Cheap Main Dish Vegetarian Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals

Eating well on a budget doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor, nutrition, or creativity—especially if you’re cooking vegetarian! Whether you’re a student, a busy parent, or just looking to cut down on grocery bills, there are plenty of cheap main dish vegetarian recipes that deliver big on taste and satisfaction.

The best part? Many rely on pantry staples, seasonal veggies, and a few clever tricks to keep costs low and meals hearty.

In this post, I’ll walk you through four of my absolute favorite budget-friendly vegetarian main dishes: Lentil Shepherd’s Pie, Chickpea Curry, Vegetable Fried Rice, and One-Pan Baked Ziti. Each recipe is easy to prepare, customizable, and guaranteed to please veggie lovers and skeptics alike.

Keep reading for ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for making the most of your meals, and even ideas for serving and storing leftovers. For more culinary inspiration, check out our Harvest Hash Recipe or try a tangy twist with our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe.

Ready to cook delicious and affordable vegetarian meals? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-friendly: Each recipe uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients like legumes, pasta, and in-season vegetables.
• Hearty & filling: These mains are designed to satisfy—no unsatisfying salads here!
• Flexible & customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand.
• Meal prep friendly: Make ahead and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
• Family approved: Even picky eaters will love these cozy, flavorful dishes.
• Nutritionally balanced: Each recipe offers protein, fiber, and plenty of vitamins from plant-based sources.

Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large pot
• Medium saucepan
• Oven-safe baking dish (8×8 or similar)
• Wooden spoon
• Potato masher
• Measuring cups & spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the potatoes: In a medium saucepan, add cubed potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil and simmer until fork tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the lentil filling: While potatoes cook, heat a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in a splash of oil or broth for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, cook 1 minute more.
3. Add lentils, tomato paste, thyme, and soy sauce. Stir well, then add vegetable broth. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until lentils are tender and most liquid is absorbed.
4. Stir in frozen peas. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Mash the potatoes: Add butter and milk to the drained potatoes. Mash until creamy, seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Assemble: Spread the lentil mixture in your baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing out evenly.
7. Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and filling is bubbling around the edges.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use sweet potatoes for a sweeter, nutrient-rich mash.
• Add mushrooms, corn, or your favorite veggies to the filling for extra flavor.
• Top with a sprinkle of shredded cheese before baking for a golden, cheesy crust.
• Short on time? Use instant potatoes or pre-cooked lentils.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal.
• Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra tang.
• Leftovers make a great packed lunch—just reheat and enjoy!

“Lentils are an affordable plant-based protein that make meals hearty and satisfying!”

Chickpea Curry

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and ginger, cook 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in curry powder and cumin, letting the spices toast for 30 seconds.
4. Add tomatoes, coconut milk, and chickpeas. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sauce should thicken slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
7. Serve hot with rice or flatbread.

Tips & Variations

• Add chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes for extra greens.
• Use light coconut milk for a lower-fat option.
• Swap curry powder for garam masala or your favorite curry paste.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed basmati or jasmine rice.
• Pair with warm naan or pita bread for scooping up the curry.
• Try alongside our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for a party-perfect spread.

“Canned chickpeas are an affordable pantry staple and soak up flavors beautifully in curries.”

Vegetable Fried Rice

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large wok or nonstick skillet
• Spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
2. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until just tender.
3. Push vegetables to one side. Scramble eggs (if using) in the empty space, then mix with veggies.
4. Add cold cooked rice. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
5. Stir-fry everything together for 5 minutes, breaking up clumps and letting rice get a little crispy.
6. Stir in green onions. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions or sesame seeds.

Tips & Variations

• Use tofu or edamame for a vegan protein boost.
• Try cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• Leftover rice is best—it fries up crispier than freshly cooked.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple miso soup or Asian-style side salad.
• Top with sriracha or chili crisp for a spicy kick.
• Serve as a main, or alongside tofu or veggie dumplings for a complete meal.

“Fried rice is the ultimate way to use up leftover rice and stray veggies—easy, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable.”

One-Pan Baked Ziti

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, combine uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, spinach, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil on the stove, stirring often. Simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, until pasta is just al dente.
4. Dollop ricotta over the pasta, then sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan.
5. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Swap spinach for chopped kale, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers.
• Use vegan cheese or omit cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad and balsamic vinaigrette.
• Pair with crusty garlic bread for a classic Italian feast.
• For a fresh finish, top with chopped basil just before serving.

“This one-pan pasta comes together quickly and saves on dishes—a total weeknight winner!”

Tips & Variations (For All Recipes)

• Buy in bulk: Dried lentils, rice, and beans are often cheaper in larger quantities.
• Use seasonal produce for the best prices and flavors.
• Repurpose leftovers into wraps, soups, or grain bowls.
• Freeze portions for easy future meals.

Nutrition Facts (Summary Table)

Serving Suggestions

• All of these dishes are excellent on their own, but feel free to add a side salad or roasted veggies for extra nutrition.
• Enjoy with homemade bread, such as our High Altitude Wheat Bread Recipe, for a perfect pairing.
• These recipes are great for meal prep—portion into containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• If you enjoy a sweet finish, try a light dessert like our Kolasnittar Recipe or Lemon Straws Recipe.

Conclusion

Cooking vegetarian doesn’t just promote health and sustainability—it can also be gentle on your wallet! With these cheap main dish vegetarian recipes, you’ll discover how affordable ingredients yield vibrant, comforting, and truly satisfying meals.

Each recipe is designed to be fuss-free, flexible, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your routine, these dishes are sure to become staples in your home.

Remember, cooking on a budget is all about creativity and making the most of what you have. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new veggies, spices, and grains—or to reinvent leftovers into something new.

For more inspiration and unique recipes (from sweet to savory), browse our collection, including the ever-popular Harvest Hash Recipe and Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!

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