5 Cheap Microwave Meals You Can Make in Minutes

5 Cheap Microwave Meals You Can Make in Minutes

Flatlay of cheap microwave meal ingredients including rice, eggs, potatoes, pasta, cheese, frozen vegetables, ramen, and mug meals on a wooden table.


Quick Answer: You can make cheap, filling microwave meals using simple ingredients like rice, eggs, potatoes, and frozen vegetables. Try microwave fried rice, baked potatoes, scrambled eggs, mac and cheese, and mug casseroles — all ready in under 10 minutes.

Microwave meals don’t have to be boring or expensive. These quick recipes use everyday ingredients and cost less than $2 per serving — perfect for students, renters, or anyone cooking on a budget.

Table of Contents

1. Microwave Fried Rice

Use leftover rice, frozen veggies, and soy sauce for a fast, filling meal.

  • Mix 1 cup cooked rice, ½ cup frozen mixed vegetables, and 1 tbsp soy sauce.
  • Microwave for 2–3 minutes until hot.
  • Add a scrambled egg or leftover chicken for protein.

Cost per serving: about $1.20

2. Loaded Baked Potato

Skip the oven — the microwave makes perfect baked potatoes in minutes.

  • Wash and pierce a medium potato with a fork.
  • Microwave 5–6 minutes until soft.
  • Top with butter, cheese, or canned chili for a full meal.

Cost per serving: about $1.50

3. Microwave Scrambled Eggs

Quick protein for breakfast or dinner.

  • Whisk 2 eggs with a splash of milk and salt in a microwave‑safe bowl.
  • Microwave 45 seconds, stir, then heat another 30–45 seconds until set.
  • Add shredded cheese or spinach for flavor.

Cost per serving: about $1.00

4. Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

Comfort food made simple — no stove required.

  • Combine ½ cup macaroni, ½ cup water, and a pinch of salt in a mug.
  • Microwave 3–4 minutes, stirring halfway.
  • Add ¼ cup milk and ¼ cup shredded cheese, then heat 30 seconds more.

Cost per serving: about $1.80

5. Microwave Mug Casserole

A one‑dish meal using pantry staples.

  • Mix ¼ cup cooked rice, ¼ cup canned beans, 2 tbsp salsa, and shredded cheese.
  • Microwave 1–2 minutes until hot and bubbly.
  • Top with sour cream or avocado if you have it.

Cost per serving: about $1.50

Budget Tips

  • Buy frozen vegetables — they’re cheaper and last longer.
  • Use store‑brand cheese and sauces.
  • Cook rice or pasta in bulk for multiple meals.
  • Reuse leftovers creatively — mix them into mug meals or rice bowls.

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Why You’ll Love These Meals

They’re cheap, fast, and renter‑friendly — no stove, no mess, no stress. Perfect for students, small apartments, or anyone cooking on a tight budget.

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