Creating cheap lunch catering ideas can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. With creativity and planning, you can create delicious and satisfying meals without breaking the bank.
In this article, we’ll show you 17 cheap lunch catering ideas that are delicious and satisfying, and budget-friendly. So, whether you’re planning an event or are in charge of office lunch, this article will provide the inspiration and tips you need to create an affordable and delicious menu.
1. Sandwich platters
Sandwich platters are a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. They’re also easy to transport and serve, and they can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
To make a sandwich platter, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need a variety of breads, meats, cheeses, and toppings. Some popular options include:
- Deli meats like turkey, ham, roast beef, and salami
- Cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, and provolone
- Toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and olives
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your sandwiches. You can either cut the bread in half and layer the ingredients on top, or you can make open-faced sandwiches. And once your sandwiches are assembled, arrange them on a platter or tray. You can also add some side dishes, such as potato salad, coleslaw, or pasta salad.
Sandwich platters are a great option for lunch catering for a few reasons:
- They’re affordable.
- They’re easy to transport and serve.
- They can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
- They’re a crowd-pleaser.
If you’re looking for an easy and cheap lunch catering option, consider making a sandwich platter. Your guests will love it!
2. Wrap platters
Wrap platters are a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. They’re also easy to transport and serve, and they can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
To make a wrap platter, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need a variety of tortillas, fillings, and toppings. Some popular options include:
- Tortillas: Flour, corn, whole wheat, or gluten-free
- Fillings: Chicken, beef, turkey, tofu, vegetables, cheese, hummus, avocado, etc.
- Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, olives, salsa, sour cream, etc.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your wraps. You can either spread a layer of filling on the tortilla and then add your toppings, or you can layer the fillings and toppings in the center of the tortilla and then roll it up. Once your wraps are assembled, arrange them on a platter or tray. You can add some side dishes, such as potato chips, fruit salad, or trail mix.
Wrap platters are a great option for lunch catering for a few reasons:
- They’re affordable.
- They’re easy to transport and serve.
- They can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
- They’re a crowd-pleaser.
Here are some additional tips for making wrap platters:
- Use a variety of tortillas to add interest and texture to your platter.
- Get creative with your fillings and toppings. There are endless possibilities!
- Make sure your wraps are evenly filled so that they don’t fall apart when you’re serving them.
- Serve your wrap platter with various dipping sauces, such as salsa, hummus, or guacamole.
- If you’re catering to a large group, consider making a few different types of wraps so everyone has something they’ll enjoy.
With some planning, you can easily make a wrap platter that everyone will love.
3. Salad bowls
Salad bowls are a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. They’re also a healthy and affordable option for meals, catering, and parties.
To make a salad bowl, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need a variety of fresh greens and vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and other ingredients. You can also add protein, such as chicken, tofu, fish, or meat. Some popular salad bowls include Caesar, Greek, and quinoa bowls.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your salad bowl. You can either put the greens in the bottom of a bowl and then add the vegetables and protein, or you can layer the ingredients more creatively. Once your salad bowl is assembled, add your dressing of choice. Some popular dressings include ranch, Caesar, and vinaigrette.
Salad bowls are a great option for meals, catering, and parties for a few reasons:
- Packed with nutrients and can help you reach your daily recommended intake of fruits and vegetables.
- Relatively inexpensive way to feed a crowd.
- Can customize your salad to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
- Easy to eat with one hand, making them a great option for parties and events where people will be mingling and eating simultaneously.
If you’re looking for a healthy and affordable option for meals, catering, or parties, consider making a salad bowl. Your guests will love it!
4. Pasta salads
Pasta salads are a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. They’re also easy to transport and serve, and they can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
To make a pasta salad, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need cooked pasta, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and a dressing of your choice. Some popular pasta salads include classic Caesar, Greek, and Caprese pasta salads.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your pasta salad. You can combine the ingredients in a large bowl or layer them more creatively. Once your pasta salad is assembled, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors to meld, and the pasta absorbs the dressing.
Pasta salads are a great option for meals, catering, and parties for a few reasons:
- Relatively inexpensive, and you can use whatever vegetables, meats, and cheeses you have.
- Easiest dishes to make, and they can be prepared ahead of time.
- Can customize your pasta salad to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
- Easy to eat with one hand, making them a great option for parties and events where people will be mingling and eating simultaneously.
5. Grilled chicken or vegetable skewers
Grilled chicken or vegetable skewers are a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
To make grilled chicken or vegetable skewers, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need chicken or vegetables, skewers, and a marinade or seasoning. Some popular marinades and seasonings include:
- Marinades: Teriyaki, lemon-pepper, Italian, etc.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, etc.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your skewers. You can thread the chicken or vegetables onto the skewers in a single layer or layer them more creatively. Once your skewers are assembled, cook them on a grill or pan until the chicken is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
Grilled chicken or vegetable skewers are a great option for meals, catering, and parties for a few reasons:
- They’re affordable.
- They’re easy to make.
- They’re customizable.
- They’re easy to eat.
Read More: 10 Cheap Catering Ideas For Any Event
6. Quiche or frittatas
Quiche and frittatas are a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. They’re also easy to make and transport, and they can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
To make quiche or frittata, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need eggs, cream, milk, and a filling. Some popular fillings include:
- Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, onions, etc.
- Meats: Ham, bacon, sausage, etc.
- Cheese: Cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, etc.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your quiche or frittata. You can use a pie crust for quiche or simply cook the filling in a skillet for the frittata. Once your quiche or frittata is assembled, bake it in a preheated oven until the eggs are set.
Quiche and frittatas are a great option for breakfast, brunch, lunch, catering, and parties for a few reasons:
- Eggs, cream, and milk are relatively inexpensive ingredients, and you can use whatever filling you have on hand.
- Quiche and frittatas are one of the easiest dishes to make, and they can be prepared beforehand.
- You can customize your quiche or frittata to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
- Quiche and frittatas are easy to eat with one hand, making them a great option for parties and events where people will be mingling and eating simultaneously.
7. Soups and stews
Soups and stews are a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. They’re also easy to make and transport, and they can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
To make soup or stew, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need a liquid base, such as broth or stock, and various ingredients, such as vegetables, meats, and grains. Soups range from clear broths to creamy and pureed, while stews are thicker and often contain chunks of meats and vegetables.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your soup or stew. You can cook the ingredients in a pot on the stove or in a slow cooker. Once your soup or stew is cooked, serve it in a bowl and pair it with bread or crackers for added texture. You can also add garnishes, such as shredded cheese, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream.
Soups and stews are a great option for meals, catering, and parties for a few reasons:
- Broth or stock, vegetables, and meats are relatively inexpensive ingredients, and you can use whatever you have on hand.
- Soups and stews are one of the easiest dishes to make, and they can be prepared ahead of time.
- You can customize your soup or stew to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
- Soups and stews are easy to eat with one hand, making them a great option for parties and events where people will be mingling and eating simultaneously.
8. Nacho or taco bars
Nacho and taco bars are a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. They’re also easy to make and transport, and they can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
To make a nacho or taco bar, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need chips, meats, cheeses, beans, salsa, guacamole, and various toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and sour cream.
Once you have your ingredients, set up your bar. You can put everything out on a buffet table or set up individual stations for each ingredient. Once your bar is set up, let your guests go to town! They can create their custom nachos or tacos, and they can choose whatever ingredients they like.
Nacho and taco bars are a great option for meals, catering, and parties for a few reasons:
- Chips, meats, cheeses, and beans are relatively inexpensive ingredients, and you can use whatever toppings you have on hand.
- Nacho and taco bars are one of the easiest dishes to make, and they can be prepared beforehand.
- You can customize your nacho or taco bar to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
- Nacho and taco bars are a great way to get your guests involved in the food prep process, and they can be a lot of fun for everyone.
9. Pizza or calzones
Pizza and calzones are a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. They’re also easy to make and transport, and they can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
To make pizza or calzone, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need dough, tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings, such as meats, vegetables, and herbs.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your pizza or calzone. You can either roll out the dough and top it with your favorite ingredients, or you can use a pre-made pizza crust. Once your pizza or calzone is assembled, bake it in a preheated oven until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pizza and calzones are great options for meals, catering, and parties for a few reasons:
- Dough, tomato sauce, and cheese are inexpensive ingredients, and you can use whatever toppings you have on hand.
- Pizza and calzones are one of the easiest dishes to make, and they can be prepared beforehand.
- You can customize your pizza or calzone to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
- Pizza and calzones are easy to eat with one hand, making them a great option for parties and events where people will be mingling and eating simultaneously.
10. Sliders or mini burgers
Sliders and mini burgers are a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. They’re also easy to make and transport, and they can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
To make sliders or mini burgers, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need ground beef, turkey, veggie patty, buns, and various toppings, such as cheese, lettuce, tomato, and condiments.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your sliders or mini burgers. You can either use pre-made slider buns or split regular hamburger buns in half once your sliders or mini burgers are assembled grill, or cook them in a pan until the patty is cooked through.
Sliders and mini burgers are a great options for meals, catering, and parties for a few reasons:
- Ground beef, turkey, buns, and toppings are relatively inexpensive ingredients, and you can use whatever you have on hand.
- Sliders and mini burgers are one of the easiest dishes to make, and they can be prepared beforehand.
- You can customize your sliders or mini burgers to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
- Sliders and mini burgers are easy to eat with one hand, making them a great option for parties and events where people will be mingling and eating simultaneously.
11. Hot dogs or sausages
Hot dogs and sausages are a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. They’re also easy to make and transport, and they can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
To make hot dogs or sausages, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need sausages, buns, and a variety of toppings, such as cheese, ketchup, mustard, relish, and sauerkraut.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your hot dogs or sausages. You can either cook the sausages in a pan or grill them, and then put them in a bun and top them with your favorite toppings.
Hot dogs and sausages are a great option for meals, catering, and parties for a few reasons:
- Sausages and buns are relatively inexpensive ingredients, and you can use whatever toppings you have on hand.
- Hot dogs and sausages are one of the easiest dishes to make, and they can be prepared ahead of time.
- You can customize your hot dogs or sausages to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
- Hot dogs and sausages are easy to eat with one hand, making them a great option for parties and events where people will be mingling and eating simultaneously.
12. Fried rice or stir-fry
Fried rice and stir-fry are a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. They’re also easy to make and transport, and they can be customized to suit any dietary preference.
To make fried rice, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need cooked rice, vegetables, meats, and eggs. You can also add other ingredients, such as soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili peppers.
Once you have your ingredients, start cooking your fried rice. Heat some oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the vegetables and cook until softened. Add the meats and cook until browned. Add the rice and cook until heated through. Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili peppers to taste.
To make stir-fry, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need meat, vegetables, and sometimes noodles. You can also add other ingredients, such as soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili peppers.
Once you have your ingredients, start cooking your stir-fry. Heat some oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the meat and cook until browned. Add the vegetables and cook until softened. Add the noodles and cook until heated through. Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili peppers to taste.
Fried rice and stir-fry are great options for meals, catering, and parties for a few reasons:
- Cooked rice, vegetables, and meats are relatively inexpensive ingredients, and you can use whatever you have on hand.
- Fried rice and stir-fry are one of the easiest dishes to make, and they can be prepared ahead of time.
- You can customize your fried rice or stir-fry to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
- Fried rice and stir-fry are flavorful and satisfying dishes that everyone will enjoy.
13. Grilled cheese and tomato soup
Grilled cheese and tomato soup is a classic comfort food combo that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, affordable and can be customized to fit any dietary preference.
To make grilled cheese, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need bread, cheese, and butter. You can add other ingredients, such as ham, bacon, or vegetables.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your grilled cheese. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place a slice of cheese on one slice of bread, butter-side down. Top with the other slice of bread, butter-side up.
Heat a pan over medium heat. Place the grilled cheese in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
To make tomato soup, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need tomatoes, onions, garlic, and other spices. You can also add other ingredients, such as cream or milk.
Once you have your ingredients, start cooking your tomato soup. Heat some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Add the tomatoes, spices, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and the soup has thickened.
Once the soup and grilled cheese are cooked, serve them together. Enjoy!
14. Macaroni and cheese
Macaroni and cheese are a classic comfort food perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, affordable and can be customized to fit any dietary preference.
To make macaroni and cheese, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need macaroni pasta, cheese, milk, and butter. Add other ingredients, such as bread crumbs, bacon, or vegetables.
Once you have your ingredients, start cooking your macaroni. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the macaroni. Cook according to the package directions or until the macaroni is al dente.
While the macaroni is cooking, start making your cheese sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth. Add the cheese and cook until melted and the sauce is thickened.
Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it and add it to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine.
Pour the macaroni and cheese into a baking dish and top with bread crumbs, bacon, or vegetables. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Once the macaroni and cheese are cooked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
15. Vegetable or fruit trays
Vegetable and fruit trays are a great way to add healthy and colorful options to your meals, catering, and parties. They’re also affordable and can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy people.
To make a vegetable tray, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need a variety of raw or lightly blanched vegetables, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. You can add other vegetables, such as celery, tomatoes, and radishes.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your tray. Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter. You can add a dip, such as a ranch dressing or hummus.
To make a fruit tray, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need a variety of fresh fruits, such as berries, melons, grapes, and citrus fruits. You can add other fruits, such as apples, bananas, and peaches.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your tray. Cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter. You can also add a garnish, such as mint leaves or edible flowers.
Vegetable and fruit trays are a great option for events because they can be made in advance and served at room temperature, making them easy to transport and serve. They’re also a great way to get your guests to eat fruits and vegetables!
Read More: 8 Cheap Breakfast Catering Ideas to Make Your Event Memorable
16. Cheese and cracker platters
Cheese and cracker platters are a simple and elegant way to add sophistication to any meal or party. They’re also affordable and can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy people.
To make a cheese and cracker platter, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, brie, gouda, and blue cheese. You can also add other cheeses, such as goat cheese, feta cheese, or Parmesan cheese.
Once you have your cheeses, start assembling your platter. Cut the cheeses into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter or board. You can also add crackers or bread to the platter.
To add flavor and texture to your platter, you can also add various accompaniments, such as jams, honey, fruit, nuts, and olives.
Cheese and cracker platters are a great option for events because they can be made in advance and served at room temperature, making them easy to transport and serve. They’re also a great way for your guests to mingle and socialize.
Here are some tips for making a cheese and cracker platter:
- Choose a variety of cheeses with different flavors and textures.
- Cut the cheese into bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange the cheeses on a platter or board in a visually appealing way.
- Add crackers or bread to the platter.
- Add various accompaniments, such as jams, honey, fruit, nuts, and olives, to add flavor and texture.
- Make the platter in advance and serve it at room temperature.
With some planning, you can easily make a cheese and cracker platter to impress your guests.
17. Yogurt parfait or fruit cups
Yogurt parfaits and fruit cups are a healthy and refreshing way to start your day or enjoy a snack. They’re also affordable and can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy people.
To make a yogurt parfait, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need yogurt, granola, and fruit, such as berries or stone fruits. You can add other ingredients, such as honey, nuts, or seeds.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your parfait. Layer the yogurt, granola, and fruit in a cup or glass. You can also add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of nuts or seeds.
To make a fruit cup, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need fresh fruit, such as berries, melons, grapes, and citrus. You can add other fruits, such as apples, bananas, and peaches.
Once you have your ingredients, start assembling your fruit cup. Cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces and arrange them in a cup or glass. You can also add a drizzle of light syrup or yogurt.
Yogurt parfaits and fruit cups are a great option for events because they can be made in advance and served cold, making them easy to transport and serve. They’re also a great way to get your kids to eat fruits and vegetables!
Here are some tips for making a yogurt parfait or fruit cup:
- Use a variety of fruits and yogurt flavors to create a visually appealing and flavorful parfait or fruit cup.
- Layer the ingredients in a visually appealing way.
- Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of nuts or seeds to add flavor and texture.
- Make the parfait or fruit cup in advance and serve it cold.
Read More: 6 Last-Minute Catering Ideas to Impress Your Guests
Conclusion
Many cheap lunch catering ideas can be used to provide delicious and satisfying meals for any occasion, such as wrap platters, salad bowls, pasta salads, grilled chicken or vegetable skewers, quiche or frittatas, soups and stews, nacho or taco bars, pizza or calzones, sliders or mini burgers, hot dogs or sausages, fried rice or stir-fry, grilled cheese and tomato soup, macaroni and cheese, vegetable or fruit trays, cheese and cracker platters, and yogurt parfait or fruit cups.
With the use of Flex Catering Software, these ideas can be easily organized, managed, and executed. The software allows for real-time tracking of orders, inventory management, and streamlined communication with clients and vendors, saving both time and money for the catering business. It can also help create and customize menus, track expenses and financial reports, and schedule and dispatch staff and equipment.
