From pastas and wraps to soups and sandwiches, these cheap lunch ideas use affordable staples and clever twists to deliver big flavor without a big grocery bill.
Making your own lunch is one of the easiest ways to save money, and these cheap lunch ideas show that it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive to eat well. Using only a handful of ingredients, these affordable lunch recipes include easy pantry-friendly lunch ideas that come together quickly from what you already have, like pasta, canned beans, eggs and frozen vegetables to deliver hearty, flavorful meals with bold sauces, crunchy vegetables and melty cheese.
We selected these easy budget lunches because they’re affordable, enjoyable and built with convenience in mind. Try a chickpea salad sandwich, veggie-stuffed wrap or garlic-laced spaghetti. For something lighter, veggie-packed lentil soup is one of the many healthy lunch ideas on a budget that will still fill you up all afternoon. Many pack well to take to work or school—think roasted tomato soup in a thermos or crisp turkey lettuce wraps tucked into a container. On days without microwave access, cold lunch ideas like pasta salads are easy to prep and enjoy chilled. Round out your meal with simple, low-cost extras like fruit, hard-boiled eggs and a refreshing sparkling water.
Whether you’re skipping the takeout line or making the most of your pantry, these affordable lunch recipes are here to keep things simple and full of flavor, without straining your grocery budget.
1/34
Hamburger Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
At family get-togethers, our children always request this spirit-warming soup along with a fresh loaf of homemade bread and tall glasses of milk. It has robust flavor and plenty of fresh-tasting vegetables, and it's so easy to make. —Barbara Brown, Janesville, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 167 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 972mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 12g protein.
2/34
Garlic Spaghetti
From the Recipe Creator:
I make this family-favorite garlic spaghetti—or spaghetti aglio e olio—at least a couple of times a month. It's wonderful with a salad and fresh Italian bread. Add red pepper flakes to give it a bit of heat or finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. —Jackie Messina, Chardon, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 398 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 521mg sodium, 59g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 12g protein.
3/34
Air-Fryer Black Bean Chimichangas
From the Recipe Creator:
These chimichangas get a little love from the air fryer, so they’re much healthier than their deep-fried counterparts. Black beans provide protein, and the recipe is a smart way to use up leftover rice. —Kimberly Hammond, Kingwood, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 chimichanga: 337 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 602mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 10g fiber), 13g protein.
4/34
Bacon Grilled Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
This bacon sandwich with Dijon mustard and two kinds of cheese is the perfect combo of creamy-melty filling and crispy, buttery bread. —Sharon Delaney-Chronis, South Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 743 calories, 51g fat (22g saturated fat), 124mg cholesterol, 1263mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 37g protein.
5/34
Lentil Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
When my children requested more vegetarian dishes, this chunky stew became a favorite. Red wine vinegar perks up the flavor and carrots add color. We like to ladle helpings over cooked rice.
—Alice McEachern of Surrey, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 168 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1123mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 10g fiber), 10g protein.
6/34
Tuna Melt
From the Recipe Creator:
When our children were young, I often fixed these warm, crunchy sandwiches. They go well with chips and a salad for a quick lunch. —Carole Anhalt, Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 363 calories, 23g fat (10g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 629mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 15g protein.
7/34
Spanakopita Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Spanakopita is the Greek name for this traditional dish featuring spinach and feta cheese. You can serve it as a side dish or meatless main dish. — Sharon Olney, Galt, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 262 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 178mg cholesterol, 838mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 21g protein.
8/34
Spinach Pizza Quesadillas
From the Recipe Creator:
This simple five-ingredient dinner is special to me because my daughter and I created it together. You can make variations with other veggies you might have at home. It’s a smart way to get kids to eat healthier. —Tanna Mancini, Gulfport, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 quesadilla: 301 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 650mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 medium-fat meat.
9/34
Polenta Chili Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This delicious vegetarian bake combines spicy chili, mixed veggies and homemade polenta. —Dan Kelmenson, West Bloomfield, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 397 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 922mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 7g fiber), 21g protein.
10/34
Hummus Veggie Wrap
From the Recipe Creator:
I had a vegan wrap that was similar to this once when I stopped at a diner while on a long and arduous walk. I enjoyed it so much that I modified it to my own taste and now have it for lunch on a regular basis. Everyone at work wants to know how to make it. —Michael Steffens, Indianapolis, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 wrap: 235 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 415mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat.
11/34
Hearty Asian Lettuce Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This meatless version of your favorite restaurant salad packs 13 grams of protein per serving and is bursting with juicy flavor. It's a brilliant choice for lunch or a busy-day dinner. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 salad: 329 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 430mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 7g fiber), 13g protein.
12/34
Chickpea Salad Sandwiches
From the Recipe Creator:
This chickpea salad is flavorful and contains less fat and cholesterol than chicken salad. These make absolutely delightful picnic sandwiches. —Deanna Wolfe, Madison, South Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 295 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 586mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 7g fiber), 10g protein.
13/34
Black Bean Nachos
From the Recipe Creator:
We're trying to go meatless once a week, and this dish helps make those meals fun, quick and super delicious. It's also a smart way to use up beans and canned tomatoes from your pantry. —Cynthia Nelson, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 371 calories, 17g fat (6g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 672mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 7g fiber), 15g protein.
14/34
Pepperoni Pasta Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Bottled Italian dressing and pepperoni add zip to this colorful combination. Serve it right away or assemble it ahead of time. The longer this salad chills, the better it is!
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 287 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 495mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.
15/34
Stuffed Bell Peppers
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband, Steve, loves this stuffed pepper recipe. They're so filling and easy to prepare. I serve them with mashed potatoes and coleslaw for a no-fuss supper. —Karen Gentry, Somerset, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper: 430 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 1182mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 5g fiber), 30g protein.
16/34
Easy Chicken Fried Rice
From the Recipe Creator:
After my first child was born, I needed meals that were satisfying and fast. This easy chicken fried rice is now part of our regular dinner rotation. —Alicia Gower, Auburn, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 548 calories, 25g fat (5g saturated fat), 163mg cholesterol, 934mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 38g protein.
Really buckling down on your budget? Try these meals for under $10.
17/34
Black Bean Burrito
From the Recipe Creator:
My neighbor and I discovered these delicious low-fat burritos a few years ago. On nights my husband or I have a meeting, we can have a satisfying supper on the table in minutes. —Angela Studebaker, Goshen, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito: 395 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 610mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 7g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
18/34
Chicken Caesar Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
After tasting this easy chicken Caesar salad recipe at a friend's going-away party, I made sure to request the recipe. Now I fix it for my husband just about every week. It's great with a potato or pasta side dish and chunks of crusty bread. —Kim Blanda, Neptune, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 318 calories, 21g fat (5g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 573mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.
For more, consider these tasty cold lunch ideas.
19/34
Muffin-Cup Cheddar Beef Pies
From the Recipe Creator:
My kids love these beef rolls so much. I always make extra since they heat up so quickly. I give the kids their choice of dipping sauces—spaghetti sauce or ranch dressing are the top picks. —Kimberly Farmer, Wichita, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
2 meat pies: 482 calories, 19g fat (7g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 850mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 29g protein.
Try these cheap breakfast ideas that use simple staples.
20/34
Cheesy Bow Tie Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a super-simple dish that tastes like it's straight from a nice Italian restaurant. Spinach-artichoke dip is usually available in supermarket delis. It comes frozen, too. Just make sure to thaw it according to the package directions before dinnertime. —Sally Sibthorpe, Shelby Township, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 453 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 93mg cholesterol, 795mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 38g protein.
21/34
Egg Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a pared-down version of a classic egg salad recipe. You can also add a little cream cheese for an extra-creamy spread. —Linda Braun, American Egg Board, Park Ridge, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 294 calories, 25g fat (5g saturated fat), 431mg cholesterol, 438mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 13g protein.
22/34
Chicken Bow Tie Pasta
From the Recipe Creator:
On lazy summer weekends, we like chicken and yellow squash tossed with bow tie pasta. Add extra fresh grated Parmesan for a Sunday touch. —Sarah Smiley, Bangor, Maine
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 528 calories, 16g fat (9g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 690mg sodium, 64g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 33g protein.
23/34
Roasted Tomato Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Just before the first frost of the season, we gather up all of the tomatoes from my mom’s garden to create this flavor-packed soup. Although it sounds like a lot of garlic, when it’s roasted, the garlic becomes mellow and almost sweet. We serve this soup with toasted bread spread with pesto. —Kaitlyn Lerdahl, Madison, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 276 calories, 22g fat (6g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 421mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 5g fiber), 4g protein.
24/34
Lentil Burritos
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm constantly trying to incorporate healthy but tasty meals into our menu. Kids and adults alike love these mildly spiced burritos that combine filling lentils with crisp zucchini. —Pam Masters, Wickenburg, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito: 313 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 452mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 14g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 2 lean meat, 1 fat.
25/34
Air-Fryer Taco Puffs
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to make these puffs ahead of time and keep the in the refrigerator until I'm ready to pop them in the air fryer. A helpful hint: Plain refrigerated biscuits seal together better than buttermilk types. —Jan Schmid, Hibbing, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 taco puff: 574 calories, 28g fat (13g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1538mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein.
26/34
Deli Turkey Lettuce Wraps
From the Recipe Creator:
I used to make these during my training days when I worked at a restaurant in Hawaii. They're low fat, low carb, high protein, quick and delicious—a great choice before or after a workout. —Duncan Omarzu, Astoria, New York
Nutrition Facts:
3 lettuce wraps: 270 calories, 16g fat (4g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 799mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
27/34
Pork Ramen Noodles
From the Recipe Creator:
I normally serve a traditional stir-fry, but I wanted to change it up with this ramen noodle recipe. Ramen noodles are a quick sub for the rice, and we really like the crisp-tender bite from fresh broccoli and a package of coleslaw mix. —Barbara Pletzke, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1-3/4 cups: 354 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 794mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein.
28/34
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Orzo
From the Recipe Creator:
Broccoli and rice casserole tops my family's comfort food list, but when we need something fast, this is the stuff. Chicken and veggie orzo cooked on the stovetop speeds everything up. —Mary Shivers, Ada, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 359 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 655mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
29/34
Bacon Cheeseburger Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I both love these cheeseburger rolls. I often serve them with broccoli and cheese. They must be good because this recipe won a first-place prize at the Iowa State Fair! —Jessica Cain, Des Moines, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 roll-up: 429 calories, 24g fat (10g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1372mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein.
30/34
Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
From the Recipe Creator:
When the weather turns cold, get cozy with a bowl of this butternut squash soup. The cream adds richness, but if you're looking to cut calories, it can be omitted. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 157 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 483mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 6g fiber), 3g protein.
31/34
Cheesy Egg Quesadillas
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's my fun spin on breakfast for dinner—or breakfast! These egg quesadillas are so easy to make, full of protein and plain delicious any time of day. —Barbara Blommer, Woodland Park, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 quesadilla: 738 calories, 38g fat (18g saturated fat), 344mg cholesterol, 1248mg sodium, 67g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 30g protein.
32/34
Peanut Butter Pickle Sandwich
From the Recipe Creator:
Crunchy, tangy, salty and sweet, this open-faced peanut butter pickle sandwich hits all your cravings. —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor
Nutrition Facts:
1 open-faced sandwich: 207 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1223mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
33/34
Lemon Cranberry Quinoa Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
As the family cook, I appreciate how easy this is to throw together on a busy weeknight. Plus, this salad never gets boring. One of my favorite variations is to substitute diced fresh mango for the cranberries, cilantro for the parsley, and lime for the lemon juice and zest. —Mary Shenk, DeKalb, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 218 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 370mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 5g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat.
34/34
Beef Teriyaki Noodles
From the Recipe Creator:
At our house, we love to combine fresh ingredients with a pantry product. This version starts with beef, onions, peppers and mushrooms, since we always have them on hand, but make the dish your own—bring out your inner chef! —Richard Robinson, Park Forest, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 403 calories, 20g fat (5g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 541mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein.
Cheap Lunch Ideas FAQ
What are the best affordable lunch recipes to bring to work?
The best affordable lunch recipes to bring to work include sandwiches, wraps, pasta salads, soups and rice bowls made with staple ingredients like canned beans, tuna, eggs and seasonal vegetables. These meals are easy to prep, travel well and hold up during the work day. Many easy lunch recipes, including soups or grain salads, can be made ahead and packed into containers for quick, budget-friendly lunches throughout the week. If your lunch includes dressing, keep it separate to help everything from getting soggy.
Are there easy budget lunches I can make ahead?
Burritos, pasta bakes, grain bowls and cold noodle salads are all easy, budget-friendly lunches that can be made ahead in big batches and kept in the fridge for several days. These meals are often built from affordable staples like rice, beans and pasta, and are bulked up with leftover roasted vegetables or meat. If you are packing lunch, many simple make-ahead work lunch recipes reheat well or taste great cold, making them practical choices for busy weeks.
What affordable lunch recipes will my kids eat?
Many affordable lunches that kids enjoy include grilled cheese, quesadillas and simple pastas. These kids’ lunch ideas rely on familiar flavors and favorite ingredients that aren’t too spicy or intense. Try changing the shape for variety, like rolling a sandwich into a pinwheel, turning a frittata into bite-size muffins or assembling PB&J on a stick. Let kids help pack their own meals to get them excited about eating lunch.
