While some may claim that you can’t have it all – cheap, easy, and delicious – I’m here to prove them wrong. In fact, there are countless ways to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank or sacrificing precious time. And that’s exactly what this collection of recipes is designed to do.
Whether you’re in need of a quick dinner solution, inspiration for lunch, or a midday snack to keep you going, these thirty-one recipes offer something for everyone. So why wait?
Dive on in and discover the secrets to saving time and money without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Honey Garlic Chicken
For a satisfying and stress-free midweek meal, look no further than this classic recipe. Inspired by the flavors of Asia, this honey and garlic chicken dish combines earthy and sweet notes to tantalize your taste buds. With its ease of preparation, simplicity, and delicious flavor profile, it’s perfect for both meal-prepping and a quick dinner solution. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving: Calories: 803, Fats: 23g, Protein: 47g, Carbs: 105g, Fiber: 4.1g, Sugar: 26g.
Healthy Chicken Burrito Bowls
This recipe for healthy chicken burrito bowls is a testament to the fact that affordable and effortless meals can also be nutritious. With its blend of colorful vegetables and lean protein, it makes for an excellent midday meal option.
One of the best aspects of this dish is its convenience – simply prep the ingredients in advance and take them with you to work or school without any fuss. And the best part?
It only takes 30 minutes to prepare, yielding four healthy portions that can be easily portioned out for a week’s worth of lunches.
Teriyaki Chicken Meal Prep
One of my go-to dishes is Teriyaki chicken, which I love for its simplicity and versatility. The sauce requires just a few readily available condiments, making it an easy addition to any meal. When paired with gut-friendly broccoli and fluffy white rice, this dish offers a well-rounded balance of nutrients. Feel free to enjoy it at lunch or dinner (or even breakfast if you’re feeling adventurous), as it’s suitable for any time of day.
Baked Herb Chicken Breasts with Couscous Meal Prep
This meal prep recipe offers a nutritious and satisfying lunch option. With only 633 calories per serving, it’s an ideal solution for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. The baked chicken breasts are particularly impressive, featuring almost no oil in their preparation. Instead, the herby seasoning provides all the flavor needed. The result is tender, juicy, and incredibly delicious. This recipe stands out as one of my personal favorites among all the meals I’ve created.
In addition to its many benefits, this recipe also provides a boost of 61g of protein per serving, along with 56g of carbohydrates, 7.5g of fiber, and just 9.7g of sugar. These numbers make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a balanced meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something new or simply looking for inspiration, this baked meal prep recipe is sure to please.
Instant Pot Spicy Chicken with Quinoa
Instant Pot meal prep has never been easier or more nutritious! With just 25 minutes of your day, you can create a deliciously balanced recipe that’s perfect for busy schedules. Here are the key stats per serving: Calories – 767, Fats – 11g, Protein – 65g, Carbs – 104g, Fiber – 30g, and Sugar – 12g. This meal is not only mouth-watering but also meets dietary requirements, being dairy-free, gluten-free, and macro-friendly.
The lean chicken, red kidney beans, and quinoa combination ensures a super filling dish that’s great for your gut health as well.
Orange Chicken Meal Prep
Indulge in a nutritious and flavorful orange chicken meal prep recipe, boasting a delightful balance of 662 calories per serving. This culinary delight is characterized by its sweet and citrusy flavor profile, making it an ideal substitute for takeout cravings. The dish can be easily paired with a variety of sides, from classic broccoli and white rice to more adventurous options like fried noodles or edamame. With a breakdown of 15g fats, 62g protein, 71g carbohydrates, 6.
1g fiber, and 21g sugar per serving, this recipe offers a well-rounded culinary experience.
Lemon Chicken with Veggies Meal Prep
This nourishing summer-friendly meal prep dish is a perfect blend of healthy vegetables and satisfying proteins. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful lemon chicken recipe that’s bursting with fresh flavors. The combination of lean protein from the chicken and sweet potato is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and the earthy tones of roasted broccoli.
With minimal dishes required and an impressive nutrient profile, this quick and easy meal prep recipe checks all the boxes for a guilt-free summer.
Mexican Red Bean Quinoa Casserole
Indulge in the bold flavors of Mexico with this nutritious quinoa casserole, boasting an impressive nutritional profile per serving: 560 calories, 18g of fat, 27g of protein, 77g of carbohydrates, 14g of fiber, and 15g of sugar. While it may take a tad longer to prepare, the hands-on time is relatively brief at about fifteen minutes. This casserole is a healthy twist on traditional Mexican cuisine, incorporating all your favorite spices in one delicious, satisfying dish.
Chickpea Salad with Cucumbers and Tomatoes
With only 556 calories per serving, this salad offers a nutritious and filling option for both side dishes and main meals. Each serving provides a boost of protein with 16g, along with 32g of healthy fats and 58g of complex carbohydrates. Additionally, the fiber content is substantial at 15g, while sugar levels are relatively low at 17g. This light and refreshing salad is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just minutes to assemble.
Its excellent refrigeration properties also make it a great choice for meal prep or when you need a quick salad solution on hand.
Spicy Chickpea Meal Prep
Whether you’re short on time or just need a nutritious meal option, this spicy chicken recipe has got you covered. With an impressive 736 calories per serving, including 32g of fats, 30g of protein, and 89g of carbs, it’s a well-rounded meal that will keep you fueled. The fiber content is also notable at 24g, with minimal sugar to boot. What’s more, the addition of parsley adds a bright, summery flavor that complements the rich chickpeas perfectly. And the best part?
It only takes twenty minutes to prepare! This recipe is one of my top picks for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Seafood Fried Rice
When it comes to utilizing leftover rice, this seafood fried rice recipe is a game-changer. With just 376 calories per serving, you’ll be enjoying a nutritious and filling meal without breaking the bank. The breakdown is as follows: 12g of fats, 27g of protein, 39g of carbs, 3g of fiber, and only 2g of sugar. This recipe is incredibly versatile – simply substitute cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist or swap out the seafood for another meat to alter the flavor profile.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or looking for a quick and easy lunch solution, this seafood fried rice recipe is an excellent choice.
Lebanese Red Lentil Soup
With a mere 30-minute preparation time, this warm and comforting Lebanese red lentil soup is a perfect example of how to create a delicious meal using only the pantry staples you already have at home. This recipe’s nutritional profile per serving reveals a satisfying combination of macronutrients: 257 calories, 4g of fats, 15g of protein, 42g of carbohydrates, and a generous helping of fiber (18g) and natural sugars (6g).
Creamy Italian Sausage
Indulge in the warmth of this comforting creamy Italian sausage dish, perfect for a cozy evening. With 531 calories per serving, each bite packs a punch of nutrients: 21g of fats, 27g of protein, and 61g of carbohydrates. Additionally, you’ll get 7g of fiber and 14g of sugar to balance it out. This crowd-pleaser is ideal for an end-of-week meal when energy levels are low and ingredients are scarce. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables to make it a nutritious fall dinner option.
Tortellini Bake
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our scrumptious pasta bake! This delectable dish boasts stuffed tortellini for an added layer of flavor, expertly paired with melted cheese and rich tomato sauce. And the best part? It’s a breeze to prepare, utilizing pre-made elements that will save you valuable time and energy. Here are the details: per serving, this mouthwatering meal packs in 427 calories, 24g of fat, 23g of protein, 30g of carbs, 4g of fiber, and a moderate 5g of sugar.
Pasta with Tomato Sauce
With minimal ingredients and prep time, pasta with tomato sauce is the ultimate go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe requires just a few staples, making it perfect for when your pantry is running low. In fact, you can have this comforting dish ready in under 15 minutes – ideal for after-school snacks or a speedy lunch.
Tuna Pesto Pasta
When it comes to whipping up a quick and delicious meal on a tight budget, tuna proves to be a reliable and protein-rich option. To elevate the flavor, a bright and tangy pesto sauce does wonders. This versatile dish is perfect for any season, requiring mere minutes of prep time. For added convenience, consider picking up pre-made pesto to streamline your cooking process.
Nutritionally speaking, one serving yields 218 calories, comprising 12g of fat, 8g of protein, 19g of carbohydrates, and a negligible amount of sugar. With a fiber content of just 1g, this dish is a great way to get your daily dose of nutrients.
Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas
Indulge in the comfort of quesadillas, a satisfying treat that’s perfect for any season. With each bite, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of melted cheese, sweet corn kernels, and crispy texture. At 563 calories per serving, this recipe is not only delicious but also provides a substantial amount of protein (26g), fats (32g), and complex carbohydrates (43g). Additionally, it’s a good source of dietary fiber (4g) and natural sugar (4g).
Whether you’re in the mood for a warm hug on a chilly day or a light meal to fuel your summer activities, this ultimate quesadilla recipe has got you covered.
Baked Ravioli Casserole
The nutritional breakdown for this delectable dish is as follows: per serving, you can expect approximately 510 calories, with 28g of fats, 37g of protein, 27g of carbohydrates, and a modest 3g of fiber. The sugar content comes in at a relatively low 7g. When it comes to pasta bakes, ravioli takes the experience to new heights by adding an extra layer of flavor and texture with its stuffed pasta.
This recipe is particularly useful for elevating store-bought ravioli, which can sometimes lack a certain je ne sais quoi. By whipping up this dish and baking it to a golden brown perfection, you’ll be treated to a culinary delight that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta
This mouthwatering pasta dish boasts an impressive nutritional profile per serving: 413 calories, 38g of fats, 6g of protein, 13g of carbs, 1g of fiber, and just 2g of sugar. When you harmonize the flavors of lemon and garlic, you can’t go wrong. The combination yields a creamy sauce base that tantalizes both comfort food lovers and those seeking something light and refreshing.
Take it to the next level by topping with a sprightly handful of fresh herbs – this summer-perfect dish is sure to impress.
5 Bean Salad
A nutrient-rich 5-bean salad that’s packed with 330 calories, 8g of fat, 18g of protein, 52g of carbohydrates, 17g of fiber, and just 4g of sugar per serving. Whether you’re seeking a satisfying side dish or a quick snack, this recipe is a winner. Initially, I was skeptical about the appeal of bean salads, but after creating one myself, I was hooked. The combination of flavors, textures, and protein content won me over.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare – simply assemble all the ingredients in just five minutes and you’re good to go!
Chicken Noodle Casserole
This indulgent casserole dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also budget-friendly. With its rich flavor profile, courtesy of the right sauce and melted cheese, even the humblest ingredients can be elevated to new heights. The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with various soup options, cheeses, leftover proteins, or even veggies. Whether you’re tracking calories or just looking for a satisfying meal, this casserole hits the spot.
For more 500-calorie meal ideas, check out our other recipes!
Chickpea and Lentil Curry
A serving of this curry recipe contains approximately 376 calories, with a breakdown of 16g of fat, 17g of protein, 47g of carbohydrates, and a fiber-rich 14g. Sugary content stands at 8g. Inspired by Indian cuisine, we encourage you to give this chickpea and lentil curry a try! For optimal results, consider using dried chickpeas and lentils that have been soaked for a few hours.
Not only are they budget-friendly and long-lasting, but they also offer a cost-effective alternative for those on a tight budget. Alternatively, canned lentils and chickpeas can be used as a quick substitute.
Cream Cheese Pasta
In terms of nutritional information, this cream cheese pasta dish per serving yields a substantial 772 calories. The breakdown is as follows: 34g of fat, 23g of protein, 93g of carbohydrates, with 4g and 9g of fiber and sugar respectively. What’s more, the simplicity of its ingredient list means that it can be whipped up in no time, making it an ideal solution for a quick Friday night pick-me-up.
To balance out the richness of the pasta, consider topping it with some fresh herbs and adding a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra burst of flavor.
Busy Day Soup
When it comes to nutritional information per serving, this busy-day soup delivers. Each serving contains 230 calories, with a balance of 3.1g of fats, 22.1g of protein, 28.5g of carbohydrates, and a notable 5.1g of fiber. Additionally, the sugar content is relatively low at 5g. This hearty soup makes for an excellent meal prep option or quick solution for busy weeknights. Its rich and nutritious profile is reminiscent of a comforting minestrone, minus the fuss.
One of its greatest strengths lies in its ability to utilize any leftover vegetables languishing in your crisper drawer, making it the perfect way to clear out your fridge at the end of the week.
Creamy Chicken Ramen Soup
This lightning-quick lunch option is a game-changer, delivering not only convenience but also impressive nutritional stats. Per serving, you can expect:* Calories: 704* Fats: 38g* Protein: 33g* Carbs: 56g* Fiber: 4g* Sugar: 2gWhile speed is often a compromise on taste, this creamy chicken ramen soup defies expectations. With just a few easy-to-transport ingredients and a microwave, you can whip up a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and delicious.
Slow Cooker Chinese Chicken Curry with Noodles
A single serving of this slow cooker meal delivers a nutritional profile that’s hard to ignore: 727 calories, 30g of fat, 58g of protein, and 57g of carbohydrates. Fiber and sugar levels come in at 5g and 18g, respectively. What makes these numbers even more impressive is the ease with which they can be customized. Load up your slow cooker with a medley of vegetables or add some extra protein to make this meal truly your own.
This high-protein crockpot recipe is an ideal solution for a busy home office worker or anyone in need of a stress-free weekend dinner that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Black Bean Tostadas
When it comes to nutritional information per serving, here’s what you can expect from this delightful Mexican dish: 572 calories, with 40g of fats, 14g of protein, and 44g of carbohydrates. Additionally, each serving provides a good amount of fiber (15g) and sugar (3g). Tostadas are often overlooked, but they deserve more attention! They can be thought of as flat-fried tacos, making them an excellent canvas for your preferred protein.
This meal is perfect for those looking for a simple yet satisfying option, including vegetarians or vegans who want a hassle-free dinner.
Lentil Bolognese
With a nutritional breakdown that’s just as impressive as its flavor profile, this lentil bolognese recipe is a true showstopper. A single serving delivers 434 calories, 8g of fats, 18g of protein, and 74g of carbs, with an added boost of 14g of fiber and 9g of sugar. And despite being a vegetarian option, this dish is anything but bland – the rich pasta sauce, packed with plant-based protein, coats perfectly cooked spaghetti for a satisfyingly filling meal.
Broccoli Rice Casserole
When it comes to meal prep, having a reliable go-to recipe can be a lifesaver. This particular dish delivers on comfort and convenience, boasting an impressive nutritional profile per serving: 378 calories, 23g of fats, 16g of protein, 27g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 5g of sugar. With its golden baked cheese crust adding a satisfying crunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal prep arsenal.
Feel free to mix things up by adding extra veggies, but honestly, it’s perfectly satisfying just the way it is – a true testament to the power of simplicity!
Vegan Cabbage Soup
This cabbage soup recipe shines a positive light on an often-maligned dish, showcasing its rich, refreshing flavor without the notorious stink. With a surprisingly low calorie count of 189 per serving, this nutritious and delicious soup is also incredibly affordable. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies for a personalized twist!
Ramen Noodle Salad
With just 346 calories per serving, this ramen noodle dish is an unlikely yet nutritious option. A single serving contains 19g of fats, 7g of protein, and 39g of carbohydrates, making it a well-rounded meal choice. Additionally, it provides 3g of fiber and only 10g of sugar, making it a great option for those looking to balance their macronutrients.
When combined with broccoli, shaved almonds, and red onion for added texture and flavor, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palate. To take it to the next level, top it with a sweet and spicy sauce for an extra kick. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or just looking for inspiration, these 31 meals are designed to delight and inspire without breaking the bank.