Hey there, fellow home cooks! Let me tell you, there’s something truly special about whipping up a delicious dinner for under 20 dollars. It’s like a little victory, especially when you’re juggling a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying. This recipe is one of my go-tos because it’s super simple and quick—perfect for those busy weeknights when you just want to get something tasty on the table without breaking the bank. Trust me, you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar when you serve this up! Plus, it’s packed with flavor and sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this easy, wallet-friendly feast together!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef (you can use lean ground beef for a healthier option)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (about 14.5 oz, don’t forget to look for the ones with no added sugar!)
- 1 can kidney beans (about 15 oz, make sure to drain and rinse them before using)
- 1 onion, chopped (any variety works, but I love using yellow onions for sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds so much flavor, but you can use pre-minced if you’re short on time)
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to your spice preference—it’s where the magic happens!)
- 1 tsp cumin (this gives it that warm, earthy flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with these, they really enhance the dish!)
- 4 tortillas (flour or corn, your choice—just make sure they’re pliable for wrapping)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend works great for that melty goodness)
How to Prepare a Dinner Under 20 Dollars
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Start by grabbing a large skillet and heating up a splash of oil over medium heat. It’s important to get the oil nice and hot, so the onion and garlic can sizzle beautifully! Once the oil is shimmering, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and fragrant—this is where the magic starts!
Next, add in the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s browned, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir it occasionally so it cooks evenly. Once the beef is looking good, it’s time to add in the diced tomatoes and drained kidney beans. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This is when all those flavors meld together, and trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!
While that’s simmering away, warm your tortillas in a separate pan over low heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side. This will make them soft and easy to fold. Once everything is ready, spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and fold them up. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious, budget-friendly dinner!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your dinner turns out perfectly! Here are some handy tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t rush the browning: Make sure your ground beef is nicely browned. This adds depth to the flavor, so don’t skip that step!
- Season to taste: When adding salt and pepper, start with a little and adjust as you go. It’s always easier to add more than to fix an overly salty dish!
- Warm tortillas properly: If your tortillas aren’t warm enough, they might crack when you fold them. Take your time with this step—it’s worth it!
- Customize your spices: If you love a spicy kick, feel free to add more chili powder or even a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. Taste as you go!
- Leftovers are your friend: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They make a great lunch or quick dinner the next day!
These little tips can really elevate your dish and help you avoid common pitfalls. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Before we dig into the deliciousness, here’s a little note: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider these as estimates. That said, here’s what you can expect per serving of this tasty dinner under 20 dollars:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
This meal is not only budget-friendly but also packs a good punch of protein and fiber to keep you full and satisfied. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s a wholesome choice for your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-friendly: You can enjoy a hearty meal for under 20 dollars!
- Quick to prepare: Dinner is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Full of flavor: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a satisfying and delicious dish.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or tweak the spices to make it your own!
- Great for leftovers: This meal keeps well, so you can enjoy it again the next day!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious dinner under 20 dollars ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! I love to keep things simple, so here are a few easy ideas:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with your favorite dressing adds a refreshing touch. Try mixing in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for a pop of color!
- Guacamole or Salsa: Whip up some quick guacamole or serve a bowl of salsa on the side. The creaminess of the avocado or the zing of the salsa pairs perfectly with the tortillas!
- Rice or Quinoa: A side of fluffy rice or quinoa can complement the meal nicely, soaking up all those wonderful flavors. Plus, they add a bit of heartiness!
- Chips: Tortilla chips make for a fun crunch! Serve them with some salsa or cheese dip for a delightful appetizer.
- Beverages: Don’t forget to grab a refreshing drink! A chilled lemonade or iced tea works great to balance the spices in the dish.
These simple sides will enhance your meal and make it even more enjoyable. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. Happy feasting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those tasty leftovers fresh! First, make sure to let your beef mixture cool down a bit before storing. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should keep well for up to three days—perfect for a quick meal later on!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, just scoop out what you need and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. Just be careful not to overheat, or you might end up with dry tortillas!
FAQ Section
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a delicious dinner under 20 dollars!
What if I don’t have kidney beans?
No worries! You can swap them out for black beans or pinto beans—whatever you have on hand. Just remember to drain and rinse them first!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and use more beans or even some sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. It will still be super flavorful!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like it hot, feel free to add extra chili powder or even some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. You could also serve it with a spicy salsa on the side!
Can I prepare this in advance?
Definitely! You can cook the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up when you’re ready to make your tortillas!
Dinner Under 20 Dollars: 5 Steps to Flavorful Success
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple and affordable dinner recipe that you can make for under 20 dollars.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Warm the tortillas in a separate pan.
- Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Fold the tortillas and serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the beans before adding them.
- You can add more spices if you like it spicier.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: dinner under 20 dollars, easy dinner, budget-friendly recipe
