Verified basket note: These planning estimates use the current catalogue week IGA five-item basket for 2 Sept 2026–8 Sept 2026. They are not guaranteed checkout totals. New weeks are shown only after all four stores have comparable evidence.
Quick answer
$138.50 estimated for the seven-dinner basket for a family of four. Data generated: 4 Sept 2026.
Cheap dinners do not have to mean the same meal every night. The most reliable approach is to combine inexpensive pantry staples with the best-value protein and vegetables on special.
These ten ideas are estimated for a family of four. Your local price will vary, but the planning method stays useful: start with specials, then build a complete dinner around them.
Ten dinners under $15 from the latest verified basket
| Dinner | Est. cost (family of 4) |
|---|---|
| IGA cheesy potato bake | $17.10 |
| IGA chicken and pasta | $13.90 |
| IGA chicken toasties | $28.40 |
| IGA potato and pasta bake | $18.00 |
| IGA chicken with roast potatoes | $19.90 |
| IGA cheese and pasta bowl | $11.10 |
| IGA chicken, cheese and potato plate | $30.10 |
| $138.50 estimated for the seven-dinner basket | |
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MealPantry turns the latest verified supermarket specials into a complete plan and shopping list for your family.
Plan affordable dinnersFrequently asked questions
Can these meals really cost less than $15?
They are estimates based on advertised specials and common staples. Actual prices vary by store, state, pack size and availability.
How do I make cheap dinners less repetitive?
Rotate cuisines, reuse ingredients across meals and let the current specials choose which protein or vegetable anchors the week.
Can MealPantry plan around my own budget?
Yes. Set your budget, household size and food preferences and MealPantry builds a matching plan.
MealPantry app
Turn this plan into your shopping list.
Set your budget, household size and favourite cuisines. MealPantry builds affordable dinners around current Australian supermarket specials.
Scan to download
MealPantry for iPhone