lizzie Munro, Brooklyn, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-2/3 cups: 563 calories, 28g fat (12g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 802mg sodium, 60g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 7g fiber), 23g protein.
29/68
Fried Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Always a picnic favorite, this deep-fried chicken recipe is delicious either hot or cold. Kids call it my Kentucky Fried Chicken! —Jeanne Schnitzler, Lima, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked chicken: 543 calories, 33g fat (7g saturated fat), 137mg cholesterol, 798mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 41g protein.
30/68
Spicy Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this easy skillet dish to use up the boil-in-a-bag rice in my cabinet. The result packs a lot of flavor. —Sonali Ruder, New York, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 461 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 1816mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 35g protein.
31/68
Cheesy Ham & Potato Packet
From the Recipe Creator:
I found the technique for grilling ham, potatoes and cheese in foil and changed the recipe for our tastes. It’s a dandy way to use leftover ham. —Molly Bishop, McClure, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 341 calories, 13 g fat (6 g saturated fat), 70 mg cholesterol, 1040 mg sodium, 32 g carbohydrate (4 g sugars, 4 g fiber), 26 g protein.
32/68
Creole Shrimp and Sausage
From the Recipe Creator:
Add diversity to weeknight meals and get a taste of low-country cuisine with this simple take on a Louisiana Creole classic that uses bulgur instead of rice. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups sausage mixture with 1/2 cup bulgur: 510 calories, 19g fat (7g saturated fat), 108mg cholesterol, 1287mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 15g fiber), 30g protein.
33/68
Chili Hash
From the Recipe Creator:
A little micro time, a dash in the pan and you'll have a satisfying meal for those 'where-did-the-time-go?' kind of nights. Now you can put up your feet and relax! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 431 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 1012mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 9g fiber), 29g protein.
34/68
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
From the Recipe Creator:
The slow cooker not only makes this an easy meal, it keeps the pork tender, saucy and loaded with flavor. —Beki Kosydar-Krantz, Mayfield, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 402 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1181mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 2g fiber), 29g protein.
35/68
Chicken & Spanish Cauliflower “Rice”
From the Recipe Creator:
I learned about the paleo diet from some friends who now have tons of energy and are super fit. Since then, I’ve changed my eating habits, too. Everyone from my dad to my little nephew loves this chicken in Spanish cauliflower rice. —Megan Schmoldt, Westminster, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 227 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 492mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
36/68
Steak & New Potato Toss
From the Recipe Creator:
I usually use leftover barbecued steak to make this fabulous main dish salad. It's pretty, too, with the red pepper, green broccoli and white potatoes. —Deyanne Davies, Rossland, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 411 calories, 21g fat (5g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 83mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 31g protein.
37/68
Peppered Pork Pitas
From the Recipe Creator:
Believe it: Cracked black pepper is all it takes to give my pork pitas some pop. With these, any weeknight meal is awesome. I like to fill them with caramelized onions and garlic mayo. —Katherine White, Henderson, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 380 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 665mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 fat.
38/68
Citrus-Mustard Roasted Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Tender roast chicken is an elegant dish that's easy to make. We love the tang of orange and lemon slices and the subtle heat from mustard. —Debra Keil, Owasso, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 537 calories, 37g fat (8g saturated fat), 131mg cholesterol, 156mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 44g protein.
39/68
Balsamic Pork Chops
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband loves pork chops, so I try to find new ways to use them. He calls this version "restaurant quality!" —Nicole Clayton, Prescott, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop with 3 tablespoons sauce: 715 calories, 41g fat (17g saturated fat), 169mg cholesterol, 557mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (40g sugars, 1g fiber), 46g protein.
40/68
Tasty Onion Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
The secret to this French onion chicken is the yummy, crunchy coating that keeps the meat juicy and tender. Round out your meal with green beans and buttermilk biscuits. —Jennifer Hoeft, Thorndale, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half: 460 calories, 36g fat (18g saturated fat), 124mg cholesterol, 449mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein.
41/68
Margarita Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Marinated in flavors of garlic and lime, this tangy margarita chicken is ready to go whenever the coals are hot! Serve with roasted corn on the cob and lemonade. —Kelly Bruneman, Cedar Park, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half: 250 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 0 fiber), 34g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 starch.
42/68
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
From the Recipe Creator:
These winning chicken rolls, with their crunchy cornflake crust, are so easy to fix but look like I fussed. My family and friends absolutely love them! —Lisa Keys, Middlebury, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 270 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 764mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 37g protein.
43/68
Golombki
From the Recipe Creator:
Tender cabbage rolls are stuffed with a delicious mixture of ground beef and onion. Instant rice and canned tomato soup speed along the prep work, and the long oven time gives you a chance to whip up a side dish and pour the wine. —Valerie Lipinski, Buffalo, New York
Nutrition Facts:
2 cabbage rolls: 342 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 1030mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 6g fiber), 21g protein.
44/68
Rigatoni with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Rich and buttery cream sauce coats pasta and sweet potatoes in this impressive entree. Walnuts and wine give the dish special flavor, while sage offers just the right seasoning. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 626 calories, 42g fat (19g saturated fat), 97mg cholesterol, 518mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 6g fiber), 10g protein.
45/68
Gnocchi Alfredo
From the Recipe Creator:
This gnocchi is one of my go-to's for company and potlucks. It’s pure comfort food, especially in the wintertime. —Jessica Silva, East Berlin, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup gnocchi mixture with 1/3 cup sauce: 529 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 996mg sodium, 81g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 5g fiber), 19g protein.
46/68
Potato-Sausage Foil Packs
From the Recipe Creator:
We had these smoky campfire bundles at a friend's house for dinner and loved the simplicity of this great summer meal. Now we often make it for summer weeknight dinners. —Alissa Keith, Forest, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 344 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 990mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 6g fiber), 21g protein.
47/68
Black Bean Burrito
From the Recipe Creator:
My neighbor and I discovered these delicious low-fat burritos a few years ago. On nights my husband or I have a meeting, we can have a satisfying supper on the table in minutes. —Angela Studebaker, Goshen, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito: 395 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 610mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 7g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
48/68
Jalapeno Popper Quesadillas
From the Recipe Creator:
Jalapeno poppers stuffed inside quesadillas are a simple and fast solution when you’re too busy to cook. If you like recipes with heat, this one’s for you. —Rebecca Nisewonder, Richmond, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 quesadilla: 801 calories, 47g fat (23g saturated fat), 115mg cholesterol, 1423mg sodium, 60g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 33g protein.
49/68
White Bean and Sausage Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
In the cold months, I like to put on a big pot of this comforting soup. It cooks away while I do other things, such as baking bread, crafting or even cleaning the house. —Glenna Reimer, Gig Harbor, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 339 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 1100mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 11g fiber), 19g protein.
50/68
Bean & Bacon Griddle Burritos
From the Recipe Creator:
These griddle burritos with bacon and veggies make an awesome hand-held meal. I use fresh pico de gallo when I can, but a jar of salsa works if that’s what you’ve got. —Stacy Mullens, Gresham, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito: 375 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 1133mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 8g fiber), 18g protein.
51/68
Sausage & Spinach Calzones
From the Recipe Creator:
These comforting calzones are perfect for quick meals—or even midnight snacks. My nurse co-workers always ask me to make them when it's my turn to bring in lunch. —Kourtney Williams, Mechanicsville, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 calzone: 489 calories, 22g fat (9g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 1242mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 23g protein.
52/68
Meat and Potato Patties
From the Recipe Creator:
During World War II, when meat was rationed and had to be purchased with tokens, this recipe went a long way in feeding a family. To this day, I still reach for it whenever I want something different from regular hamburgers. By the way, children really like these (just as I did when I was a child!).— Gladys Klein, Burlington Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 patty: 237 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 99mg cholesterol, 373mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein.
53/68
Sausage Sweet Potato Sheet-Pan Dinner
From the Recipe Creator:
This foolproof weeknight dinner is naturally gluten free and is on your table in no time! You can easily adapt the recipe to use seasonal fruits or veggies. —Melissa Erdelac, Valparaiso, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 533 calories, 29g fat (8g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 912mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 8g fiber), 15g protein.
54/68
Chorizo Bowl
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm always on the hunt for fast and filling meals. Chicken sausage makes an awesome one-dish dinner by itself or served with brown rice in a burrito. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 425 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 1275mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 8g fiber), 27g protein.
55/68
Chicken Pesto Pasta
From the Recipe Creator:
When my garden basil goes nuts, I make pesto and keep it frozen in small containers for the right opportunity, like this saucy one-pot chicken pesto pasta recipe. —Kimberly Fenwick, Hobart, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 404 calories, 18g fat (4g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 646mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 2 fat.
56/68
Hearty Skillet Supper
From the Recipe Creator:
When the weather starts turning cooler, I start to hear requests for this dish. The light soy, onion and garlic flavors blend nicely with fresh carrots and potatoes in this budget-minded recipe. —Pat Jensen, Cottonwood, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 329 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 1140mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 24g protein.
57/68
Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro Black Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
Fluffy, cooked sweet potatoes topped with a spicy black bean mixture makes a great vegan entree or vegetable side dish for other proteins. You’ll be amazed at what peanut butter (yes, peanut butter!) does here.
Nutrition Facts:
1 potato with 1/2 cup black bean mixture: 400 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 426mg sodium, 77g carbohydrate (26g sugars, 12g fiber), 11g protein.
58/68
Chicken Burrito Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
We love Mexican night at our house, and I love to re-create dishes from our favorite restaurants. This burrito-inspired dish is ready for the table in almost no time! —Krista Marshall, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 403 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 690mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
59/68
Tuna Burger
From the Recipe Creator:
My family members were so accustomed to typical beef burgers that they were hesitant to try these when I first made them. Any skepticism disappeared after just one bite. —Kim Stoller, Smithville, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 417 calories, 23g fat (7g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 710mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 17g protein.
60/68
Summer Carbonara
From the Recipe Creator:
Basil and bacon make best summer buds in this smoky-sweet pasta. I pair it with a simple spring mix salad with balsamic dressing and a glass of good Chardonnay or cold iced tea. —Cathy Dudderar, Lexington, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 508 calories, 17g fat (5g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 732mg sodium, 66g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 23g protein.
61/68
Sloppy Joe Recipe
From the Recipe Creator:
You’ll love this quick, easy and economical dish. Brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness, both for traditional sandwiches on buns or as a down-home topping for rice, biscuits or baked potatoes. —Laurie Hauser, Rochester, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 439 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 1360mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein.
62/68
Easy Chicken Fried Rice
From the Recipe Creator:
After my first child was born, I needed meals that were satisfying and fast. This easy chicken fried rice is now part of our regular dinner rotation. —Alicia Gower, Auburn, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 548 calories, 25g fat (5g saturated fat), 163mg cholesterol, 934mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 38g protein.
63/68
Pasta Pizza
From the Recipe Creator:
My family often requests this meatless main dish. It's a tempting cross between pizza and spaghetti. —Andrea Quick, Columbus, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 374 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 532mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 5g fiber), 14g protein.
64/68
Homemade Fish Sticks
From the Recipe Creator:
I am a nutritionist and needed a healthy fish fix. Moist inside and crunchy outside, these are amazing with oven fries or roasted veggies and low-fat homemade tartar sauce. —Jennifer Rowland, Elizabethtown, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 278 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 129mg cholesterol, 718mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 33g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch.
65/68
Corn Dog Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Reminiscent of traditional corn dogs, this fun main dish really hits the spot on fall days. It's perfect for the football parties my husband and I often host. It tastes especially good right from the oven. —Marcy Suzanne Olipane, Belleville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 578 calories, 38g fat (16g saturated fat), 108mg cholesterol, 1307mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein.
66/68
Baked Spaghetti
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my grandchildren's most-loved dish. It feels like a special dinner and is so cozy for cooler months. —Louise Miller, Westminster, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 526 calories, 24g fat (13g saturated fat), 127mg cholesterol, 881mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein.
67/68
Pork Roast with Apples and Onions
From the Recipe Creator:
The sweetness of the apples and onions nicely complements the roast pork. With its crisp, golden exterior and melt-in-your-mouth flavor, this pork is my family's favorite weekend dinner. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 210 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 109mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
68/68
Stuffed Bell Peppers
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband, Steve, loves this stuffed pepper recipe. They're so filling and easy to prepare. I serve them with mashed potatoes and coleslaw for a no-fuss supper. —Karen Gentry, Somerset, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper: 430 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 1182mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 5g fiber), 30g protein.
