Want to save money without sacrificing delicious meals? Meal prepping is one of the smartest ways to cut down on food costs while still enjoying tasty, homemade dishes.
By planning ahead, you can avoid pricey takeout, reduce food waste, and make the most of your grocery budget.
But let’s be real—meal prep can still get expensive, especially if you’re using premium ingredients like steak.
That’s why I’ve put together 15 cheap meal prep ideas that are both affordable and packed with flavor. Ready to eat well for less? Let’s dive in!
Vegan Goulash

Per Serving:
- Calories: 388
- Fats: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 82g
Meal Prep Roasted Tofu

Per Serving:
- Calories: 371
- Fats: 27g
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 9g
Chipotle Chickpea Taco Bowls

Per Serving:
- Calories: 312
- Fats: 11g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 38g
Low Carb Greek Chicken Meal Prep Bowls

Per Serving:
- Calories: 287
- Fats: 15g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 7g
Mexican Red Bean Quinoa Casserole Meal Prep

Per Serving:
- Calories: 560
- Fats: 18g
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 77g
Cajun Chicken Thighs Meal Prep

Per Serving:
- Calories: 811
- Fats: 58g
- Protein: 50g
- Carbs: 23g
Buddha Bowl Recipe

Per Serving:
- Calories: 496
- Fats: 16g
- Protein: 19g
- Carbs: 70g
Meal Prep Sweet Potato Hash

Per Serving:
- Calories: 352
- Fats: 16g
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 26g
Teriyaki Chicken Meal Prep

Per Serving:
- Calories: 626
- Fats: 6g
- Protein: 57g
- Carbs: 80g
Meal Prep Buffalo Chickpea Salad

Per Serving:
- Calories: 240
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Carbs: 42g
Roasted Veggies Meal Prep Bowls

Per Serving:
- Calories: 254
- Fats: 13g
- Protein: 13g
- Carbs: 25g
Spicy Pineapple Chicken Meal Prep

Per Serving:
- Calories: 324
- Fats: 10g
- Protein: 31g
- Carbs: 29g
Instant Pot Meal Prep Quinoa Burrito Bowl

Per Serving:
- Calories: 351
- Fats: 14g
- Protein: 13g
- Carbs: 50g
Slow Cooker Carnitas Burrito Bowls

Per Serving:
- Calories: 700
- Fats: 31g
- Protein: 39g
- Carbs: 84g
Mediterranean Inspired Grain Bowl Meal Prep

Per Serving:
- Calories: 490
- Fats: 24g
- Protein: 16g
- Carbs: 51g