Delicious, budget-friendly meals perfect for families, students, or anyone looking to save!
Lunchtime doesn’t have to mean expensive takeout or boring sandwiches. With just a little planning, you can create delicious, satisfying, and budget-friendly lunches for less than $5 per serving. These recipes are simple to prepare and perfect for busy families, workers, or students looking to save money without sacrificing flavor.
1. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup (Under $3)
A classic comfort food that’s both satisfying and affordable.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of bread
- 2 slices of cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup tomato soup (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Butter one side of each bread slice and place cheese between the unbuttered sides.
- Grill until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve with heated tomato soup on the side.
📌 Tip: Use store-brand bread and cheese for extra savings.
2. Rice and Bean Burritos (Under $2 Each)
A simple and filling lunch that’s easy to prepare in large batches.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup cooked black beans
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese
- 1 large tortilla
Instructions:
- Layer rice, beans, and cheese on the tortilla.
- Roll tightly and microwave for 30 seconds to melt the cheese.
📌 Tip: Cook rice and beans in bulk to save time and money.
3. Veggie Stir-Fry with Rice (Under $4)
A quick and versatile dish packed with veggies and flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oil
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a skillet and sauté vegetables until tender.
- Add cooked rice and soy sauce, stirring well.
📌 Tip: Use frozen vegetables for added convenience and savings.
4. Turkey and Cheese Wraps (Under $3 Each)
A simple, handheld lunch that’s perfect for on-the-go meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 large tortilla
- 2 slices turkey
- 1 slice cheese
- 1 lettuce leaf
Instructions:
- Lay turkey, cheese, and lettuce on the tortilla.
- Roll tightly and slice in half for easy eating.
📌 Tip: Swap turkey for leftover roasted chicken to save even more.
5. Egg Salad Sandwiches (Under $2 Each)
A protein-packed classic that’s easy to make in advance.
Ingredients:
- 2 hard-boiled eggs
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 slices of bread
Instructions:
- Mash hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise.
- Spread on bread slices and assemble the sandwich.
📌 Tip: Buy eggs in bulk to reduce the cost per serving.
6. Lentil Soup (Under $1.50 per Serving)
A hearty and nutritious lunch that’s perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery)
Instructions:
- Combine lentils, broth, and vegetables in a pot.
- Simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
📌 Tip: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for future meals.
7. Homemade Pizza (Under $4 per Pizza)
A customizable lunch that’s fun to make and share.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Optional toppings: veggies, meats
Instructions:
- Spread marinara sauce over the crust.
- Top with cheese and your choice of toppings.
- Bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes.
📌 Tip: Use leftover vegetables or meats for toppings to save money.
8. Pasta Salad with Veggies (Under $3 per Serving)
A refreshing and easy-to-make lunch that’s perfect for warm days.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup diced vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cucumbers)
- 1/4 cup vinaigrette
Instructions:
- Toss cooked pasta with vegetables and vinaigrette.
- Chill before serving.
📌 Tip: Use frozen or seasonal vegetables for added savings.
9. Chickpea Salad Wraps (Under $2 Each)
A vegetarian-friendly option that’s full of flavor and protein.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup chickpeas, mashed
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tortilla
Instructions:
- Mix mashed chickpeas with mayonnaise.
- Spread on a tortilla, roll, and enjoy.
📌 Tip: Buy dried chickpeas and cook them yourself for even cheaper meals.
10. Baked Potatoes with Toppings (Under $3 Each)
A versatile and hearty lunch option that’s easy to customize.
Ingredients:
- 1 large potato
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tbsp sour cream
- Optional: green onions
Instructions:
- Bake potato at 400°F for 45 minutes.
- Add cheese, sour cream, and other toppings.
📌 Tip: Batch cook several potatoes to save time during the week.
Quick Reference Table: Easy Lunch Recipes Under $5
| Lunch Idea | Cost Per Serving | Money-Saving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup | <$3 | Use store-brand bread and cheese. |
| Rice & Bean Burritos | <$2 | Cook in bulk and freeze portions. |
| Veggie Stir-Fry with Rice | <$4 | Opt for frozen or discounted vegetables. |
| Turkey & Cheese Wraps | <$3 | Substitute turkey with homemade roasted chicken. |
| Egg Salad Sandwiches | <$2 | Buy eggs in bulk to save more. |
| Lentil Soup | <$1.50 | Prepare large batches and freeze leftovers. |
| Homemade Pizza | <$4 per pizza | Use leftover veggies and meats as toppings. |
| Pasta Salad with Veggies | <$3 | Use frozen vegetables for added savings. |
| Chickpea Salad Wraps | <$2 | Buy dried chickpeas for a cheaper option. |
| Baked Potatoes with Toppings | <$3 | Batch cook potatoes for quick lunches. |
Conclusion
Eating delicious, satisfying meals doesn’t have to break the bank. These 10 easy lunch recipes prove that you can create flavorful and budget-friendly dishes with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick lunch at home, these recipes are guaranteed to please.