14 Vegetarian Main Courses That Are Easy on the Wallet

This post may contain affiliate links, please see our privacy policy + disclosures for details.

Eating well doesn’t have to mean spending big. These 14 budget-friendly vegetarian main course recipes are proof that delicious meals can be affordable too. From hearty pastas to protein-packed grain bowls, these recipes are easy on the wallet but still full of flavor. Whether you’re looking to save money or simply enjoy more plant-based meals, these dishes make eating on a budget a breeze.

Low Carb Gnocchi with Fresh Spinach Sauce

A white bowl filled with gnocchi covered in a green sauce, garnished with a sprinkle of orange seasoning. A fork rests on the side of the bowl. In the background, large spinach leaves and a couple of yellow flowers are visible on the white surface.
Low Carb Gnocchi with Fresh Spinach Sauce. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

This Low-Carb Gnocchi with Fresh Spinach Sauce offers a creamy and satisfying meal that’s also keto-friendly. The homemade gnocchi pairs perfectly with the vibrant spinach sauce, making it a nutritious and affordable vegetarian main course. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens!
Get This Recipe: Low Carb Gnocchi with Fresh Spinach Sauce

Low Carb Gnocchi Tomato Basil

A bowl filled with gnocchi mixed with vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves, all delicately cooked, is shown in the foreground. The background is slightly blurred but hints at more fresh ingredients, adding depth to the image.
Low Carb Gnocchi Tomato Basil. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Enjoy the classic combination of tomato and basil in this low-carb gnocchi dish that’s as tasty as it is budget-friendly. The rich, flavorful sauce complements the gnocchi perfectly, making it an excellent choice for an affordable vegetarian main course that feels both comforting and light.
Get This Recipe: Low Carb Gnocchi Tomato Basil

Delicious Moo Shu Chicken

A wooden platter holds a vibrant mix of stir-fried vegetables and mushrooms garnished with chopped green onions, set atop a bed of leafy greens. Nearby, thin rice paper sheets are neatly arranged. A small bowl of brown dipping sauce accompanies the dish. Chopsticks rest on the edge of the platter.
Delicious Moo Shu Chicken. Photo credit: Noshing with the Nolands.

Moo Shu Chicken is packed with flavor and veggies, making it a great option when you want a satisfying meal without too much effort. With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s an affordable main dish that’s perfect for feeding the family or enjoying leftovers the next day.
Get This Recipe: Delicious Moo Shu Chicken

Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Eggs

A close-up of a bowl filled with steamed rice, topped with sautéed vegetables including broccoli, carrots, and mushrooms. The dish is garnished with a runny fried egg, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of red sauce.
Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Eggs. Photo credit: Noshing with the Nolands.

This Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Eggs is a simple yet nutritious option for anyone looking for a budget-friendly meal. The eggs add protein, while the vegetables bring in plenty of color and crunch. It’s an affordable vegetarian dish that’s easy to customize based on what’s in your fridge.
Get This Recipe: Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Eggs

Sesame Ginger Noodles with Tofu and Vegetables

sesame ginger tofu with broccoli and noodles on plate with chopsticks.
Image Credit: Melissa Altman-Traub for Melissa Traub Plant-Based Nutrition

Sesame Ginger Noodles with Tofu and Vegetables is a fast and flavorful Asian-inspired vegan dish. Featuring fresh ginger, garlic, wheat noodles, and broccoli, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Save money on costly and high-sodium sauces my making it from scratch.

Get This Recipe: Sesame Ginger Noodles with Tofu and Vegetables

Eggplant Lasagna

A close-up of a plate with a serving of eggplant lasagna, topped with melted cheese and garnished with a fresh basil leaf. Forks are placed in the background on a blurred surface.
Eggplant Lasagna. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Eggplant Lasagna is a lighter, veggie-packed alternative to the traditional version, making it both healthy and wallet-friendly. Layers of eggplant and cheese come together in this baked dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. This is one of the most affordable vegetarian main courses that still feels hearty.
Get This Recipe: Eggplant Lasagna

One-Pan Pasta with Chickpeas and Tomatoes

One-pan pasta with chickpeas and tomatoes on bowl with lemon, rosemary sprig, and cherry tomato garnish and a fork.
Image Credit: Melissa Altman-Traub for Melissa Traub Plant-Based Nutrition

One-pan Pasta with Chickpeas and Tomatoes is a straightforward Mediterranean-style dish. Perfect for busy days, this meal combines pantry staples with fresh asparagus, eliminating the need for extra pots and pans.

Get This Recipe: One-Pan Pasta with Chickpeas and Tomatoes

Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

A plate of stir-fried tofu and broccoli garnished with sesame seeds is shown. The tofu is golden brown and cubed, nestled among bright green broccoli florets. A fork and a red checkered cloth napkin are positioned nearby.
Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry is an ideal choice for a quick and budget-friendly vegetarian meal. The tofu soaks up the savory sauce, and the broccoli adds crunch and nutrition. With simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, it’s a great go-to for an affordable vegetarian main course that’s also healthy.
Get This Recipe: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Easy Four Cheese Stuffed Shells

A skillet with pasta shells.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Easy Four Cheese Stuffed Shells features jumbo shells filled with rich, cheesy goodness and topped with a creamy white sauce infused with fresh herbs. No need for spaghetti sauce with all of this flavor!

Get This Recipe: Easy Four Cheese Stuffed Shells

Vegetable Yaki Udon

A bowl of stir-fried noodles with sliced vegetables including broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, and zucchini, garnished with sliced green onions and jalapeños. The bowl is accompanied by a pair of wooden chopsticks and a green cloth, with green onions visible in the background.
Vegetable Yaki Udon. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Vegetable Yaki Udon is a quick and flavorful dish that’s easy on both your time and your wallet. The chewy udon noodles and fresh veggies make it a filling, vegetarian main course that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s a great choice when you want an affordable vegetarian main course that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Get This Recipe: Vegetable Yaki Udon

Baby Bok Choy and Tofu Stir-Fry

tofu pieces, yellow peppers, and baby bok choy with sesame seeds.
Image Credit: Melissa Altman-Traub for Melissa Traub Plant-Based Nutrition

Baby Bok Choy and Tofu Stir-Fry is an easy, plant-based meal perfect for weeknights or any time. If you’re unsure how to prepare tofu, this recipe guides you through pressing and marinating it for a chewy texture and great flavor. You can even grow your own bok choy to save money!

Get This Recipe: Baby Bok Choy and Tofu Stir-Fry

Easy Vegan Mexican Pizza

Mexican pizza topped with cheddar cheese, olives, and cilantro.
Image Credit: Melissa Altman-Traub for Melissa Traub Plant-Based Nutrition

Easy Vegan Mexican Pizza is a double-layered delight that’s fun to make PLUS healthier than the fast-food version. Made with corn tortillas and adjustable for beans and veggies you have on hand.

Get This Recipe: Easy Vegan Mexican Pizza

Vegan Kung Pao with Tofu, Vegetables & Cashews

Two bowls of colorful rice and vegetable stir-fry are topped with various ingredients, including tofu, bell peppers, broccoli, and chili slices. Off to the side are ingredients like ginger, lime, and red chili peppers. Chopsticks rest on the bowls.
Vegan Kung Pao with Tofu, Vegetables & Cashews. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This Vegan Kung Pao with Tofu, Vegetables, and Cashews brings bold flavors to your table without the hefty price tag. The tofu and cashews provide a satisfying texture, while the sauce gives you that perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory. It’s a fantastic affordable vegetarian main course to whip up.
Get This Recipe: Vegan Kung Pao with Tofu, Vegetables & Cashews

Thai Peanut Tempeh with Rice

Thai peanut tempeh on plate with chopsticks on bamboo mat.
Image Credit: Melissa Altman-Traub for Melissa Traub Plant-Based Nutrition

Enjoy this quick and flavorful Thai Peanut Tempeh with Rice, perfect for lunch or dinner with a touch of spice. This high-protein, high-fiber vegan recipe is ideal for a speedy weeknight meal.

Get This Recipe: Thai Peanut Tempeh with Rice

Want to save this recipe?
Just enter your email and get it sent to your inbox! Plus you'll get new recipes from us every week!

About Jenny deRemer

I am a Charleston, South Carolina-based culinary novice, an ardent authority on all things travel, a designer by trade, and the creator of Not Entirely Average. I have a weakness for farmers' markets, delight in adventures way off the beaten path, enjoy documenting my many moods through photography, and have been known to conquer the occasional yard sale with gusto!

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *