10 high-protein snacks for under $1.50 each

Protein doesn’t have to cost you a fortune—or come in the form of a dry, overpriced bar. You can keep your energy up and hunger in check with snacks that are actually affordable and pack a decent amount of protein.

These options come in under $1.50 per serving (based on current average U.S. prices) and can be picked up at pretty much any grocery store. They’re practical, easy to prep or grab on the go, and they work whether you’re hitting a workout or chasing kids around.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

Eggs are still one of the cheapest and most effective ways to get in some protein. Boil a whole batch at once and you’ve got a snack that’s ready in seconds when you’re hungry.

One large egg has about 6 grams of protein and costs around 25–30 cents. Add a dash of salt or everything seasoning to keep it from getting boring. Two eggs plus a handful of fruit or veggies will hold you longer than a granola bar ever will.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is underrated for how filling it is. Half a cup gives you around 13–14 grams of protein and usually costs around $0.75 depending on brand and store.

You can eat it plain, with fruit, or even with some cracked pepper and a drizzle of hot sauce. It’s versatile, cold, and ready to eat. Look for full-fat or 2% to make it feel like a real snack, not a diet food.

Canned Tuna

A single-serve pouch or half a can of tuna has 12–20 grams of protein and still runs under $1.50. You can eat it straight from the pack or mix it with a little mustard or light mayo if you’ve got time.

It’s shelf-stable, which makes it good to stash at work or in your bag. If you need it more filling, pair it with whole grain crackers and you’ve still got a budget-friendly snack that works hard.

Greek Yogurt

Single-serve plain Greek yogurt is a go-to for high protein without high cost. Look for 5–6 oz cups with 12–15 grams of protein. Store brands often go on sale for under $1 each.

Add cinnamon or a few berries if you want something sweet without loading up on sugar. Skip the flavored versions if you’re watching carbs—they’re usually pricier and less filling.

Edamame

Frozen shelled edamame is one of the best plant-based protein snacks you can keep in the freezer. A half cup cooked gives you about 9 grams of protein and costs under $1.

You can steam it in the microwave, sprinkle with salt or garlic powder, and eat it warm or cold. It’s easy to portion out into little snack bags ahead of time too.

String Cheese

Each stick usually has 6–7 grams of protein and comes in at around $0.30 to $0.50 depending on the pack size. It’s one of the easiest grab-and-go options out there.

Look for mozzarella or cheddar versions without added fillers. Pair it with apple slices or a handful of nuts if you need something more substantial. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done.

Roasted Chickpeas

You can make your own or buy them pre-roasted. Either way, they’re crunchy, portable, and have around 6 grams of protein per ¼ cup serving.

Canned chickpeas are cheap—about $1 for a whole can—so roasting your own keeps the cost low. Season with paprika, garlic, or chili powder and store in an airtight container for several days.

Peanut Butter on Rice Cakes

One tablespoon of peanut butter has about 7 grams of protein and only costs about $0.20–$0.25. Add it to a plain rice cake (another $0.20 or so), and you’ve got a cheap, crunchy snack that actually satisfies.

Stick to natural or store-brand options to avoid added sugar. If you want variety, sprinkle on cinnamon or a few banana slices. You’ll get protein and healthy fats without overdoing it.

Hummus with Carrot Sticks

Two tablespoons of hummus gives you 2–3 grams of protein and some fiber, while a handful of carrot sticks keeps it fresh and crunchy. You can prep this in little containers for the week.

A whole tub of hummus costs around $2–$3, and carrots are still one of the cheapest veggies you can buy. Together, it comes out to well under $1.50 per serving and feels more like a real snack than a handful of pretzels.

Boiled Lentils with Seasoning

Cooked lentils are packed with protein—around 9 grams per half-cup—and are crazy cheap when bought dry. A whole bag costs a couple of dollars and lasts through dozens of snacks.

Once cooked, season with lemon juice, salt, cumin, or anything you like and portion it out into containers. You can eat it cold or warm. It’s not your typical snack, but it’s filling and easy to batch prep.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.