When it comes to being a vegan on a budget, delicious and pocket-friendly meals are not out of reach. Contrary to common misconceptions, eating plant-based on a budget is both doable and delightful. With a little creativity and some staple ingredients, you can whip up mouthwatering vegan meals that won’t break the bank.

Best Affordable Vegan Recipes

Savory Vegan Chili Sensation

Vegan Chili Sin Carne
Vegan Chili Sin Carne

This hearty vegan bean chili combines finely chopped seasonal vegetables, two types of beans, and a selection of basic pantry spices and canned tomatoes. It’s a perfect batch-cooking recipe that pairs well with rice, cornbread, rolls, potatoes, or tortilla chips.

Creamy Vegan Pasta with White Sauce

Vegan White Sauce Pasta
Vegan White Sauce Pasta

Looking for a simple yet scrumptious dinner idea? Try this colorful vegan pasta with white sauce, featuring your choice of pasta and a variety of fresh or frozen veggies smothered in a creamy sauce.

Tasty Thai Vegetable Stir Fry

Thai Vegetable Stir Fry
Thai Vegetable Stir Fry

Delight in this flavorful and customizable veggie stir-fry, incorporating zucchini, broccoli, carrots, winter squash, mushrooms, or peas. The easy Thai stir fry sauce calls for simple ingredients like soy sauce, white vinegar, ginger, and garlic, bringing out the best in any vegetables.

Delectable Vegan Chow Mein Noodles

Vegan Chow Mein Noodles
Vegan Chow Mein Noodles

This Chow mein noodle dish is quick to make, nutrient-packed, and bursting with flavor. The homemade sauce adds a delightful touch to sautéed veggies, creating a truly satisfying meal.

Cozy Lentil Carrot Soup

Cozy Lentil Carrot Soup
Cozy Lentil Carrot Soup

On colder days, nothing beats a comforting bowl of soup. This budget-friendly lentil soup calls for carrots, potatoes, a handful of greens, and a medley of spices. It’s a high-protein dinner option that’s perfect for multiple days.

Creamy Mushroom Pea Risotto

Mushroom Pea Risotto
Mushroom Pea Risotto

Indulge in this creamy mushroom risotto, easily made with any type of rice. It’s a one-pan dinner that takes around 30 minutes, using affordable ingredients and offering the comfort of a satisfying vegan meal.

Flavorful Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos

Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos
Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos

These scrumptious vegan tacos feature roasted chickpeas, crispy cauliflower bites, fresh salsa, and leafy greens. They are a crowd-pleasing, family-friendly dinner, adored even by meat-eaters.

Easy Vegan Bean Burritos

Easy Vegan Bean Burritos
Easy Vegan Bean Burritos

Got some leftover cooked rice? Create these easy vegan bean burritos! This versatile recipe includes tortilla wraps filled with smashed beans, salsa, green onion, corn, lettuce, tomato, and bell pepper. Customize it to your liking for a quick and portable lunch.

Spaghetti with Veggie Bolognese

Spaghetti with Veggie Bolognese
Spaghetti with Veggie Bolognese

Satisfy your pasta cravings with this hearty mushroom and lentil pasta sauce. It’s a flavorful and crowd-pleasing recipe that pairs well with any pasta of your choice.

Hearty Split Pea & Sweet Potato Stew

Split Pea & Sweet Potato Stew
Split Pea & Sweet Potato Stew

Minimize food waste and save money by trying this thick, rich, and comforting stew. It boasts a delightful depth of color and a hint of sweetness, making it a delightful option for colder days.

Crispy Vegan Tofu Tacos

Crispy Vegan Tofu Tacos
Crispy Vegan Tofu Tacos

With crispy tofu, sliced red cabbage, salsa, lime juice, and cilantro, these 30-minute tacos are both simple and tasty. They even work great for meal prep and are sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Easy 30-Minute Chili Mac

Easy 30-Minute Chili Mac
Easy 30-Minute Chili Mac

Need another quick and easy family dinner idea? Try this vegan chili mac! Ready in just half an hour, it’s packed with flavor and incredibly satisfying. If you loved hamburger helper, this recipe will surely win you over.

Delicious Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Adding a fantastic cheap vegan lunch idea to the list, this delicious chickpea salad sandwich is not only filling but also nutritious. It’s a perfect option for making ahead of time and saving money on lunch breaks.

Comforting Coconut Curry Soup

Coconut Curry Soup
Coconut Curry Soup

When a warm and comforting bowl of soup is what you crave on a cold night, this coconut curry soup is the answer. This make-ahead dish is bursting with flavors from canned chickpeas, tomatoes, coconut milk, spices, and a medley of chopped veggies.

Conclusions

From savory chilis to creamy pastas and comforting soups, these budget-friendly vegan meals are sure to satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank. So, get creative in the kitchen and enjoy a wide range of plant-based delights that are both pocket and planet-friendly.

More Vegan Recipes

If you loved these budget-friendly vegan meal ideas, explore our website for more collections of mouthwatering and affordable recipes!

  1. 20+ Vegan Burger Recipes
  2. 22+ Recipes with Hummus
  3. 35+ Vegan Recipes for Meat Lovers
  4. 28+ Delicious Vegan Bowls Recipes
  5. 22+ Tasty Vegan Sandwiches

Jennifer Carter

Food Enthusiast and Founder of FOODILOO