Tried everything? You likely haven’t tried these 23 lunch ideas!

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If you’re always on the lookout for exciting new lunch options, then you’re in for a treat. I’m thrilled to share a collection of lunch ideas that might just surprise you. From hearty soups to creative stuffed potatoes and flavorful stews, these recipes offer a fresh take on midday meals that you likely haven’t tried yet. Whether you’re tired of the same old sandwich routine or simply craving something different, these lunch ideas are here to shake things up and add a delicious twist to your daily dining experience.

A bowl of seafood gumbo, featuring shrimp, sausage, and vegetables in a spicy tomato broth, served with a spoon.
Fish Stew with Chorizo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot

Two tacos on a plate with a bowl of guacamole.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot offer a convenient and flavorful lunch option that’s perfect for those hectic days when you’re short on time. With tender shredded chicken cooked to perfection in a savory blend of spices, these tacos are sure to satisfy your lunchtime cravings. Simply toss the ingredients in the crockpot and let it do the work for you while you go about your day. Enjoy these delicious tacos with your favorite toppings for a satisfying and hassle-free lunch experience.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot

Minestrone Soup with Sausage

Minestrone Soup with Sausage in white bowl with spoonful.
Minestrone Soup with Sausage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Minestrone Soup with Sausage is a hearty and comforting lunch option that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something warm and filling. Loaded with hearty vegetables, savory sausage, and tender pasta in a flavorful broth, this soup is a complete meal in itself. Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover vegetables or pantry staples. Whip up a batch of this delicious soup for a satisfying and nourishing lunch that will keep you full and satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Broccoli salad with bacon bits on a white oval plate, accompanied by a wooden serving spoon on a linen napkin.
Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Broccoli Salad with Bacon offers a delicious and nutritious lunch option that’s packed with flavor and texture. With crisp broccoli florets, crunchy bacon bits, sweet raisins, and creamy dressing, this salad is a delightful combination of savory and sweet. Its simple preparation and make-ahead convenience make it a perfect choice for busy weekdays or as a side dish for gatherings and potlucks. Enjoy this refreshing and satisfying salad as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite protein for a complete lunchtime feast.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Frito Chili Pie

A plate of Fritos topped with ground beef, cheese, tomatoes, beans, and green onions.
Frito Chili Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Frito Chili Pie is a fun and comforting lunch option that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious. With layers of crunchy Fritos, savory chili, and melted cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Its simple ingredients and quick assembly make it a convenient choice for busy days when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry. Whether you’re serving it up for lunch or as a game day snack, Frito Chili Pie is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Frito Chili Pie

Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

A pot of Italian vegetable stew with a spoon, garnished with chopped green herbs, on a white tablecloth with a small bowl of parsley on the side.
Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew is a hearty and flavorful lunch option that’s packed with wholesome ingredients and rustic Italian flavors. With a colorful medley of vegetables simmered in a savory tomato broth, this stew is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year. Its simple preparation and versatile ingredients make it easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whip up a batch of this delicious Italian stew for a cozy and nourishing lunch that will warm you from the inside out.
Get the Recipe: Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Top view of a bowl of creamy tomato soup garnished with basil, served with a spoon and sunglasses on the side.
Crock Pot Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crock Pot Tomato Soup is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy and satisfying lunch option. With rich and velvety tomato flavor enhanced by aromatic herbs and spices, this soup is a timeless favorite that’s sure to warm you up on even the chilliest of days. Its slow cooker preparation allows you to set it and forget it, making it a convenient choice for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Serve this creamy tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or crusty bread for a complete and comforting meal that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

A bowl of pasta with shrimp and tomatoes.
Shrimp and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta presents a delightful lunch idea that combines the savory goodness of shrimp with the tangy richness of tomatoes. This dish offers a refreshing twist to traditional pasta, making it a fantastic option for those looking to shake up their lunch routine. The ease of preparation and minimal ingredients make it a convenient choice for busy days when you crave a satisfying meal without the fuss. With tender shrimp nestled in a flavorful tomato sauce, this pasta is sure to become a new favorite for lunchtime gatherings or solo dining occasions.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

Crab Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with vegetables and crab meat.
Crab Fried Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crab Fried Rice offers a flavorful and filling lunch option that’s a departure from the ordinary, making it a must-try for those seeking new culinary experiences. Packed with succulent crab meat, fragrant rice, and a medley of vegetables, this dish is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Its simplicity and quick cooking time make it an ideal choice for busy days when you want a delicious meal without the hassle. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with your favorite side, this Crab Fried Rice is guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

Bang Bang Shrimp

Fried shrimp on a plate next to a bowl of sauce.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bang Bang Shrimp offers a delectable lunch option that’s bursting with bold flavors and irresistible crunch, making it a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. With crispy fried shrimp coated in a creamy and spicy sauce, this dish delivers a perfect balance of heat and sweetness that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Its straightforward preparation and quick cooking time make it an ideal choice for those seeking a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or main course, Bang Bang Shrimp is guaranteed to leave you craving more.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Shrimp and Corn Bisque

A close-up image of a spoonful of creamy shrimp bisque garnished with herbs, hovering above the rest of the soup in a bowl.
Shrimp and Corn Bisque. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp and Corn Bisque offers a comforting and flavorful lunch option that’s perfect for those chilly days when you crave something warm and soothing. With tender shrimp, sweet corn, and creamy broth, this bisque is a delicious blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to warm you from the inside out. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a convenient choice for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Whether served as a starter or a main course, this Shrimp and Corn Bisque is guaranteed to hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Seafood Pasta Salad

Close-up of a spoon holding seafood pasta salad garnished with parsley, with more salad in the background.
Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Seafood Pasta Salad provides a refreshing and satisfying lunch option that’s perfect for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. With a medley of seafood, pasta, and crisp vegetables tossed in a tangy dressing, this salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry, making it a great way to use up leftovers or incorporate seasonal produce. Whether served as a side dish or a standalone meal, this Seafood Pasta Salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

Santa Fe Salad

A colorful chicken salad with avocado, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and lime slices, presented in a white bowl.
Santa Fe Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Santa Fe Salad offers a vibrant and satisfying lunch option that’s bursting with Southwestern flavors, making it a refreshing departure from ordinary salads. With crisp lettuce, black beans, corn, and creamy avocado, this salad provides a delicious and nutritious meal that will leave you feeling energized. Its simple assembly and customizable ingredients make it a convenient choice for busy days when you crave a hearty yet healthy lunch option. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side dish, Santa Fe Salad is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Santa Fe Salad

Wet Burrito

Chicken wet burrito with salsa and sour cream on a white plate.
Wet Burrito. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Wet Burrito is a flavorful and comforting lunch option that’s perfect for those seeking a hearty and satisfying meal. With savory fillings wrapped in a warm tortilla and smothered in sauce and melted cheese, this dish offers a taste of Mexican-inspired goodness that will warm you from the inside out. Its simple preparation and customizable ingredients make it an ideal choice for lunchtime gatherings or solo dining occasions. Whether served as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite side, Wet Burrito is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Wet Burrito

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Close-up of a hand holding a seasoned chicken wing garnished with fresh herbs, with more pieces on a plate in the background.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are a tasty and satisfying lunch option that’s perfect for those who love the classic combination of zesty lemon and aromatic pepper. With crispy chicken wings seasoned to perfection and bursting with flavor, this dish offers a delightful twist on traditional chicken wings. Its straightforward preparation and short cooking time make it an excellent choice for busy days when you need a quick and delicious meal. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these lemon pepper chicken wings are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Broccoli Cheese Soup

A bowl of creamy broccoli cheese soup beside fresh broccoli and shredded cheese, with a slow cooker in the background.
Broccoli Cheese Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Broccoli Cheese Soup presents a comforting and creamy lunch option that’s perfect for those chilly days when you crave something warm and satisfying. With tender broccoli florets and melted cheese in a rich and flavorful broth, this soup offers a taste of home-cooked goodness in every spoonful. Its simple ingredients and quick cooking time make it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you want a comforting meal without the fuss. Whether served as a starter or a main course, Broccoli Cheese Soup is sure to warm you up and leave you feeling satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheese Soup

Air Fryer Tuna Melt

A grilled cheese tuna sandwich is cut in half on a plate.
Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Tuna Melt offers a delicious and convenient lunch option that’s perfect for seafood lovers seeking a quick and easy meal. With flaky tuna, melted cheese, and crispy bread, this dish provides a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Its short cooking time in the air fryer makes it an excellent choice for busy days when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry. Whether enjoyed as a standalone lunch or paired with a side salad or soup, Air Fryer Tuna Melt is sure to please your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

A sandwich with avocado, chicken and cheese on a plate.
Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt offers a flavorful and satisfying lunch option that’s reminiscent of your favorite restaurant dish. With tender chicken, creamy avocado, and melted cheese on toasted bread, this melt provides a delicious combination of flavors and textures. Its simple preparation and customizable ingredients make it a convenient choice for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you want a tasty meal without the hassle. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a comforting snack, Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is sure to hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

Broccoli Slaw Salad

A plate of colorful broccoli slaw with shredded purple cabbage and carrots topped with dried cranberries and pine nuts, next to a red-checked napkin.
Broccoli Slaw Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Broccoli Slaw Salad presents a crunchy and refreshing lunch option that’s perfect for those seeking a light and nutritious meal. With crisp broccoli slaw, sweet raisins, crunchy almonds, and tangy dressing, this salad offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Its simple assembly and make-ahead convenience make it an ideal choice for busy days when you want a healthy meal without the fuss. Whether enjoyed as a standalone lunch or a side dish, Broccoli Slaw Salad is sure to satisfy your cravings for something fresh and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw Salad

Mexican Steak Pizza

Close-up of a cheesy Mexican steak pizza on a wooden spatula.
Mexican Steak Pizza. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Mexican Steak Pizza provides a flavorful and satisfying lunch option that’s perfect for pizza lovers craving a unique twist on the classic dish. With tender steak, zesty salsa, melted cheese, and fresh toppings on a crispy crust, this pizza offers a delicious fusion of Mexican-inspired flavors. Its simple preparation and customizable ingredients make it a convenient choice for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you want a tasty meal without the hassle. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a fun dinner option, Mexican Steak Pizza is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Steak Pizza

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Shrimp macaroni salad in a pink bowl with lemon wedges.
Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp Macaroni Salad offers a refreshing and protein-packed lunch option that’s perfect for seafood enthusiasts seeking a satisfying meal. With tender shrimp, al dente macaroni, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing, this salad provides a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry, making it a great way to use up leftovers or incorporate seasonal produce. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or a side dish, Shrimp Macaroni Salad is sure to impress with its delicious taste.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Fish Stew with Chorizo

A bowl of soup with sausage and fish.
Fish Stew with Chorizo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Fish Stew with Chorizo offers a flavorful and hearty lunch option that’s a delightful departure from ordinary soups. With tender fish, spicy chorizo, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a savory broth, this stew provides a satisfying and nutritious meal. Its straightforward preparation and short cooking time make it an excellent choice for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you crave a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a standalone lunch or paired with crusty bread, Fish Stew with Chorizo is sure to warm you up and leave you feeling satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Fish Stew with Chorizo

Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potato stuffed with black beans and corn.
Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes offer a creative and wholesome lunch option that’s perfect for those seeking a plant-based meal. With hearty sweet potatoes stuffed with flavorful taco-inspired fillings like beans, corn, and avocado, this dish provides a satisfying and nutritious lunch. Its simple assembly and customizable ingredients make it an ideal choice for busy days when you want a quick and delicious meal. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are sure to please vegans and non-vegans alike with their delicious taste and vibrant presentation.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Easy Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy potato soup garnished with rosemary and thyme, served on a wooden table.
Easy Potato Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Easy Potato Soup presents a comforting and fuss-free lunch option that’s perfect for those seeking a warm and satisfying meal. With tender potatoes, aromatic herbs, and creamy broth, this soup offers a taste of homemade goodness in every spoonful. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it an excellent choice for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you want a comforting meal without the hassle. Whether served as a starter or a main course, Easy Potato Soup is sure to warm you up and leave you feeling nourished and content.
Get the Recipe: Easy Potato Soup

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