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Save Time with These 13 Mouthwatering Make-Ahead Lunch Recipes

Balancing workload and personal health can be complicated—like finding a charging cable in a house with teenagers. These prepped meals swoop in like little lunch superheroes, rescuing your midday meal break from the clutches of fast food despair. The spread of options keeps variety in its rightful place, so boredom never hits your palate. Plus, having lunch ready means more time to debate whether blue or black pens are superior, a critical office discussion. Save energy for what matters—deciding on the series finale of the latest Netflix obsession.

A close-up of a sliced Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese on a plate.
Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Horiatiki Salad

A black bowl contains a Horiatiki salad with blocks of feta cheese, garnished with herbs.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving something fresh and full of variety for lunch? Horiatiki Salad offers a balanced mix of textures, combining crunchy veggies with some tangy vinaigrette flavors. It’s the perfect meal for those who want to keep things light but enjoyable. With minimal prep and no need to reheat, it fits seamlessly into any hectic workday. Best of all, it stays crisp and fresh, ready to go whenever you are.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

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

Finding a new purpose for leftovers can be challenging, but Leftover Steak Quesadilla makes it easy. Shredded steak paired with melted cheese and warm tortillas creates a quick, delicious lunch option. This quesadilla brings a bit of warmth and comfort to your midday break. Plus, it’s a very efficient way to minimize kitchen waste. Reheat in minutes and enjoy a meal that feels anything but secondhand.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak on a black slate plate.
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When lunchtime needs a hearty lift, the Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich steps up to the plate. Packed with seasoned ground beef, bell peppers, and onions, this sandwich doesn’t mess around. Easy to assemble the night before, it’s ready to heat and eat by noon. Enjoy it with a side of chips for the whole deli experience. Perfect for those hectic workdays when you need something robust.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

A pulled pork grilled cheese sandwich on a slate plate.
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Mixing the delicious goodness of pork with the comforting feel of grilled cheese, Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese makes for a lovely midday feast. It’s the type of lunch that feels indulgent without needing a long prep time. Pulled pork melds beautifully with melted cheese, bringing a lovely blend of smoky and creamy. A treat for your palate, requiring only a quick reheat, it’s great for those days when you really need something to look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

Turkey & Apple Panini

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

On days when you crave a balance of sweet and spicy, Turkey & Apple Panini offers a welcome twist. Turkey slices paired with the crispness of apples provide a refreshing change from the usual sandwich routine. It can be prepped ahead and toasted quickly for a comforting lunch. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout. Whether paired with a salad or enjoyed alone, this panini is bound to please.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Two pieces of Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos served on a black slate plate.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Sometimes, you just want that fast-food favorite without the trip, and Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos delivers exactly that. These tacos bring all the familiar spice and flavors right to your kitchen. Prepared in advance, they are perfect for a quick grab-and-go lunch. Simply reheat and enjoy, saving you time and money. They are perfect for shaking up your usual lunch routine with something exciting.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

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

For those who love a classic deli experience, the Pastrami Reuben Sandwich is the way to go. Loaded with pastrami and tangy sauerkraut, it brings a lovely mix of flavors. It can be prepped the night before, making it an easy option for busy afternoons. Just heat it and enjoy every bite. A sandwich that delivers on flavor while keeping your weekday smooth.
Get the Recipe: Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

Texas BLT

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

When a regular BLT just won’t cut it, the Texas BLT stands out with a robust reimagining. It takes the basics—bacon, lettuce, and tomato—and brings them up a notch with some added twists. Prepping it saves you time, letting you focus on enjoying your meal. Plus, it’s great when you need a quick, lovely boost. This sandwich pulls its weight in the lunch department.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

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

Bringing global flavors to your lunchbox, Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches are a treat for anyone looking for something exotic yet convenient. Each bite is loaded with flavor and prepped with seasoned meatballs and tangy sauces. Wrapped in a pita, they’re easy to pack and take to work. Requiring minimal reheat time, they’re perfect for a busy day. These sandwiches keep things exciting and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Reuben Sliders

Reuben sliders on a slate board.
Reuben Sliders. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Reuben Sliders might just hit the spot if you’re in the mood for something delicious and snackable. Small in size but big in taste, these sliders pack all the classic Reuben flavors. They are ideal for a quick lunch or even a light snack and are easy to prepare ahead of time. Just warm them up and enjoy. Perfect for those moments when you want a gourmet taste without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Sliders

Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

A roast beef sandwich with melted cheese on a hoagie roll, accompanied by crinkle-cut fries and a bowl of brown dipping sauce on the side.
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Missing the comfort of a hearty beef sandwich? Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich brings that deli-style goodness home. Made with tender beef and a side of dipping jus, it’s a lunch you’ll look forward to all morning. Prep it the night before and simply reheat when hunger hits. A perfect blend of simplicity and satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

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.

This Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich brings the firehouse experience to your table. It’s packed with hearty meat and lovely flavors. It’s easy to assemble the night before, and a quick microwave session brings it to dinner standards. This sandwich saves you the hassle of complex weekday prep. Enjoy a delicious, filling lunch without a fuss. Perfect for ensuring you have a hearty meal ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese

A close-up of a sliced Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese on a plate.
Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Seeking a fun twist on a classic? Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese blends deliciousness with a touch of sweetness, making for an enjoyable yet comforting meal. Easy to prepare ahead of time, this sandwich can be quickly toasted when you’re ready to eat. It brings a unique flavor combination that still feels like home. Keeping things light yet fulfilling, it’s perfect for an anytime lunch.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese

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