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    Home / Roundups

    21 Cheap Lunches You Didn’t Know Could Be This Simple

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Oct 21, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    We all know how quickly lunch costs can add up, but making something budget-friendly doesn't have to be complicated. These cheap lunches are not only easy to put together, but they also make life simpler by saving you both time and money. I love meals that are affordable and effortless, and these options hit the mark perfectly!

    Close-up of a spoon holding creamy mac and cheese garnished with green onions.Pin
    Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    Broccoli Cheese Soup

    A bowl of creamy broccoli cheese soup beside fresh broccoli and shredded cheese, with a slow cooker in the background.Pin
    Broccoli Cheese Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Broccoli cheese soup is a budget-friendly choice, combining simple ingredients like broccoli and cheese for a comforting lunch. It's an easy dish to prepare, with minimal steps involved. This soup stretches basic pantry items, making it an affordable and filling option for lunch. You can enjoy a warm, hearty meal without spending much. Serve with a slice of bread for an extra layer of comfort.
    Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheese Soup

    Navy Bean and Ham Soup

    A bowl of bean soup with chunks of ham and diced vegetables, served in a rustic terracotta bowl with a spoon on the side.Pin
    Navy Bean and Ham Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Navy bean and ham soup is perfect when you're looking to use inexpensive ingredients for a hearty meal. Leftover ham and a few pantry staples create a filling dish that's incredibly easy to throw together. It's an ideal option for anyone seeking a cost-effective, no-fuss lunch. The combination of beans and ham makes it satisfying without breaking the bank. Enjoy with a side of bread or crackers.
    Get the Recipe: Navy Bean and Ham Soup

    Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

    A bowl of pasta with shrimp and tomatoes.Pin
    Shrimp and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Shrimp and tomato pasta is a simple, affordable meal that turns a few basic ingredients into a flavorful lunch. Using shrimp adds a touch of something special, but the dish remains budget-friendly and easy to make. With tomatoes providing freshness, this pasta dish comes together with little effort. It's perfect for those wanting a seafood option without the expense. Serve with a side salad for a complete lunch.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

    Hawaiian Roll Sliders

    A close-up image of a platter of ham and cheese slider sandwiches sprinkled with poppy seeds and garnished with chopped herbs.Pin
    Hawaiian Roll Sliders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Hawaiian roll sliders offer a fun, inexpensive way to make lunch with minimal effort. Using affordable ingredients like deli meats or leftover chicken, these sliders come together quickly and easily. They're perfect for anyone looking for a simple yet filling meal that doesn't break the bank. Plus, they're versatile and can be made with what you already have in the kitchen. Pair with a side for a complete lunch.
    Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Sliders

    Crock Pot Chili for Two

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

    Crock pot chili for two is an easy and budget-conscious option for lunch. Made with affordable ingredients like beans and ground meat, this meal is both filling and inexpensive. The simplicity of the recipe allows for minimal effort, making it great for those looking for a no-hassle meal. Ideal for keeping lunch cheap without sacrificing flavor. Serve with cornbread or crackers for a complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chili for Two

    Cranberry Brie Grilled Cheese Sandwich

    Grilled cheese sandwich with melted cheese and cranberry sauce on a wooden board.Pin
    Cranberry Brie Grilled Cheese Sandwich. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This cranberry brie grilled cheese sandwich offers a unique twist on a simple and budget-friendly lunch. Using basic bread and leftover ingredients like cranberry sauce, it's both cost-effective and quick to prepare. Brie adds a touch of creaminess, but the meal remains inexpensive and easy to put together. It's perfect for when you want something a little different without spending a lot. A satisfying, wallet-friendly option for lunch.
    Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Grilled Cheese Sandwich

    Crab Fried Rice

    A bowl of fried rice with vegetables and crab meat.Pin
    Crab Fried Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Crab fried rice is a surprisingly simple and budget-friendly meal, perfect for lunch. Using a small amount of crab and leftover rice, this dish stretches ingredients without much expense. It's easy to prepare and doesn't require many ingredients, making it a smart choice for those looking to save money. This flavorful dish feels special while still keeping things affordable. Great for a quick and easy lunch.
    Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

    Popcorn Chicken

    A bowl of golden brown popcorn chicken on a table.Pin
    Popcorn Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Popcorn chicken is a quick, easy, and affordable lunch option that's fun to eat. Using simple, inexpensive ingredients, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to keep things budget-friendly. It's easy to prepare and can be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Great for those who want a quick, no-fuss lunch without breaking the bank. Enjoy with dipping sauces for added flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

    Wet Burrito

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

    Wet burritos are a cost-effective, hearty lunch option that's easy to prepare with basic ingredients. This dish stretches inexpensive items like beans, ground meat, and tortillas into a filling meal. The simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for anyone looking to keep lunch both affordable and satisfying. It's a great option for when you want a little more substance without the high cost. Serve with a side of rice or chips for a complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Wet Burrito

    Crock Pot Cabbage Soup

    A bowl of hearty tomato-based soup with cabbage.Pin
    Crock Pot Cabbage Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Crock pot cabbage soup is a budget-friendly lunch that uses inexpensive ingredients to create a flavorful and filling meal. Cabbage is an affordable vegetable that stretches well in soups, making this dish perfect for anyone looking to save money. The simplicity of this recipe means you can throw it together with minimal effort. Ideal for a low-cost, easy lunch. Enjoy with some bread for a more complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Cabbage Soup

    Chopped Greek Salad

    A fresh greek salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, cucumbers, olives, and peppers, served with a fork and a glass of water on the side.Pin
    Chopped Greek Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Chopped Greek salad is a light, budget-friendly lunch option that's easy to prepare. Using simple, inexpensive ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, it's both refreshing and affordable. It's perfect for those looking to keep lunch simple and cheap without sacrificing freshness. Easy to throw together with whatever you have on hand. A great option for a quick, no-fuss meal.
    Get the Recipe: Chopped Greek Salad

    Frito Chili Pie

    A plate of Fritos topped with ground beef, cheese, tomatoes, beans, and green onions.Pin
    Frito Chili Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Frito chili pie is a fun and affordable lunch that's easy to assemble with basic ingredients. Using Fritos, chili, and cheese, this dish turns pantry staples into a filling meal. It's perfect for those looking to make lunch without spending a lot of money or effort. The ingredients come together quickly, making it a great choice for a cheap, satisfying lunch. A simple, cost-effective option for busy days.
    Get the Recipe: Frito Chili Pie

    Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

    A pot of Italian vegetable stew with a spoon, garnished with chopped green herbs, on a white tablecloth with a small bowl of parsley on the side.Pin
    Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Ciambotta is an Italian vegetable stew that's both budget-friendly and simple to make. Using a variety of affordable vegetables, this stew stretches ingredients into a hearty, flavorful lunch. It's perfect for anyone looking to make a filling meal with little cost or effort. A great way to use up leftover vegetables while keeping lunch inexpensive. Serve with bread for a more substantial meal.
    Get the Recipe: Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

    Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

    A ladle serving vegetable soup with tomatoes, potatoes, and green peas into a white bowl, with a blurred bowl in the background.Pin
    Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Slow cooker vegetable soup is an easy, cost-effective lunch option that uses basic ingredients. Vegetables, broth, and a few pantry staples come together in this simple recipe. It's perfect for making ahead and reheating for several cheap lunches. Ideal for those looking to save money while keeping things healthy and easy. Pair with a side of bread for a complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

    Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

    A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker.Pin
    Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Crock pot mac and cheese is a cheap and comforting lunch that's easy to prepare. Using pantry staples like pasta and cheese, this meal comes together with minimal effort. It's perfect for when you want something warm and filling without spending much. Great for a no-fuss, affordable meal that can be made in bulk. Enjoy with a side of veggies or salad.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

    Ground Pork Tacos

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

    Ground pork tacos are a simple, budget-friendly lunch option that's easy to make with basic ingredients. The ground pork cooks quickly and can be paired with tortillas and whatever toppings you have on hand. It's a versatile dish that keeps costs low while still providing a flavorful meal. Great for anyone looking to make lunch without much effort or expense. Serve with rice or beans for a complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

    Crock Pot Tomato Soup

    Top view of a bowl of creamy tomato soup garnished with basil, served with a spoon and sunglasses on the side.Pin
    Crock Pot Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Crock pot tomato soup is a cheap and comforting lunch that uses simple ingredients like canned tomatoes and broth. This easy recipe requires little effort, making it perfect for those looking to save time and money. It's a great way to enjoy a warm, hearty meal without spending much. Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich for an even more filling lunch. A budget-conscious option that's full of flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Tomato Soup

    Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

    A single barbecued chicken skewer on a white plate, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a parsley garnish, next to a plate of additional chicken skewers.Pin
    Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Chicken skewers in the air fryer are a quick and budget-friendly lunch option that's easy to prepare. Using affordable cuts of chicken and simple seasonings, these skewers come together with little effort. They're perfect for anyone looking to keep lunch light and affordable without much hassle. Pair with a side of rice or veggies for a more complete meal. A simple, low-cost option for busy days.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

    Chicken Nuggets

    Hand dipping a chicken nugget into a bowl of ketchup, with a gray cloth background.Pin
    Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Chicken nuggets are a fun, budget-friendly lunch option that's easy to make with simple ingredients. Whether homemade or frozen, these nuggets are perfect for a quick meal that doesn't cost much. They're great for pairing with a variety of dipping sauces and sides, making them versatile and affordable. Perfect for anyone looking for a cheap, no-fuss lunch. Serve with fries or a small salad for a complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

    Minestrone Soup with Sausage

    Minestrone Soup with Sausage in white bowl with spoonful.Pin
    Minestrone Soup with Sausage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Minestrone soup with sausage is a budget-friendly lunch that uses affordable ingredients to create a hearty, filling meal. The sausage adds flavor to this simple vegetable soup, making it a more substantial option without increasing the cost. It's an easy dish to prepare with pantry staples, making it perfect for keeping lunch cheap and satisfying. Serve with bread for an extra filling meal.
    Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

    Broccoli Salad with Bacon

    Broccoli salad with bacon bits on a white oval plate, accompanied by a wooden serving spoon on a linen napkin.Pin
    Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Broccoli salad with bacon is a simple and inexpensive lunch option that's easy to prepare. The broccoli provides a healthy base, while the bacon adds a bit of flavor without much cost. It's perfect for anyone looking to make lunch without spending too much. This salad is versatile and can be made with ingredients you already have on hand. A great way to keep lunch light, affordable, and full of flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

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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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    A woman in a green shirt stands in a kitchen holding a bowl of strawberries.

    Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm a cookbook author who has been creating recipes for over a decade. I'd like to show you how easy it is to downsize your cooking for one or two people.

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