25+ Delicious Cheap Lunch Recipes That Won’t Break the Bank

Finding affordable, quick, and delicious meals can be a challenge, especially when you’re trying to eat well on a budget.

Whether you’re a student, a busy professional, or simply looking to save a few dollars, cheap lunch recipes are a lifesaver.

These meals are not only wallet-friendly but also satisfying, nutritious, and easy to prepare.

With a bit of creativity, you can whip up a variety of dishes that won’t break the bank and will keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day.

In this article, we’ve compiled 25+ cheap lunch recipes that are perfect for anyone looking for affordable and delicious meals.

From hearty sandwiches to savory salads, these recipes will make sure you never have to compromise on flavor while saving money.

25+ Delicious Cheap Lunch Recipes That Won’t Break the Bank

Eating on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or nutrition. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can prepare a variety of meals that are both affordable and satisfying.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a quick lunch idea, these 25+ cheap lunch recipes will help you stay full, fueled, and on track with your budget.

Try a few, and you’ll discover just how easy it is to make inexpensive lunches that everyone in your family will enjoy.

Don’t let a tight budget keep you from enjoying great food—these recipes prove that delicious meals don’t have to be expensive.

Easy Bean and Cheese Quesadillas

This simple bean and cheese quesadilla is a budget-friendly meal that’s both filling and tasty. With just a few ingredients, it’s perfect for a quick lunch when you’re in a pinch. The beans provide protein and fiber, while the cheese offers that melty goodness that everyone loves. You can also customize the fillings based on what you have in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup refried beans (or black beans)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 tbsp butter or oil for cooking
• Optional: salsa, sour cream, or avocado for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil to coat the bottom.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and spread a thin layer of beans over the top.
3. Sprinkle cheese evenly over the beans, then top with the second tortilla.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking, until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden brown.
5. Remove from the skillet, slice into wedges, and serve with salsa, sour cream, or avocado, if desired.

These quesadillas are a fantastic choice for a quick, low-cost lunch. With just a few basic ingredients, they come together in no time and offer a great combination of flavors and textures. They’re versatile enough to be customized to your taste, and adding extra toppings makes them even more satisfying. Plus, they’re perfect for using up any leftover beans or tortillas you may have in your pantry!

Tuna Salad Wraps

Tuna salad wraps are an easy and affordable lunch option that’s packed with protein and flavor. This no-fuss recipe uses canned tuna, mayonnaise, and basic veggies to create a delicious filling that can be wrapped up in a soft tortilla. It’s a satisfying meal that can be made in under 10 minutes, and you can easily adapt it to suit your personal tastes.

Ingredients:

• 1 can tuna (in water or oil, drained)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp mustard (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped celery or pickles (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large flour tortillas
• Lettuce leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, mustard (if using), and chopped celery or pickles. Stir until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
2. Lay the tortillas flat and place a lettuce leaf on each one, if desired.
3. Spoon the tuna salad mixture onto the center of each tortilla.
4. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly.
5. Slice the wrap in half and serve immediately, or wrap it up for later.

Tuna salad wraps are a perfect lunch solution for anyone looking for an inexpensive yet satisfying meal. The combination of protein-packed tuna and creamy mayo makes for a hearty filling, while the fresh crunch of celery or pickles adds texture. This recipe is great for meal prep, as it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. It’s a quick, nutritious, and budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice on taste.

Veggie Stir-Fry with Rice

A veggie stir-fry with rice is an excellent cheap lunch option that can be made with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Packed with color, flavor, and nutrients, this dish is simple to prepare and offers a wholesome meal that’s perfect for a midday break. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice or veggies, making it both frugal and eco-friendly.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or leftover rice works well)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup sliced bell pepper
• 1/2 cup sliced carrot
• 1/2 cup broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder or minced garlic
• Optional: a scrambled egg or tofu for extra protein

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
3. If you’re adding tofu or an egg, cook that separately in the pan and set it aside, then add to the stir-fry.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Stir everything together to heat through and allow the flavors to combine, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This veggie stir-fry is a fantastic, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for using up leftover ingredients. It’s a versatile recipe, and you can mix and match vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge. The soy sauce and garlic add a savory depth of flavor, while the rice provides a hearty base. This dish is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also a wholesome and satisfying meal that doesn’t break the bank.

Simple Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish that is simple, flavorful, and incredibly inexpensive to make. With just a few pantry ingredients like garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and pasta, you can whip up a quick and delicious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This dish is a perfect solution for a light yet satisfying lunch when you’re on a tight budget.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions in salted water. Once done, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking gently until the garlic turns golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with a bit of the reserved pasta water, and toss to coat the pasta in the garlic oil. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish, if desired.

This Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple, yet flavorful dish that proves you don’t need to spend a lot to make a delicious lunch. The olive oil and garlic infuse the pasta with rich, savory flavors, while the red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with additional toppings like Parmesan, olives, or anchovies, but even on its own, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal that can be prepared in under 20 minutes.

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly affordable. Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, making this soup filling and satisfying. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy and comforting lunch on a budget, and the recipe can easily be adjusted to suit your tastes or whatever vegetables you have on hand.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils (rinsed and drained)
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and garlic, and sauté until the vegetables are soft (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in the cumin and turmeric, allowing them to toast for 1 minute.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Lentil soup is a delicious and filling lunch option that’s perfect for anyone on a tight budget. The lentils provide a hearty base, while the spices and vegetables create a flavorful and comforting broth. This soup is great for meal prepping, as it stores well in the fridge for several days and can even be frozen for future meals. It’s a simple, nutritious, and satisfying way to get your fill of protein and fiber without breaking the bank.

Egg Salad Sandwich

An egg salad sandwich is a classic, low-cost lunch that is quick and easy to prepare. Eggs are packed with protein and make for a creamy, satisfying filling when mixed with mayo and mustard. This sandwich is perfect for a light yet filling lunch, and you can make it in just a few minutes with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 slices bread (whole wheat or white)
• Optional: lettuce or tomato for garnish

Instructions:

1. Hard boil the eggs by placing them in a saucepan with water, bringing it to a boil, and then simmering for 10-12 minutes. Once done, remove the eggs and let them cool.
2. Peel the eggs and chop them into small pieces.
3. In a bowl, combine the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the egg salad mixture onto one slice of bread, then top with the second slice to make a sandwich. Add lettuce or tomato for extra crunch, if desired.
5. Serve immediately, or wrap it up for a quick lunch on the go.

Egg salad sandwiches are a timeless, budget-friendly lunch that can be made with basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The creamy egg mixture is satisfying and provides a good amount of protein to keep you full throughout the day. Whether you enjoy it plain or with additional toppings like lettuce and tomato, this sandwich is versatile, easy to make, and an affordable option for lunch on a busy day.

Chickpea Salad

Chickpea salad is a simple and refreshing lunch option that’s both nutritious and budget-friendly. With canned chickpeas, vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this salad comes together quickly and is full of fiber and protein. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a side dish and can be customized with whatever vegetables you have in your fridge.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Chickpea salad is a light yet satisfying meal that’s packed with nutrients and easy to prepare. The chickpeas provide protein and fiber, while the fresh vegetables add crunch and vitamins. The tangy dressing ties it all together, making this salad a refreshing and healthy lunch that can be prepared in under 10 minutes. It’s also a great make-ahead option for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for several days, making it perfect for busy days.

Baked Sweet Potato with Black Beans

Baked sweet potatoes are a filling and nutritious base for a variety of toppings. This version, topped with black beans, is a budget-friendly, hearty lunch that’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein. The sweet potato provides a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory beans and seasonings, making for a delicious and balanced meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, or shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prick the sweet potatoes with a fork and rub them with olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until they are soft and easily pierced with a fork.
2. While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat the black beans in a saucepan over medium heat. Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Once the sweet potatoes are done, cut a slit down the center of each and fluff the insides with a fork.
4. Top the sweet potatoes with the seasoned black beans, and add optional toppings like salsa, sour cream, or cheese.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This baked sweet potato with black beans is a delicious, filling, and budget-friendly meal. The sweet potato offers a comforting and nutrient-packed base, while the black beans provide protein and fiber. The combination of spices adds a depth of flavor, and the optional toppings can give the dish a personalized touch. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also great for meal prepping, as it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a couple of days.

Peanut Butter Banana Toast

Peanut butter banana toast is a simple and nutritious lunch that’s both quick and affordable. With just a few ingredients, this snack or light lunch provides protein from the peanut butter and potassium from the banana, making it a satisfying and energizing meal. It’s perfect when you need something filling but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices whole-grain bread
• 2 tbsp peanut butter
• 1 banana, sliced
• Honey (optional)
• Cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Toast the slices of whole-grain bread until golden brown.
2. Spread peanut butter evenly on each slice of toast while still warm.
3. Arrange banana slices on top of the peanut butter.
4. Drizzle with honey for added sweetness and sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Peanut butter banana toast is a quick and satisfying lunch or snack that is perfect for busy days. The combination of peanut butter and banana is not only delicious but also packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized with additional toppings like honey or cinnamon for extra flavor. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a nutritious snack, this recipe is a simple, tasty, and affordable option.

Veggie Stir-Fry with Rice

A veggie stir-fry with rice is a fast and affordable lunch that’s both healthy and customizable. Using simple, inexpensive vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and onions, this dish comes together in no time. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and can be made with whatever vegetables you have on hand. The soy sauce adds a savory flavor, while the rice serves as a filling base for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the bell pepper, carrot, and onion, and cook for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Add the cold cooked rice to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice, tossing everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired, and serve.

This veggie stir-fry with rice is a quick, nutritious, and budget-friendly lunch option. It’s full of colorful vegetables that provide vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. The dish is easily adaptable to whatever ingredients you have in your kitchen, making it a great way to use up leftovers or empty out your fridge. Plus, it’s a complete meal with carbs, protein, and healthy fats, all while being simple to prepare in under 20 minutes.

Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps

Tuna salad lettuce wraps are a light and healthy lunch option that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Using canned tuna, mayo, and a few simple seasonings, you can quickly prepare a filling tuna salad. Wrapping the salad in fresh lettuce leaves adds crunch and reduces the calorie count compared to using bread. It’s a great low-carb alternative for those seeking a quick, nutritious meal on a budget.

Ingredients:

• 1 can tuna in water (5 oz), drained
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4-5 large lettuce leaves (such as Romaine or Iceberg)
• 1 tbsp relish (optional)
• 1/2 small cucumber, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, and relish (if using). Stir until well combined and season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Wash the lettuce leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Spoon the tuna salad mixture onto the center of each lettuce leaf.
4. Optionally, add thin slices of cucumber for extra crunch and freshness.
5. Wrap the lettuce around the tuna salad and serve immediately.

Tuna salad lettuce wraps are a quick, low-carb alternative to a traditional sandwich and make for a light yet filling lunch. The tuna provides protein, while the lettuce adds crunch without extra calories. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthy, low-cost option that’s easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you get a balanced, delicious meal that can be made in minutes and customized to your taste.

Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Pasta salad with Italian dressing is a simple, make-ahead lunch that is perfect for meal prepping. The pasta holds up well in the fridge, allowing the flavors of the vegetables and dressing to marinate. This dish is both refreshing and filling, with a good balance of carbs, veggies, and flavor. It’s ideal for busy days when you need a quick, no-cook meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (rotini or penne works well)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (optional, such as basil or parsley)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
3. Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta and toss everything to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve.

Pasta salad with Italian dressing is a versatile, budget-friendly lunch that’s perfect for hot days or busy weeks. The dish is easy to customize by adding or removing ingredients based on what you have on hand. It’s great for meal prepping, as it can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for several days. The pasta is filling, while the vegetables and Italian dressing add freshness and flavor, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal that requires minimal effort.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti aglio e olio is a simple, classic Italian pasta dish that’s both flavorful and budget-friendly. With just a handful of ingredients—garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and spaghetti—it’s quick to prepare and delivers on taste. Perfect for busy days, this dish uses pantry staples and requires minimal prep, making it an ideal lunch when you’re craving something satisfying without the hassle.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and golden brown (be careful not to burn the garlic).
3. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds, then toss in the drained pasta.
4. Stir to coat the pasta with the garlic and oil mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Spaghetti aglio e olio is the epitome of simple, yet delicious comfort food. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes provides bold, savory flavors without needing many ingredients. It’s an affordable dish that comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch. Whether you’re cooking for one or for the whole family, this pasta will satisfy your hunger without breaking the bank.

Veggie Quesadilla

A veggie quesadilla is a versatile and satisfying lunch that’s easy to make and perfect for using up leftover vegetables. With a few tortillas, cheese, and any vegetables you have on hand (like bell peppers, onions, or spinach), you can create a quick and flavorful meal. This dish is customizable and offers a great balance of carbs, protein, and fiber, all in a crispy, cheesy wrap.

Ingredients:

• 2 flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup spinach (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salsa and sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with a layer of cheese. Add the bell pepper, onion, and spinach (if using) on top of the cheese.
3. Place the second tortilla on top and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the bottom tortilla is golden brown.
4. Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side until crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Remove from the skillet and cut into wedges. Serve with salsa and sour cream if desired.

Veggie quesadillas are a quick, affordable lunch that can be customized based on what you have available. Whether you choose to fill them with just cheese or a variety of veggies, they are a great option for a light yet satisfying meal. The crispy tortillas and melted cheese provide comfort, while the veggies add nutrients and flavor. It’s a great way to use up leftover produce, and they can be made in just 15 minutes, making them a perfect go-to lunch for busy days.

Egg Salad Sandwich

An egg salad sandwich is a classic, easy-to-make lunch that’s both hearty and filling. With just boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and a few seasonings, you can make a creamy egg salad that pairs perfectly with soft bread. This simple dish offers protein from the eggs and can be served on whole-grain bread for added fiber, making it a balanced and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp mustard (optional)
• 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 slices bread (whole-grain or white)
• Lettuce or tomato slices (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mash the chopped hard-boiled eggs with a fork.
2. Add the mayonnaise, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Toast the bread if desired, then spread the egg salad evenly onto one slice.
4. Add lettuce or tomato slices if using, then top with the second slice of bread.
5. Serve immediately, or wrap the sandwich for later.

An egg salad sandwich is a simple, filling lunch that requires minimal ingredients yet delivers great flavor and texture. The eggs provide a solid protein base, while the mayo and mustard add creaminess and tang. Whether you enjoy it on toasted bread or fresh, this sandwich is a quick and satisfying option that’s perfect for busy days. It’s also very budget-friendly and can be made with just a few pantry staples, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking for an affordable and tasty lunch.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!