What Worked When My Money Was Tight—9 Affordable Vegan Casseroles

Things were tight, patience was thinner, and every meal needed to work harder than usual. 9 vegan casseroles managed to show up, feed everyone, and still leave leftovers without leaving the wallet empty. They didn’t ask for much, just a little space in the oven and a fridge that wasn’t completely empty. Somehow, cheap meals didn’t feel like a downgrade this time.

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of a baked breakfast casserole dish containing vegetables, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust and garnished with a parsley leaf. — Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Vegetable Casserole

A baked casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Packed with veggies and baked into a warm meal, Vegetable Casserole is easy to prepare and great for stretching your groceries. It’s hearty and filling, perfect for when money is tight and you need something simple but nourishing. Plus, leftovers can carry you through multiple meals.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

This one’s great for using inexpensive sweet potatoes to create a warm and rich dish. Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole has a balance of sweetness and savoriness that can keep hunger at bay without costing too much. It’s perfect for sharing with others or keeping for a couple of days. The creamy texture also adds a comforting feel to any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

A baked casserole with Brussels sprouts and a crispy, golden-brown topping, garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re looking for something with a bold twist, Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole gives a lot of flavor for not much cost. Brussels sprouts pair well with a baked dish that comes together with minimal effort. This one brings a nice crunch while staying warm and comforting. It’s a handy option when you’re stretching meals on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a layered dish with melted cheese, corn, beans, diced tomatoes, and green onions. — Vegan Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

For something spicy and filling while keeping costs down, Vegan Enchilada Casserole works great. It’s loaded with budget-friendly layers that are both simple and hearty. Whether for dinner or packed up for leftovers, this one can easily cover multiple meals without breaking the bank. The layered effect makes it feel like more than it costs.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Simple and approachable, Vegan Green Bean Casserole uses basic ingredients to create something warm and satisfying. It doesn’t require fancy cooking skills, making it a go-to option. This dish is great for feeding a group when you don’t have a big food budget. The texture works well for creating an easy side or the main dish.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Vegan French Toast Casserole

Close-up of baked French toast with strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with syrup in a baking dish. — Vegan French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Using basic bread as a foundation, Vegan French Toast Casserole turns cheap ingredients into a filling breakfast or dessert. This option is versatile, letting you stretch your groceries while creating something that feels special. It’s ideal for those mornings when you want to start the day with a low-cost, make-ahead dish. Plus, it works well for meal prepping.
Get the Recipe: Vegan French Toast Casserole

Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

A casserole dish brimming with golden-brown bread crumbs, tender rice, and vibrant broccoli florets, this vegan cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is a delightful blend of flavors. — Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Affordable staples like broccoli and rice come together nicely in Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole. It’s an easy recipe when you want something creamy without a high price. Great for dinner and leftover lunches, it keeps you fed without draining your wallet. The balance of textures makes it an easy favorite any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

Close-up of a dish with crispy tater tots, green bell peppers, and a creamy sauce, topped with fried onions. — Vegan Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When you want something filling and fun for cheap, Vegan Tater Tot Casserole comes together quickly and serves a group easily. It’s all about using basics to create a warm, baked dish everyone can enjoy. A great hack for stretching meals, it mixes comfort and practicality. You’ll get a hearty option with an uncomplicated prep.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

Breakfast Casserole

Perfect for mornings when you need a budget-friendly meal, Breakfast Casserole combines simple ingredients into something warm and filling. It’s practical, leaving you with enough food for breakfast or grab-and-go portions during the week. Using what you already have at home, it’s a no-fuss way to save money. This dish gets the job done efficiently every single time.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Casserole