15 Cheap Meal Prep Recipes You’Ll Love

Meal prep doesn’t have to drain your wallet! This collection of 15 budget-friendly meal prep recipes is perfect for anyone looking to eat well without breaking the bank. These tasty dishes are easy to make, designed to simplify your week, and will keep your taste buds happy. Let’s get cooking!

Hearty Vegetable Soup

This hearty vegetable soup is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner or meal prep! Bursting with flavors from fresh veggies and herbs, it’s both comforting and nutritious. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for clean eating meal prep.

With a combination of vibrant vegetables, this soup not only pleases the palate but also fills you up. It’s a fantastic option for vegetarian meal prep or anyone looking for healthy meal prep ideas. Let’s dive into the simple recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 cups spinach (or kale)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes and potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the spinach, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot or allow it to cool completely before storing in meal prep containers for the week!

Zesty Quinoa and Black Bean Salad

This Zesty Quinoa and Black Bean Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for meal prep. With protein-packed black beans and fluffy quinoa, it’s filling and satisfying. The vibrant flavors from fresh vegetables and zesty lime juice make it a delightful choice for anyone looking for healthy meal prep ideas.

Not only is this salad easy to whip up, but it also keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for lunch prep. Whether you’re following a clean eating meal prep plan or just need some vegetarian meal prep options, this salad checks all the boxes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and all water has been absorbed. Allow to cool.
2. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, corn, red onion, and cilantro.
3. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas are a delicious and vibrant meal that packs a punch of flavor. This easy-to-make recipe combines juicy chicken with colorful bell peppers and onions, all seasoned perfectly for a satisfying dish. Perfect for Clean Eating Meal Prep, these fajitas can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner, making them a great choice for busy weeks.

This recipe not only tastes amazing but also requires minimal effort. Simply toss everything on a sheet pan, roast it in the oven, and you’re done! It’s an excellent option for anyone looking for Healthy Meal Prep Ideas that are both quick and tasty.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large sheet pan, combine the chicken strips, bell peppers, and onion.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure an even coating.
4. Spread the mixture out in an even layer and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your Clean Eating Lunch!

Savory Chickpea Stir-Fry

This Chickpea Stir-Fry is bursting with flavor and is super easy to make, making it a favorite for meal prep. It combines tender chickpeas with fresh vegetables, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for Clean Eating Meal Prep, this recipe is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The combination of spices and herbs brings a delightful taste that will make your taste buds dance. It’s versatile, allowing you to mix and match vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Plus, it’s an ideal choice for Clean Eating Lunch or Vegetarian Meal Prep!

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooked brown rice or quinoa for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in the chickpeas, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Finally, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
5. Serve over cooked brown rice or quinoa and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Egg Fried Rice with Peas

Egg Fried Rice with Peas is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and easy on the wallet. Packed with flavor, the combination of fluffy rice, tender peas, and scrambled eggs creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day. This recipe is not only quick to whip up but also allows for plenty of customization, making it a favorite for meal prep.

Whether you’re looking for a nutritious vegetarian meal prep option or a healthy meal prep idea, this dish fits the bill. The clean eating aspect comes from using simple ingredients, and it makes for a fantastic lunch prep. Give it a try, and you’ll find it’s a staple in your meal prep rotation!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers

Instructions

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
2. Push the rice to one side of the skillet. Crack the eggs into the empty space, scrambling them until fully cooked. Once done, mix the eggs into the rice.
3. Add the frozen peas and chopped green onions, stirring everything together. Drizzle with soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using additional vegetables, add them now and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Remove from heat and serve warm or pack into meal prep containers for your lunches!

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

This creamy tomato basil pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s perfect for those looking for easy meal prep recipes that are both satisfying and budget-friendly. With its smooth, creamy sauce, it’s a comforting meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.

Simple to make and packed with flavor, this pasta dish is a great choice for clean eating lunch prep. You can whip it up in no time, making it an ideal option for busy weekdays or meal prep enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a vegetarian meal prep or just want a quick, healthy meal, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of rotini pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat.
4. Finish with Basil: Stir in the fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another minute until heated through.
5. Serve: Enjoy warm, garnished with additional basil and Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish is great for clean eating meal prep—just store in the fridge and reheat when ready to enjoy!

Taco Lentil Bowls

Taco lentil bowls are a fantastic option for anyone seeking a quick, nutritious meal. These bowls combine the earthy flavors of lentils with zesty taco seasoning, making for a satisfying dish that’s both filling and delicious. Perfect for lunch prep or as healthy meal prep ideas, they can easily be customized with your favorite toppings.

With minimal cooking time and simple steps, you can whip these bowls up in no time. Whether you follow a vegetarian diet or just want a clean eating meal prep option, taco lentil bowls fit the bill beautifully. Load them up with fresh veggies like tomatoes and avocados, or keep them simple for an easy meal prep recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry lentils (green or brown)
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Lentils: Rinse lentils and place them in a pot with vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Prepare the Base: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
3. Add Seasoning: Stir in the cooked lentils, taco seasoning, corn, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the lentil mixture among bowls. Top with avocado slices and garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve: Enjoy your taco lentil bowls with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor!

Curry Chickpeas with Spinach

Curry Chickpeas with Spinach is a simple and delightful dish that packs a punch of flavor. The chickpeas are tender and hearty, while the spinach adds a vibrant freshness. This recipe is perfect for meal prep meals, making it easy to enjoy clean eating lunches throughout the week.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also budget-friendly. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for healthy meal prep ideas that are filling and satisfying. Below is a straightforward recipe to get you started!

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can coconut milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Stir in the curry powder and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chickpeas and coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Fold in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve over cooked rice for a complete meal. Enjoy your clean eating meal prep!

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

If you’re looking for a tasty and fulfilling meal, these sweet potato and black bean tacos are a fantastic choice. They’re packed with flavor and provide a perfect blend of textures, making them satisfying without being heavy. Plus, they’re super easy to throw together, making them ideal for meal prep.

The sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the earthiness of black beans, creating a delicious combination. These tacos are not only vegetarian but also make for a clean eating option that fits into any healthy meal prep plan. Great for lunch prep, they can be made ahead and enjoyed throughout the week!

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes or until tender.
2. Warm the black beans in a small saucepan over low heat, seasoning with additional spices if desired.
3. Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, warm the tortillas either on a skillet or in the microwave.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing a generous spoonful of sweet potatoes and black beans on each tortilla. Top with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Vegetable Stir-Fried Noodles

Vegetable stir-fried noodles are a delightful and colorful dish that brings together a medley of fresh veggies and savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for anyone seeking quick, satisfying meals that won’t break the bank. With its vibrant mix of ingredients, it’s not only pleasing to the eye but also packed with nutrients.

Making these noodles is a breeze! Simply toss your favorite vegetables with cooked noodles in a hot skillet, add some seasonings, and voilà! You have a tasty, filling dish ready in no time. This vegetarian meal prep option is ideal for clean eating, and it works great for lunch prep too.

Ingredients

• 8 oz egg noodles or any noodles of choice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sugar snap peas
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: In a pot of boiling water, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic, bell pepper, broccoli, sugar snap peas, and carrot. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
3. Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the pan along with soy sauce and sesame oil. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your healthy and colorful meal!