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    Home / Collections

    17 Lunches Made at Home That Skip the Lines and Save Cash

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Feb 29, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    Mexican chicken enchiladas on a white plate.

    Tired of the lunchtime hustle, waiting in lines, and burning a hole in your pocket? Join me on a journey to discover the joy of homemade lunches that not only skip the lines but also save you some hard-earned cash. From quick bites to hearty meals, let's explore the delicious world of home-cooked lunches, making midday dining a delightful and budget-friendly affair. Say goodbye to the cafeteria lines and hello to a tastier, cost-effective lunchtime experience!

    Chicken burrito with sauce and sour cream on a white plate.

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    Crock Pot Chili for Two

    Crock Pot Chili served in two white bowls with spoon.
    Crock Pot Chili for Two. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Simplify your lunch routine with Crock Pot Chili for Two, a hearty and budget-conscious option. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying chili. With a manageable portion size, this recipe is perfect for smaller households looking to save time and money on their daily meals. The ease of preparation and rich flavors make it a practical choice for everyday savings.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chili for Two

    Hawaiian Roll Sliders

    Ham and cheese sliders on a plate.
    Hawaiian Roll Sliders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Ideal for a quick and satisfying lunch, Hawaiian Roll Sliders are a wallet-friendly choice that doesn't compromise on taste. The preparation is straightforward, and the use of Hawaiian rolls adds a touch of sweetness to the dish. Perfect for those seeking a hassle-free yet delicious meal, these sliders cater to the need for both convenience and budget-consciousness.
    Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Sliders

    Chopped Greek Salad

    A colorful chopped Greek salad in a white bowl.
    Chopped Greek Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Enjoy a refreshing and budget-friendly lunch with the Chopped Greek Salad. With its vibrant mix of fresh ingredients, this salad provides a satisfying and nutritious option without the need for extensive preparation. The simplicity of chopping and tossing makes it a practical choice for those looking to save time without compromising on flavor, offering a delightful and light meal for everyday savings.
    Get the Recipe: Chopped Greek Salad

    Popcorn Chicken

    Popcorn chicken in bowl with one piece cut to show inside.
    Popcorn Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A classic crowd-pleaser, Popcorn Chicken is a practical and budget-friendly option for everyday lunches. With its quick cooking time and uncomplicated preparation, this dish caters to those seeking a hassle-free meal without sacrificing taste. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a main course, these bite-sized delights provide a satisfying and economical choice for daily meals.
    Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

    Ground Pork Tacos

    Two pork tacos on a white plate with lime wedges.
    Ground Pork Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Providing a wallet-friendly twist to the traditional taco, Ground Pork Tacos are an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying lunch. The ease of cooking ground pork and assembling the tacos makes this recipe accessible to all skill levels. With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, these tacos offer a practical solution for those looking to save time and money on their daily meals.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

    Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot

    Two tacos on a plate with a bowl of guacamole.
    Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A fuss-free and wallet-friendly option, Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in a Crock Pot simplify your lunch routine. The slow cooker takes care of the cooking process, requiring minimal effort on your part. With tender chicken and customizable toppings, these tacos offer a practical and satisfying meal for everyday savings without compromising on taste.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot

    Easy Potato Soup

    Potato soup in a white serving bowl.
    Easy Potato Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A comforting and wallet-friendly choice, Easy Potato Soup is a go-to option for those seeking a quick and hearty lunch. The simplicity of ingredients and the ease of preparation make this soup a practical solution for everyday savings. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a side, this soup provides a satisfying and budget-conscious meal without compromising on flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Potato Soup

    Broccoli Salad with Bacon

    Broccoli Salad with bacon on a plate.
    Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    For a quick and flavorful lunch, turn to Broccoli Salad with Bacon, a practical and budget-friendly option. The combination of crisp broccoli and savory bacon creates a satisfying dish without the need for elaborate preparation. With a straightforward assembly process, this salad offers a convenient choice for those looking to save time without sacrificing taste, making it an ideal option for everyday savings.
    Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

    Navy Bean and Ham Soup

    Navy Bean and Ham Soup in a serving crock.
    Navy Bean and Ham Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    For a comforting and budget-conscious lunch, Navy Bean and Ham Soup are a reliable choice. The slow-cooking process infuses flavors seamlessly, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. With minimal hands-on time, this soup is ideal for those looking to save time without sacrificing a home-cooked feel to their meals, making it a practical option for everyday savings.
    Get the Recipe: Navy Bean and Ham Soup

    Wet Burrito

    Chicken wet burrito with salsa and sour cream on a white plate.
    Wet Burrito. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A hearty choice for an everyday meal, the Wet Burrito is a time-efficient solution with a simple preparation process. Packed with flavors and satisfying textures, this budget-friendly option brings a Mexican twist to your lunch routine. The convenience of assembling and baking makes it an ideal choice for those looking to save time without compromising on taste.
    Get the Recipe: Wet Burrito

    Turkey Roll Ups

    A plate of turkey wraps with tomatoes and lettuce.
    Turkey Roll Ups. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Offering a delightful combination of flavors, Turkey Roll Ups are a simple and budget-friendly choice for everyday lunches. The ease of rolling up turkey and assorted ingredients makes this recipe accessible for all. With a quick preparation time, these roll-ups provide a practical solution for those looking to save time without sacrificing taste, ensuring a satisfying and hassle-free meal.
    Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Ups

    Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

    Chicken wings on a plate with lemon wedges.
    Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Crispy and flavorful, Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings make for a practical and enjoyable lunch option. The straightforward cooking process and short preparation time make them suitable for everyday savings. The zesty lemon pepper seasoning adds a kick to the wings, creating a satisfying meal that doesn't require elaborate ingredients or excessive time in the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

    Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

    A bowl of soup in front of a slow cooker.
    Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Simplify your lunch routine with the Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup, a practical and budget-friendly option. The slow cooker does the work for you, resulting in a flavorful and hearty soup. With minimal preparation and a variety of vegetables, this soup offers a satisfying and nutritious meal without the need for extensive kitchen time, making it an excellent choice for everyday savings.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce.
    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    When it comes to a convenient and speedy lunch, Air Fryer Chicken Tenders fit the bill perfectly. The air fryer ensures a quick cooking time while maintaining a crispy texture. With a straightforward preparation process, these chicken tenders offer a budget-friendly option for those looking to save time without sacrificing taste.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Air Fryer Tuna Melt

    A grilled cheese tuna sandwich is cut in half on a plate.
    Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Elevate your lunch with the Air Fryer Tuna Melt, a convenient and budget-friendly choice. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while melting the cheese to perfection. With a quick cooking time and straightforward preparation, this tuna melt provides a satisfying and flavorful meal for everyday savings, making it an ideal option for those looking to enjoy a delicious lunch without breaking the bank.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

    Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

    Bbq chicken skewers on a white plate.
    Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    With minimal effort and a short cooking time, these Chicken Skewers Kabobs in the Air Fryer offer a delightful lunch option that won't break the bank. The air fryer ensures a quick and efficient cooking process, making it a practical choice for busy days. The combination of tender chicken and assorted veggies on a stick provides a balanced and tasty meal for everyday savings.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

    Chicken Nuggets

    Air fryer chicken nuggets on plate with ketchup.
    Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A classic favorite for all ages, Chicken Nuggets are a reliable and affordable choice for everyday lunches. With their quick cooking time and uncomplicated preparation, these nuggets cater to those seeking a hassle-free meal without compromising on flavor. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a dipping sauce, they make for a practical and budget-conscious option for daily meals.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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