17 lunch recipes that are so good, you’ll skip takeout

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Lunch just got a serious upgrade with recipes that make your midday meal something to look forward to. They’re so good, you’ll skip takeout and never look back. Whether you’re at work or home, these dishes bring convenience and flavor together effortlessly. Say goodbye to the lunch blues and hello to something better.

Texas BLT on a black slate plate.
Texas BLT. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

Golden-brown pulled pork grilled cheese on a plate.
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Lunch doesn’t have to mean settling for something bland or overpriced from a restaurant. With Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese, you get a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and way more rewarding than anything in a to-go box. It’s the kind of dish that makes you glad you stayed home and saved time. One bite, and you’ll realize takeout just can’t compete.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup

Two bowls of Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup were placed on a marble surface next to two spoons.
Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup gives a new twist to a classic and is hard to resist. The creamy texture and rich flavors come together perfectly, making it a great choice for anyone seeking a warm, comforting meal. Paired with some bread, it’s a sure hit for lunch or dinner. No wonder it feels like a little escape to France with each spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup

Turkey & Apple Panini

Turkey & Apple Panini stacked on a plate.
Turkey & Apple Panini. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This sandwich brings together some surprising flavors that keep you wanting more. The combination of savory turkey and the sweet tang of apples creates a perfect mix. Turkey & Apple Panini is an ideal choice for a lunch that won’t weigh you down but keeps you going. You can enjoy this panini warm or cold without missing out on the goodness.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Seafood Chowder

Seafood chowder with a sprig of dill, a delicious stew recipe.
Seafood Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

There’s something about a big bowl of chowder that just hits the spot. Loaded with different types of seafood, it’s a hearty dish that works any time you’re craving something filling. Each bite offers a bit of ocean goodness that nearly transports you to the coast. Seafood Chowder isn’t just enjoyable; it’s like a meal and a moment all wrapped in one.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Chowder

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwich served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

These sandwiches bring a new twist to handheld meals. The meatballs are seasoned just right, making each bite a little adventure. Stuffed in pita bread, they’re easy to eat on the go. Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches are perfect when you want a fresh and filling option that’s both fun and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A bowl of this Pasta e Fagioli Soup is like coming home after a long day, offering a comforting mix. It’s an excellent choice when you need more than just a quick bite but something with heart and substance. The combination of pasta and beans keeps it interesting and filling. This soup makes it easy to see why some traditions just can’t be beaten.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Double halves of Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak on a slate plate.
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Get ready for a sandwich that means business. It’s packed with ground beef and oozing cheese for an effortless winner. Ideal for those moments when you crave something substantial without messing around, it gets the job done. Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak is a no-frills meal that’s always on point.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Sometimes, simple is the best way to go. This salad offers a mix that’s both refreshing and filling, making it a crowd-pleaser. Light, crisp, and perfect for any meal, it’s a reliable choice every time. Cucumber Salad with Feta delivers a burst of freshness in every bite, keeping things effortlessly enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Chicken Zoodle Soup

A person holding a bowl of chicken and zucchini soup.
Chicken Zoodle Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you wish for something light yet hearty, this soup hits the mark. Instead of the usual noodles, you get refreshing zoodles that keep it interesting. Each spoonful provides comfort without overloading you. Chicken Zoodle Soup makes it easy to enjoy a classic favorite in a lighter form.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Pizza Pasta Salad

A fork with pizza pasta salad in a bowl.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This unique mix brings together the best of two worlds: pizza and salad. Every bite has a little something that pizza lovers will recognize and enjoy. Great for a quick and fun meal, it never gets old. Pizza Pasta Salad proves that creativity in the kitchen always has its rewards.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding wedges of a quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This meal turns your leftover steak into something you’ll want to cook extra steak just to make. Filled with essential nutrients, it’s a smart way to enjoy what’s left in the fridge. It’s perfect for those nights when you need quick, filling food without much fuss. With every bite of this Leftover Steak Quesadilla, you get a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Two bowls of creamy chicken & wild rice soup on a wooden table.
Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup brings you comfort with each spoonful. A heartwarming choice for a cozy meal, it’s flavorful and incredibly filling. It’s a meal you can whip up to warm yourself on a chilly day. The creamy consistency and chunks keep this soup from being just another bowl of broth.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

A Pastrami Reuben sandwich on a plate with chips and pickles.
Pastrami Reuben Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This sandwich is an all-time favorite with its perfect blend of meat and tangy goodness. A classic deli-style sandwich that brings comfort to your lunch. Pastrami Reuben Sandwich will have you coming back for more. It’s balanced in every bite, keeps you full, and is simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Crisp, fresh, and extraordinarily fulfilling, Chinese Chicken Salad keeps you coming back for more. This salad brings together the best of crunchy and savory ingredients. It’s a smart choice if you need a meal that’s both light and substantial. Each forkful offers textures that keep your interest piqued.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

An open-face NY Steamer sub copycat on a plate with Italian dressing.
Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Packed with stacked ingredients, Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich gives you a full meal experience in every bite. It’s ideal if you’re on the go but still crave a fulfilling meal. This sandwich is known for its mouth-watering blend that leaves you feeling full and happy. It’s something you’ll think about long after the meal is over.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

A bowl of salmon pasta salad with a creamy dressing, garnished with a sprig of dill.
Easy Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Wholesome and incredibly fulfilling, this Easy Salmon Pasta Salad offers you a smart choice for any meal. It’s light while delivering a hearty dose of protein. The blend of ingredients ensures you get a delicious mix in every forkful. Perfect for when you need something that’s not too heavy but still substantial.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Texas BLT

Texas BLT on a black slate plate.
Texas BLT. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Texas BLT takes the classic sandwich to a whole new level with its bold and hearty ingredients. Each bite is a balance of crispy, chewy, and incredibly satisfying components. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a meal that’ll fill you right up. It’s a great go-to for a quick but fulfilling option.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

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