21 Recipes To Make Lunch The Most Important Meal Of Your Day

Skipping lunch or grabbing whatever’s easiest is a missed opportunity. These 21 recipes prove that a real meal in the middle of the day makes everything better. No more late-afternoon slumps or staring at the clock, counting the minutes until dinner. A solid lunch does the job right, and this lineup makes sure of it.

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

White Bean Soup

A bowl of hearty white bean soup topped with melted cheese and a slice of toasted bread, garnished with fresh parsley.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you need something warm and comforting for lunch, you can’t go wrong with this choice. Perfect for any day, it’s simple yet filled with rich flavors. White Bean Soup offers a hearty meal that keeps you full for hours. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a quick, nutritious lunch option.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

A plate of spaghetti topped with grilled chicken strips and garnished with chopped parsley, bell peppers, and shredded cheese.
Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving restaurant vibes at home? This dish brings the beloved flavors of a dining-out experience right to your kitchen. Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta is all about enjoying a luxurious meal without the wait or the price tag. It’s a great way to brighten your lunch break with something special.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of a kick, this is your go-to lunch. It’s not just spicy; it’s also packed with incredible flavors. Kimchi Stew will awaken your palate and might even become your new favorite comfort food. It’s both warming and exciting, making lunch the highlight of your day.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Breakfast Burritos

Close-up of a burrito cut in half, showing fillings of scrambled eggs, avocado, tomatoes, cheese, and herbs wrapped in a tortilla.
Breakfast Burritos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Who says you can’t have breakfast for lunch? Mixing it up with this dish can turn your midday meal into a feast. Breakfast Burritos are versatile, filling, and so fulfilling. They’re a fantastic choice when you want a bit of morning glory at noon.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Burritos

Shrimp Burrito Bowls

A bowl of seasoned shrimp, avocado, corn, black beans, rice, and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with cilantro.
Shrimp Burrito Bowls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Looking for a lunch that’s both fulfilling and refreshing? Look no further. Shrimp Burrito Bowls combine freshness with a hint of the sea. They are perfect for a midday boost and won’t slow you down as the day progresses. It’s a balanced meal that checks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fancy something from the Italian kitchen? Here’s a dish that feels like a trip to Italy but without leaving your dining table. Italian Pasta with Salami is all about bold flavors and comfort, keeping lunchtime far from boring. It proves you can enjoy gourmet flavors in the simplicity of your home.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

White Chicken Chili

A bowl of creamy White Chicken Chili with chunks of chicken, sliced avocado, green jalapeño peppers, white beans, and fresh cilantro.
White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you’re looking for a lunch option that’s a little different from the norm, this can offer a wonderful change. White Chicken Chili combines mild heat with creamy textures for a cozy meal. It’s a wonderful way to introduce variety into your lunch routines. Perfect for anyone looking to shake things up.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Close-up of a savory pastry topped with a sunny-side-up egg, sliced ham, yellow bell pepper, and garnished with chopped parsley, served on a sesame seed bun.
Egg Prosciutto Bagel. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sometimes, a sandwich is what you need, but why settle for ordinary? Elevating your lunch with this choice can turn any day around. Egg Prosciutto Bagel is all about the luxurious combination of flavors packed in a convenient form. It’s the ideal pick-me-up for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Tom Yum Soup

Close-up of a spicy tom yum soup with shrimp, mushrooms, tomato chunks, lime wedge, and chopped herbs in a rich, red broth.
Tom Yum Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Longing for a taste of something exotic? Bringing in bold, mouth-watering flavors, this dish won’t disappoint. Tom Yum Soup is a thrilling choice for those who love their lunch with a bit of an edge. It’s a great way to travel through taste and break free from the usual lunch options.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re after something sweet and tangy, here’s a dish that hits all the right notes. Orange Chicken offers a wonderful punch of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting. It turns lunch into an event worth looking forward to. A real treat for those days when you need a boost.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs.
Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

On days when simplicity is key, this soup provides comfort like no other. It’s a smooth, creamy option that satisfies your hunger with its wholesome goodness. Leek and Potato Soup is ideal for a light, yet fulfilling lunch, proving that sometimes, simple is best.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Breakfast Bagel Sliders

A sesame seed bagel sits on top of a serving of scrambled eggs with melted cheese on a white plate.
Breakfast Bagel Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

They say variety is the spice of life, and this dish embodies that in every bite. With Breakfast Bagel Sliders, it’s all about enjoying different flavors packed in a small package. They make for a fun and tasty lunch break, especially when you can’t decide on just one filling.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Bagel Sliders

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

In need of some comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen? This dish makes it possible. Ravioli Casserole is all about the cozy feelings of a home-cooked meal, layered with love and flavors. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy a fulfilling lunch on those demanding days.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Corn Chowder

A close-up of a hearty potato and corn chowder with diced vegetables and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with fresh parsley.
Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a lunch that fills you without weighing you down, here’s a great option. Corn Chowder is sweet, creamy, and utterly soothing. It’s the kind of dish you’ll crave on both good and bad days because of its comforting touch. Plus, it’s easy to love by all age groups.
Get the Recipe: Corn Chowder

Cheese Ravioli

A white plate of ravioli topped with black pepper, grated cheese, and sage leaves.
Cheese Ravioli. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Love pasta but looking for something a bit lighter? Cheese Ravioli pairs well with just about any side for a perfectly rounded lunch. It’s a wonderful meal that brings smiles without the fuss. Great for when you want pasta with a cheesy twist.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Elevated Ramen Noodles

A bowl of ramen with soft-boiled egg, vegetables, and sesame seeds.
Elevated Ramen Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Gone are the days of boring noodle lunches. Adding a twist to a classic, Elevated Ramen Noodles transform your quick lunch into a gourmet experience. It’s for those days when you have little time but big cravings. A simple, yet fancy option that surprises and satisfies.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet.
Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re up for a lunch that’s as fulfilling as it is flavorful, here’s a show-stopper. Twice Baked Potatoes are not your ordinary side dish; they’re the main course in this scenario. Packed with flavor and textures, they make lunchtime something to actually look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Close-up of cheesy garlic bread rolls topped with chopped green onions on a white plate, reminiscent of Loaded Buffalo Chicken Rolls.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Imagine biting into something crispy, then meeting a surprise burst of bold flavor. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls are an exciting take on lunch, combining comfort food with a kick. It’s the type of meal that turns heads when you unpack your lunchbox. A true midday treat.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Potato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy soup topped with grilled bacon pieces and chopped parsley.
Potato Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Feeling under the weather or just in need of some liquid comfort? Potato Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s smooth, it’s creamy, and it has a way of instantly lifting your spirits. Perfect for a cozy lunch that feels like home.
Get the Recipe: Potato Soup

Udon Noodles

A close-up of stir-fried noodles with green beans, red bell peppers, and carrots, garnished with sesame seeds.
Udon Noodles. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Yearning for a quick bite into Asian cuisine? Udon Noodles offer a fulfilling slurp with every bite. They’re a sturdy, chewy choice perfect for those craving something different. It’s a simple way to make lunch more interesting and far from ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For cheese lovers, here’s a lunch that feels like a feast. Three Cheese Manicotti is all about indulging in the rich, creamy goodness of cheese packed in pasta. It’s a comforting meal that makes you look forward to lunch all morning. A true crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

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