29 Meal Prep Recipes That Let Me Stay on Budget and Keep Them Fed
Meals got easier, cheaper, and way less dramatic with this set of 29 recipes. No more last-minute scrambles or mystery containers in the back of the fridge. The food actually got eaten, which felt like a small miracle. Even better, I wasn’t glued to the kitchen every night trying to make it happen.

Crunchwrap Supreme

Looking for a quick and filling meal? Crunchwrap Supreme offers a fun and easy-to-make option for any busy day. You can fill it with whatever you have on hand. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies everyone at the table without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme
French Onion Soup

When you need something comforting, French Onion Soup is a solid choice. It’s a simple recipe that always delivers without needing much effort. It’s easy to prep in advance, making busy days easier. A great meal when you need to keep costs down.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup
Easy Bibimbap

Easy Bibimbap is a great go-to for when you want a fulfilling dish without much hassle. It’s simple, quick, and easy to throw together. This one can be made ahead for meal prep without losing its appeal. Great for keeping meals both affordable and filling.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap
Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

You can’t go wrong with Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders for an easy, budget-friendly meal. They’re simple to prep and have a nice balance of flavors. This dish works for lunch or dinner, and it’s easy to adjust based on what you have. It’s perfect for meal prepping without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
Kimchi Stew

Kimchi Stew offers a punch of flavor without costing a lot. It’s perfect for a hearty, budget-conscious meal that holds up well when made in advance. This dish is warm and comforting but doesn’t require too much to make. It’s great for feeding a crowd on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew
Easy Cornbread Casserole

With Easy Cornbread Casserole, you get a filling, no-fuss meal. It’s perfect for meal prep and pairs well with almost anything. This casserole is an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on taste. You can easily stretch it for several meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole
Three Cheese Manicotti

This dish is a great choice when you need something that feels indulgent yet budget-friendly. Three Cheese Manicotti is hearty, filling, and easy to prep in advance. The blend of cheese provides richness without breaking the bank. It’s the kind of meal that keeps everyone happy and well-fed.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti
Korean Burgers

Want something a bit different for your next meal prep? Korean Burgers are a fun twist on a classic favorite, bringing bold flavors to the table. They are quick to prepare and perfect for packing ahead. The burger patties are fulfilling and easy to customize to your liking.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers
Ravioli Casserole

Ravioli Casserole is a family-friendly dish that is simple to make and store for multiple meals. It’s comforting, filling, and can be easily adjusted to fit a tight budget. The layers of ravioli make it hearty without being overly complicated. Perfect for meal prepping with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole
Hot and Sour Soup

Looking for a soup that packs a punch? Hot and Sour Soup is both tangy and comforting, with the right balance of heat and tang. It’s quick to make and easy to store for later meals. This soup is the perfect addition to your meal prep lineup when you need something with a little kick.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup
Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice Baked Potatoes are a great option when you want something simple but fulfilling. They can be prepped ahead of time and stored for multiple meals. With the potatoes stuffed and baked twice, this dish is filling enough to stand on its own. It’s perfect for meal prepping on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes
Hamburger Casserole

This casserole offers a comforting combination of familiar ingredients, all in one dish. It’s a great option when you’re looking for something easy to prepare and filling. Hamburger Casserole is versatile and perfect for making ahead. You’ll appreciate how well it holds up for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole
Tom Yum Soup

If you’re craving something with bold, spicy flavors, Tom Yum Soup is a solid pick. It’s an affordable, tangy, and slightly spicy option that’s perfect for meal prep. This soup comes together quickly, making it a great addition to your regular rotation. It’s a dish that keeps well in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup
Ice Cream Cake

Ice Cream Cake is a fun and sweet treat for when you need something a little special. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for making ahead to have ready when you need it. The layers of ice cream and cake provide the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. It’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake
White Chicken Chili

When you need a comforting, filling meal that’s easy to prep, White Chicken Chili is a great choice. It’s a hearty dish that doesn’t take much time to prepare, and it stores well. This chili is a crowd-pleaser and keeps everyone full and satisfied. It’s simple, straightforward, and reliable.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili
Italian Pasta with Salami

Looking for a quick and budget-friendly meal that’s still delicious? Italian Pasta with Salami is an easy-to-make dish that’s full of fulfilling textures. It’s simple to prepare in advance and makes a filling meal for any day of the week. Plus, it holds up well in the fridge for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami
Garlic Knots

Garlic Knots are the perfect side or snack when you need something quick and easy. They’re simple to make in batches, so you can keep them on hand for a few days. The garlic and buttery flavor make them a favorite in any meal prep lineup. They pair well with pretty much anything, too.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots
Easy Chicken Tenders

These tenders are a straightforward choice for meal prep, especially when you need something that the kids will actually eat. They’re quick to make and store well in the fridge. Easy Chicken Tenders are perfect for sandwiches, salads, or just as a main dish. You’ll appreciate how simple they are to prep.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders
Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

If you’re looking for something flavorful but still budget-friendly, Jamaican Red Beans and Rice is a great choice. It’s a hearty dish that’s packed with flavor, yet doesn’t cost much to make. This dish is ideal for prepping in advance and storing for a few days. It’s a great way to keep meals simple and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice
Korean Corn Dogs

Looking for a quick snack that’s fun and filling? Korean Corn Dogs offer a crispy coating and hearty interior that hits the spot every time. Whether you’re craving something savory or just want to mix up your routine, these are a great go-to. A fun meal prep option that keeps things exciting and on budget.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs
Hashbrown Casserole

When you need something easy and fulfilling, Hashbrown Casserole delivers. This dish can be prepped ahead of time and stored for a busy week. It’s great for feeding a crowd without stressing over the details. A practical choice that lets you stay on track without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole
Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

If you’re looking to make lasagna without all the fuss, Easy Air Fryer Lasagna is the way to go. This recipe saves you time while still giving you that comforting layered goodness. It’s perfect for meal prepping on a budget with minimal ingredients. A simple yet reliable dish to keep everyone full and happy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Lasagna
Dinner Rolls

You can’t go wrong with Dinner Rolls when it comes to rounding out a meal. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and quick to prepare for any occasion. They make meal prep a breeze while still offering that homemade touch. Plus, they don’t require much to make, keeping things affordable.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls
Easy Chicken Casserole

Easy Chicken Casserole is a perfect solution when you need to feed a family on a budget. This one-dish meal packs in comfort without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. It’s simple to make, easy to store, and sure to keep everyone full for hours. A no-fuss recipe that’s a winner every time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole
Crunchy Onion Rings

When you’re craving something crispy, Crunchy Onion Rings are a solid pick. They give you that fulfilling crunch without the need for deep frying. Prepping these in advance saves time on busy days and keeps things affordable. A fun side dish that pairs well with nearly anything.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings
Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken brings bold flavors without complicating the cooking process. It’s easy to prepare and makes for great leftovers throughout the week. A go-to option for meal prepping that stays within budget. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table, every time.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Easy Meatloaf Recipe

If you need something hearty and quick, Easy Meatloaf Recipe is a solid choice. This dish is perfect for meal prep and stays tasty all week long. It’s simple to make and won’t cost you a lot of money. Plus, it’s a comforting dish that everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

These quesadillas are a great way to spice up your meal prep. They’re packed with flavor and easy to throw together for a quick bite. Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas are easy on the budget and full of satisfying ingredients. A great recipe to keep things exciting without spending too much.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas
Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in advance for easy meals all week. This comforting dish comes together quickly and is always a hit. It’s a simple recipe that can feed a lot without costing much. Perfect for keeping your meal prep game strong and your budget intact.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
About the Author

Hey there! I’m Mandy
Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.
She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.
She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.
