My boyfriend recently told me that he buys lunch every day at work! What does this amount to? About $10 a day or $200 a month. What!? His main reason for buying lunch is that he’s too busy in the morning to stop and make a lunch. That’s why I decided to find these quick and frugal make-ahead lunches. These are great for making the night before to just grab and go.

Make-Ahead Lunches for Work or School

24¢ Microwavable Pasta Lunch Packets

At 24¢ each I can’t help but love this easy lunch idea. Who wouldn’t prefer pasta over a regular sandwich!? These would also make a great dinner side. Learn how to make this super cheap (and yummy) lunch here.

Mango Coconut Quinoa Salad

This delicious meal can be made up to five days in advance AND it gets better the longer it sits. Even better? Prep time is only five minutes! Find the full recipe here.

Make Ahead Lunch Wrap

This lunch wrap is super cheap to make since it’s made with a few low-cost ingredients. Think cheese, rice, and beans. These can be made, frozen, and reheated in the microwave for a quick work lunch. Yum! Go here for the full recipe.

BLT Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is a great low cost to-go lunch. It can be made ahead of time and won’t get soggy like a classic BLT. Even better? This recipe is gluten-free. Yum! Find the recipe here.

Mason Jar Salads

Mason jar salads are great make ahead meals. You simply plop in the ingredients and then pour into a bowl when you’re ready to eat. Buzzfeed has a list of 18 Mason Jar Salads with tons of unique ideas. Our favorite?  The pomegranate and pear salad! What’s yours?

What is your favorite make-ahead lunch recipe?