Last Updated
When most people think of Panera, they assume it’s a bit expensive. But truth is, there are quite a few items that fall under the $10 mark—even in 2026. You just need to know where to look.
There’s something comforting about a warm bowl of soup and a fresh sandwich—but when you’re watching your wallet, eating out can feel like a luxury. That’s where Panera Bread surprised me. I recently started tracking my lunch expenses and thought Panera was too pricey to be on the list. But after digging a little deeper, I found they actually have a solid menu of filling meals under $10.
Sandwiches Under $10
Chicken Roma Asiago Bagel Stack
8.99$
580 Calories
Spicy Steak Asiago Bagel Stack
8.99$
590 Calories
Rustic Baked Potato Soup
8.99$
660 Calories
Mediterranean Veggie
9.99$
490 Calories
Grilled Cheese
9.99$
810 Calories
Salads Under $10
Greek Salad
11.99$
420 Calories
Caesar Salad
11.99$
420 Calories
Value Duets
Grilled Cheese & Creamy Tomato Soup
8.79$
660 Calories
Turkey & Cheddar Sandwich & Cream of Chicken & Wild Rice Soup
8.79$
610 Calories
Smokehouse BBQ Chicken & Creamy Tomato Soup
8.79$
670 Calories
Tuna Salad Sandwich & Creamy Tomato Soup
8.79$
550 Calories
Caesar Salad & Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
8.79$
330 Calories
Mediterranean Veggie & Creamy Tomato Soup
8.79$
460 Calories
Greek Salad & Creamy Tomato Soup
8.79$
460 Calories
Soups & Mac Under $10
Mac & Cheese
11.79$
480 Calories
Bacon Mac & Cheese
12.89$
960 Calories
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
9.39$
360 Calories
Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
9.39$
180 Calories
Cream of Chicken & Wild Rice Soup
9.39$
280 Calories
Bistro French Onion Soup
9.39$
290 Calories
How to Mix & Match for Value
If you’re trying to make a full lunch out of items under $10, the trick is in combining smaller portions smartly.
Here are a few combos I’ve tried that stayed under budget:
- Half Mediterranean Veggie + Cup of Soup → ~$9.58
- Grilled Cheese + Small Mac → ~$10.28 (some locations offer it as a combo for less)
- Chicken Caesar Salad + Baguette Side → ~$5.99 (yes, bread’s still free!)
- Tuna Sandwich Half + Apple Side → ~$5.19
Most of the time, you also get a free side — chips, baguette, or apple — which adds value without raising the price.
Don’t Ignore Panera’s Value Duets
One of the most overlooked deals at Panera is their Value Duets Menu. These are pre-paired combos — typically a half sandwich and cup of soup — and many are priced between $6.99 to $8.89.
Some popular pairings include:
- Classic Grilled Cheese + Tomato Soup
- Tuna Sandwich + Creamy Tomato Soup
- Greek Salad + Bistro French Onion Soup
The serving size is perfect for lunch, and even with tax, it usually lands just under or around $9.
My Personal Experience
Just last week, I stopped at a Panera on the way to a client meeting. I didn’t want to spend much but still needed a decent lunch. I ordered the Value Duet of a half grilled cheese and tomato soup, and it cost me around $7.49. The sandwich was fresh, cheese nicely melted, and the soup was rich — not watery like some fast-food places. It kept me full till dinner and honestly felt better than spending $15 at a sit-down place.
Money-Saving Tips at Panera
Here are a few ways to stay under $10 and still eat well:
- Go for Value Duets instead of building your own You Pick Two
- Sign up for MyPanera (loyalty program) — get surprise rewards & free drinks
- Order water instead of a beverage to avoid the extra $2–$3
- Stick to half-size portions — still satisfying, and much cheaper
- Use the Panera app sometimes Use the Panera app-only offers or pick-up discounts apply
Quick Recap Table
Meal Combo | Total Price (Est.) |
|---|---|
Half Veggie Sandwich + Cup of Soup | ~$9.58 |
Grilled Cheese + Tomato Soup (Duet) | ~$7.49 |
Tuna Half Sandwich + Apple | ~$5.19 |
Small Mac + Water + Free Side | ~$5.49 |
FAQs About Panera Bread Under $10 Menu
Final Thoughts
Panera Bread doesn’t have to be expensive — you just need to know where to look. With smart choices, you can easily eat fresh, filling meals without going over $10. From warm soups to crisp salads, and hearty sandwiches to creamy mac — everything you need is on the Panera Bread under $10 menu. It’s a solid option whether you’re budgeting, on-the-go, or just not in the mood to overspend.
Next time you’re near a Panera, give one of these combos a try — your wallet (and your stomach) will thank you.
