Lunch can feel like a daily puzzle, can't it? Between busy mornings, picky eaters, and the constant question of "What's for lunch?", it's easy to get stuck in a sandwich-and-chips rut.
But don’t worry—I’ve got your back! I've rounded up 25 cheap and easy lunch ideas that kids actually love (yes, even those picky little eaters). Whether you’re packing lunchboxes for school or prepping quick meals at home, these simple, budget-friendly ideas will save your sanity and bring some fun back into lunchtime.
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Also, don’t forget to download and print this FREE meal planning printable I created just for you!
No sign-up is required to grab your copy—but if you’d like it sent straight to your inbox (so you don’t lose it!) and want to receive more money-saving tips, simply enter your email in the form below.
25 Cheap Lunch Ideas for Kids
1. The Bagel Lunch Box
Photo Credit: Budget Bytes
A fun and satisfying lunch with bagel halves, hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices. It’s really easy to throw together, and you can switch things up with whatever your kids enjoy. It makes a balanced, fresh lunch that’s great for school or weekend outings. Check out recipe here.
2. The Peanut Butter Lunch Box
Photo Credit: Budget Bytes
This no-cook lunch box is a breeze to assemble and perfect for busy mornings. It mixes sweet and savory favorites like apple slices, pretzels, celery, and dates with a hearty scoop of peanut butter for dipping. It’s filling enough for lunch and easy to pack for school or on-the-go.
3. Easy Pasta Salad
Photo Credit: Love and Lemons
This pasta salad is perfect for easy, packable lunches. It uses everyday ingredients like pasta, veggies, and a simple dressing, keeping it budget-friendly and stress-free. Kids love it because it’s a mix of crunchy, creamy, and flavorful bites in every spoonful.
4. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Veggie Burgers
Photo Credit: Minimalist Baker
These veggie burgers are filling, flavorful, and made with simple, affordable ingredients like sweet potatoes and beans. You can make a bunch at once and freeze some for later—a huge time and money saver. Kids enjoy them because they’re soft, flavorful, and easy to eat on their own or in a bun.
5. Sweet Potato Salad
Photo Credit: Love and Lemons
With cozy, roasted sweet potatoes, leafy greens, and a sprinkle of cheese, this salad feels hearty without being heavy. It’s great cold, so it’s lunchbox-friendly and super easy to prep ahead. Plus, the sweet-savory combo is something most kids really go for.
6. Healthy Baked Chicken Nuggets
Photo Credit: The BakerMama
Looking for a healthier twist on a kids’ all-time favorite? These baked chicken nuggets are the perfect choice, giving you all the crunch and flavor without the added grease from frying. Packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients, they’re a nutritious and fun lunch for your little ones.
7. Healthy Taco Salad
Photo Credit: Love and Lemon
Taco salad is always a hit thanks to the crunchy chips, creamy beans, and all the bright veggies. It’s playful and familiar, so kids don’t even realize they’re getting a healthy dose of greens. Bonus—it’s budget-friendly and endlessly customizable with what you have on hand. Check out the full recipe here.
8. Peanut Slaw with Soba Noodles
Photo Credit: Cookie and Kate
This colorful noodle slaw is kid-friendly and full of crunchy, tasty veggies. It’s budget-friendly, especially if you use what you already have in the fridge. Easy to pack and fun to eat, it makes lunchtime feel a bit more exciting. Get the full recipe here.
9. Smashed Chickpea and Avocado Salad Sandwich
Photo Credit: Two Peas & Their Pod
Think of this as a healthier version of a tuna sandwich! Mashed chickpeas and creamy avocado make a yummy, filling mix that’s also packed with protein. It’s really quick to throw together, and it's an affordable lunch option your kids will love. Get the full recipe here.
10. Cheese Quesadilla
Photo Credit: Feel Good Foodie
Quick, delicious, and a kid favorite, this Cheese Quesadilla is ideal for any busy day. It’s incredibly easy to make, saving you time while keeping little ones happy. The warm, cheesy goodness is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a perfect no-fuss meal when you need something simple and satisfying.
11. Egg Florentine Toasted Sandwich
Photo Credit: Healthy Green Kitchen
A Florentine sandwich might sound fancy, but this version is cheap, quick, and satisfying. Made with budget-friendly staples like eggs, spinach, and whole-grain bread, this sandwich a wholesome lunch that comes together fast—perfect for busy weekdays or tossing into a lunchbox. Kids love the warm, cheesy, savory flavor, so it’s an easy, healthy win all around.
12. Homemade Mac and Cheese
Photo Credit: Delish
Mac and cheese is pure comfort in a bowl—creamy, cheesy, and simply irresistible. It’s a quick, easy meal that brings joy to the table with every bite. Plus, it’s filling and a timeless kid favorite, making for a satisfying lunch that keeps kids energized throughout the day. Check out the recipe here.
13. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Photo Credit: Love and Lemons
Grilled cheese sandwich is a simple, comforting favorite that never gets old. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and delivers the perfect crispy, cheesy combination. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or an easy meal on a full afternoon, this classic sandwich is a great choice for kids.
14. Overnight Sausage Egg and Cheese Stuffed Bread Strata
Photo Credit: Garlic & Zest
Looking for another easy, delicious lunch that kids will actually enjoy? This cheesy bread strata is sure to please with its warm, cheesy layers and simple ingredients. It’s quick to make, affordable, and a comforting meal that’s perfect for little ones who love a satisfying, cheesy bite.
15. Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Quesadillas
Photo Credit: Just a Pinch Recipes
Scrumptious, easy, and wholesome, these quesadillas are a clever way to sneak in veggies without any fuss. Made with tender chicken, shredded cheese, soft tortillas, and a colorful mix of vegetables, they offer a satisfying crunch and melty goodness that kids love. The vibrant colors and irresistible flavors make lunchtime fun and exciting, leaving your little ones happily coming back for more.
16. Soft Pretzel Bites
Photo Credit: Sally’s Baking Addiction
These easy-to-make soft pretzel bites are a fun, hands-on lunch that kids absolutely love. With just a few pantry staples, you can create golden, soft treats perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own. They’re simple yet feel like a warm, homemade delight fresh from the oven.
17. Quick and Easy Egg Salad Sandwich
Photo Credit: Simply Recipes
This fun and simple meal features chopped hard-boiled egg mixed with creamy mayonnaise and a hint of seasoning, all tucked between slices of soft bread. It’s a warm, hearty, and simple dish to make—perfect for lunchboxes or busy weekdays. Budget-friendly and delicious, it’s sure to keep kids happy and full. Get the recipe here.
18. Mini Pizzas on English Muffins
Photo Credit: The Cookie Writer
A classic favorite in a smaller, easy-to-pack form—what’s not to love? Made with just a few everyday ingredients like spaghetti sauce and cheese, these mini pizzas are budget-friendly and quick to prepare. They’re a stress-free, grab-and-go lunch that kids will surely enjoy.
19. Healthy Chicken Salad
Photo Credit: The Wooden Skillet
Your kids will enjoy this vibrant, healthy chicken salad, loaded with juicy chicken, crispy veggies, and a zesty dressing that brings everything together. It’s a refreshing, flavorful meal that’s both filling and nutritious. Best of all, it’s quick to whip up and makes a great lunch on the go. Click here for the recipe.
20. Sloppy Joes
Photo Credit: Once Upon a Chef
These sloppy joes are a colorful, flavorful twist on a classic—ground beef, tender onions, and sweet bell peppers simmered in a savory sauce and spooned neatly into soft buns. The balanced flavors and warm, toasty texture make them especially satisfying for little appetites. It’s an easy, comforting meal kids will look forward to every time.
21. Ham and Cheese Sandwich
Photo Credit: Delish
Ham and cheese sandwiches make a classic and comforting lunch for kids, with savory slices of ham and melted cheese nestled between soft slices of bread. The combination of salty ham and creamy cheese creates a mild, satisfying flavor that’s easy to enjoy. It’s a simple, wholesome meal that’s both filling and delicious. Click here for the recipe.
22. Homemade Ham and Cheese Pockets
Photo Credit: Sally’s Baking Addiction
Homemade ham and cheese pockets are a delightful, satisfying lunch that combines the comforting warmth of melted cheese and savory ham in a tender, golden crust. They’re easy to make and easy for kids to enjoy, making lunchtime hassle-free and fun. Perfectly convenient and freezer-friendly, they’re ideal for lunchboxes or quick bites at home.
23. Tuna Melt
Photo Credit: Well Plated
If you’re looking for a lunch that’s quick, budget-friendly, and a kids’ favorite, tuna melt checks every box. With just a can of tuna, cheese, and bread, you can whip up a warm, satisfying meal in minutes. This fuss-free version of a classic sandwich offers all the familiar, comforting flavors kids love and always look forward to. Click here for the recipe.
24. Cheesy Corn Hotdish
Photo Credit: Cheap Recipe Blog
Cheesy corn hotdish is a comforting meal made with simple pantry staples like canned corn, shredded cheese, and cream soup. It’s quick to throw together and bakes in one dish, making cleanup easy. Kids love its creamy, cheesy taste, and it’s hearty enough to keep them full through the afternoon.
25. Grilled Chicken Broccoli Wraps
Photo Credit: Feel Good Foodie
If you’re looking for an easy and affordable lunch for kids, these grilled chicken broccoli wraps definitely deserve a spot on your list. Filled with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and soft tortillas, this meal is simple yet delicious. What’s more, it's a fun pick for busy lunchtimes when you want something healthy and flavorful.
There you have it—25 cheap lunch ideas for kids! With these budget-friendly ideas, you'll keep your kids smiling and your wallet happy. Here's to stress-free lunches!
