Because a good meal can change a kid’s whole day.
Here at Budget Bytes, we’ve always believed that good food isn’t just about flavor, it’s about access. Everyone deserves meals that taste great, don’t cost a fortune, and fit into real life. Whether you’re a busy parent trying to get dinner on the table before soccer practice, a student learning to cook for the first time, or just someone trying to make that grocery budget stretch a little farther…we see you. And we’re cooking right alongside you!
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All recipes are rigorously tested in our Nashville Test Kitchen to ensure they are easy, affordable, and delicious.
That’s why we love No Kid Hungry. Their mission—to make sure every child in America gets the healthy food they need to grow, learn, and thrive—hits close to home for us. According to the USDA, 1 in 5 kids in the U.S. lives in a home where there isn’t always enough to eat. That’s a tough number to sit with, but it’s also something we can work together to help change. Since 2010, No Kid Hungry has dedicated its mission to ensuring that every child has three meals a day to grow up healthy, happy, and strong.
At Budget Bytes, we’ve seen firsthand how learning to cook at home can make a real difference. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about having the skills and confidence to turn a few simple, affordable ingredients into something nourishing and delicious. And when people feel empowered to cook for themselves, that confidence ripples outward to families, neighbors, and whole communities. Every time someone discovers they can make a great meal on a tight budget, they gain more than dinner—they gain independence, resilience, and that proud little moment of, “Hey, I can do this!”
So, to celebrate No Kid Hungry’s incredible work, we’re sharing 10 recipes that keep that same spirit alive so we can pass it on to the next generation — dishes that are:
Kid-friendly – loved by little ones and adults alike.
Budget-friendly – every recipe under $10 total.
Fast and easy – because we know you’ve got enough on your plate already.
1. Cheesy Kidney Bean Quesadillas
Cheesy Kidney Bean Quesadillas
When dinnertime sneaks up and I need something fast, these cheesy kidney bean quesadillas always save the day. They’re melty, crispy, and made with just a handful of pantry ingredients—proof that simple really can be satisfying. My kids love them (a small miracle), and I love that they’re budget-friendly and packed with protein. So the next time you spot that can of kidney beans in your pantry, grab some cheese and tortillas—you’ve got dinner in minutes!
2. vegetarian chili
Vegetarian Chili
When I want something hearty, and budget-friendly, this Vegetarian Chili is my go-to. It’s made entirely with affordable pantry staples so it’s easy on both time and money. It’s one of those simple, comforting meals that proves you don’t need to spend a lot to eat really well. Watch our video below to see how you can repurpose it, too!
3. Apple Flautas
Apple Flautas
These Apple Flautas are a kid favorite! They’re warm, crispy, and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar—basically like little apple pie rolls you can eat with your hands. They’re super easy to make, and the kids always get excited when they smell that cinnamon-apple goodness wafting through the kitchen. It’s the perfect fun dessert (or snack!) for little helpers to enjoy.
4. Turkey Meatballs
Turkey Meatballs
When I want an easy, kid-friendly dinner, these Turkey Meatballs are my go-to! They’re lighter than beef but just as tasty, and my kids love them with spaghetti. I usually make a double batch and freeze half—it makes busy weeknights so much easier!
5. Air fryer asparagus
Air Fryer Asparagus
This Air Fryer Asparagus is a quick, kid-approved veggie side that’s ready in under 10 minutes! It’s crispy, simple, and the perfect way to get everyone (yes, even the kids!) to eat their greens.
6. creamy tomato and spinach pasta
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Some days call for an easy, kid-friendly dinner that’s ready fast—and this Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta totally delivers. It comes together in minutes with just a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights when everyone’s hungry right now. Creamy, comforting, and full of flavor—this one’s always a hit at my house!
7. pizza roll-ups
Pizza Roll Ups
Want a fun, kid-approved way to get your pizza fix fast? These easy Pizza Roll Ups are my go-to! They’ve got all the cheesy, pepperoni-filled goodness of classic pizza bites—just made fresh with simple ingredients you already have in the fridge. Perfect for after-school snacks, movie nights, or a quick “pizza party” whenever the craving hits!
8. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Recipe
When the week gets hectic and dinner needs to be fast, I always turn to my trusty Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. It’s the ultimate simple pasta—just spaghetti, olive oil, and garlic—but somehow it feels special every single time. Quick, cozy, and full of flavor, it’s proof that the simplest meals are often the best!
9. oven baked chicken drumsticks
Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks
You know I’m all about easy dinner staples, and these Baked Chicken Drumsticks are one of my go-tos! They take almost no effort—just season, bake, and let the oven do the work while you handle everything else life throws your way. Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy, they’re my favorite “don’t have to think about it” dinner for busy nights.
10. meal prep noodle soup jars
Meal Prep Noodle Soup Jars
These Noodle Soup Jars are my go-to for easy, make-ahead lunches! I took my favorite upgraded instant ramen recipe and turned it into convenient jars that stay fresh for days—just add hot water, stir, and lunch is ready. Perfect for staying organized, saving money, and enjoying a warm, comforting meal without the fuss!
Each of these recipes proves that good food doesn’t have to cost a lot or take all night. And when we share meals that are this affordable, fun, and family-friendly, we’re helping make sure no kid goes without the nourishment they deserve. Not to mention, less labor-intensive recipes means more quality time spent with the kids we love so much! (Teaching them how to make these recipes in the kitchen is a great idea, too!)
If you’d like to be part of No Kid Hungry’s mission, visit NoKidHungry.org to learn more or make a donation. We are SO on board helping them turn 1 in 5 into 0 in 5. Let’s DO this!
