17 Best Sandwich Recipes Perfect for Any Lunch Break

Nothing beats a perfectly crafted sandwich when you need a satisfying lunch that hits all the right spots. These homemade creations turn simple ingredients into something truly special.

From classic combinations to creative twists, each recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss for your busy day.

01. Prosciutto Mozzarella Tomato Sandwich

This elevated Italian-style sandwich combines salty prosciutto with creamy fresh mozzarella. The contrast between crispy toasted bread and tender fillings creates the perfect bite every time.

Ingredients: 8 slices sourdough bread, 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced), 6 oz prosciutto di Parma, 2 large ripe tomatoes (sliced), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze, salt and black pepper to taste.

How To Make Prosciutto Mozzarella Tomato Sandwich

1. Toast the sourdough bread slices until golden brown and crispy on both sides. I like to brush them lightly with olive oil before toasting for extra flavor and crunch.

2. Season the tomato slices with salt and pepper, then let them sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This prevents your sandwich from getting soggy.

3. Layer the prosciutto evenly on four bread slices, followed by mozzarella slices and seasoned tomatoes. Add fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze.

4. Top with remaining bread slices and gently press down. Cut diagonally and serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crispy.

02. Loaded Avocado Cucumber Sandwich

Fresh cucumbers and creamy avocado create this refreshing vegetarian sandwich. The combination of textures and flavors makes it surprisingly filling and satisfying.

Ingredients: 8 slices whole grain bread, 2 large ripe avocados, 1 large English cucumber (thinly sliced), 1/2 cup ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded), 1 red bell pepper (sliced), 2 tablespoons lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste.

How To Make Loaded Avocado Cucumber Sandwich

1. Mash the avocados with lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth but still slightly chunky. The lemon juice prevents browning and adds brightness to the flavor.

2. Mix the ricotta and cheddar cheeses together in a small bowl until well combined. This creates a creamy, tangy spread that holds everything together perfectly.

3. Toast the bread lightly until just golden. Spread the cheese mixture on four slices, then layer with mashed avocado, cucumber slices, and red pepper strips.

4. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed, then top with remaining bread slices. Press gently and cut in half to serve.

03. Quick Tuna Melt Sandwich

This healthier tuna melt uses Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter twist. The golden, crispy exterior gives way to melted cheese and flavorful tuna salad inside.

Ingredients: 8 slices whole wheat bread, 2 cans tuna in water (drained), 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 celery stalks (diced), 1/4 cup roasted red peppers (chopped), 2 green onions (sliced), 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded), 2 tablespoons mayonnaise for brushing.

How To Make Quick Tuna Melt Sandwich

1. Combine tuna, Greek yogurt, celery, roasted red peppers, and green onions in a bowl. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Spread the tuna mixture evenly on four bread slices, then top with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover with remaining bread slices.

3. Brush the outside of each sandwich with mayonnaise instead of butter. This creates an incredibly golden and crispy crust when cooked.

4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.

5. Let cool for 2 minutes before cutting to prevent the filling from spilling out. Serve warm for the best melted cheese experience.

04. White Bean Avocado Toast

Creamy mashed avocado meets protein-rich white beans in this fiber-packed toast. It’s simple enough for breakfast but satisfying enough for lunch too.

Ingredients: 4 slices whole grain bread, 1 large ripe avocado, 1 can cannellini beans (drained and rinsed), 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 garlic clove (minced), red pepper flakes, salt and black pepper to taste.

How To Make White Bean Avocado Toast

1. Toast the bread slices until golden and crispy. While still warm, rub lightly with the cut side of a garlic clove for subtle flavor.

2. Mash the avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. In a separate bowl, lightly mash the white beans, leaving some chunks for texture.

3. Combine the mashed avocado and beans, then drizzle with olive oil. Mix gently to maintain some texture rather than making it completely smooth.

4. Spread the mixture generously on toasted bread and sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Serve immediately while the toast is still crispy.

05. Protein-Packed Avocado Egg Toast

This upgraded avocado toast gets a protein boost from a perfectly cooked egg. The runny yolk creates a rich sauce that takes this simple dish to new heights.

Ingredients: 4 slices whole grain bread, 2 large ripe avocados, 4 large eggs, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning, salt and black pepper to taste.

How To Make Protein-Packed Avocado Egg Toast

1. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Crack eggs into the pan and cook until whites are set but yolks remain runny, about 3-4 minutes.

2. While eggs cook, toast bread until golden brown and crispy. Mash avocados with lemon juice, salt, and pepper until creamy but still slightly chunky.

3. Spread mashed avocado evenly on each toast slice, creating a slight well in the center for the egg to nestle into.

4. Carefully place one fried egg on each avocado toast and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning. The runny yolk will mix with the avocado when you eat it.

06. Crispy Baked Falafel Sandwiches

These Middle Eastern-inspired sandwiches feature crispy baked falafel with fresh vegetables. The homemade tahini sauce brings all the Mediterranean flavors together beautifully.

Ingredients: 4 pita breads, 1 can chickpeas (drained), 1/4 cup fresh parsley, 2 garlic cloves, 1 small onion (chopped), 2 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 cucumber (sliced), 2 tomatoes (sliced), olive oil.

How To Make Crispy Baked Falafel Sandwiches

1. Pulse chickpeas, parsley, garlic, onion, flour, and cumin in a food processor until coarsely ground but not pureed. The mixture should hold together when squeezed.

2. Form the mixture into 12 small balls and place on an oiled baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.

3. Make tahini sauce by whisking tahini, lemon juice, and 2-3 tablespoons water until smooth. Season with salt and add more water if needed for drizzling consistency.

4. Warm pita breads and fill each with 3 falafel balls, cucumber slices, tomato slices, and a generous drizzle of tahini sauce.

5. Wrap tightly in foil if taking to go, which helps hold everything together and keeps the pita from getting soggy.

07. Asian Chicken Cucumber Lettuce Wraps

Fresh lettuce cups hold seasoned chicken and crunchy vegetables in these light wraps. The creamy peanut sauce adds rich flavor while keeping things healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken, 1 head butter lettuce, 1 cucumber (julienned), 1 cup jicama (julienned), 3 tablespoons peanut butter, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 garlic clove (minced), 1 teaspoon ginger (grated).

How To Make Asian Chicken Cucumber Lettuce Wraps

1. Cook ground chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully cooked and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes.

2. Season the cooked chicken with salt, pepper, and half the soy sauce. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the other components.

3. Whisk together peanut butter, remaining soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach a smooth, drizzling consistency.

4. Separate lettuce leaves carefully to create cups. Fill each cup with chicken, cucumber, and jicama, then drizzle with peanut sauce before serving immediately.

08. Burrata Avocado Toast Deluxe

Creamy burrata cheese transforms ordinary avocado toast into something extraordinary. The combination of buttery avocado and rich, creamy cheese is absolutely divine.

Ingredients: 4 slices artisan bread, 2 ripe avocados, 8 oz burrata cheese, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze, 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), fresh basil leaves, flaky sea salt, cracked black pepper.

How To Make Burrata Avocado Toast Deluxe

1. Toast bread slices until golden brown and crispy on both sides. The bread should be sturdy enough to support the generous toppings without getting soggy.

2. Mash avocados with a pinch of salt and pepper, leaving some chunky texture for visual appeal and interesting mouthfeel.

3. Spread mashed avocado evenly on each toast slice, then tear burrata into large pieces and distribute over the avocado layer.

4. Top with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Finish with flaky sea salt and cracked pepper.

09. Classic Tuna Salad with Sweet Relish

This upgraded tuna salad sandwich features sweet pickle relish and crunchy celery. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite.

Ingredients: 8 slices whole wheat bread, 3 cans tuna in water (drained), 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish, 2 celery stalks (finely diced), 1 small red onion (minced), 2 hard-boiled eggs (chopped), green leaf lettuce, salt and pepper to taste.

How To Make Classic Tuna Salad with Sweet Relish

1. Combine drained tuna, mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, diced celery, and minced red onion in a large bowl. Mix gently to avoid breaking up the tuna too much.

2. Fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs and season with salt and pepper to taste. The eggs add extra protein and richness to the salad.

3. Chill the tuna salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This also makes it easier to spread on the bread.

4. Toast bread lightly if desired, then spread tuna salad on four slices. Add crisp lettuce leaves and top with remaining bread slices.

5. Cut sandwiches diagonally and serve immediately, or wrap tightly for a packed lunch that stays fresh for hours.

10. Chopped Italian Deli Sandwich

All the classic Italian sandwich ingredients get chopped together for even flavor distribution. This technique ensures every bite has the perfect balance of meats, cheese, and vegetables.

Ingredients: 4 Italian sub rolls, 4 oz salami (sliced), 4 oz ham (sliced), 4 oz provolone cheese (sliced), 1/4 cup red onion (sliced), 2 tomatoes (chopped), 1/4 cup pepperoncini, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.

How To Make Chopped Italian Deli Sandwich

1. Slice all the meats and cheese into strips, then roughly chop everything together on a large cutting board until pieces are bite-sized but not minced.

2. Add chopped tomatoes, sliced red onion, and pepperoncini to the meat and cheese mixture. Continue chopping until everything is evenly distributed.

3. Drizzle the chopped mixture with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together and let it sit for 10 minutes to marinate.

4. Split sub rolls lengthwise and hollow out some of the bread to make room for the generous filling. Fill each roll with the chopped mixture.

5. Press sandwiches gently to compact the filling, then wrap in foil and let sit for 15 minutes before serving. This helps all the flavors come together perfectly.

11. Vegetarian Italian Hoagie

This meatless version of the classic Italian hoagie packs plenty of flavor with marinated vegetables. Artichoke hearts and pepperoncini provide the savory punch you’re craving.

Ingredients: 4 hoagie rolls, 1 jar marinated artichoke hearts (drained and chopped), 1 large red onion (thinly sliced), 1/2 cup pepperoncini (sliced), 8 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced), 2 large tomatoes (sliced), 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon oregano, mixed greens.

How To Make Vegetarian Italian Hoagie

1. Combine chopped artichoke hearts, sliced red onion, and pepperoncini in a bowl. This mixture provides the tangy, savory base that replaces traditional Italian meats.

2. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano to create a simple Italian dressing. Pour over the vegetable mixture and let marinate for 15 minutes.

3. Split hoagie rolls and lightly toast them until just crispy on the outside but still soft inside. This prevents the bread from getting soggy.

4. Layer each roll with mixed greens, marinated vegetable mixture, fresh mozzarella slices, and tomato slices. The order helps keep everything in place.

5. Drizzle with any remaining marinade and serve immediately, or keep components separate until ready to eat if packing for later.

12. Chicken Pesto Panini

Grilled chicken, melted mozzarella, and basil pesto come together in this Italian-inspired panini. The peppery arugula adds a fresh contrast to the rich, savory flavors.

Ingredients: 8 thin slices ciabatta bread, 2 grilled chicken breasts (sliced), 1/4 cup basil pesto, 6 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced), 2 cups fresh arugula, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper to taste.

How To Make Chicken Pesto Panini

1. Spread basil pesto evenly on four slices of ciabatta bread. The thin bread works perfectly for panini because it gets crispy quickly without becoming too thick.

2. Layer sliced grilled chicken over the pesto, followed by fresh mozzarella slices and a handful of arugula on each sandwich.

3. Top with remaining bread slices and brush the outside of each sandwich lightly with olive oil. This helps create that perfect golden, crispy exterior.

4. Heat a panini press or large skillet over medium heat. Cook sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese is melted.

5. Let the panini rest for 2 minutes before cutting to prevent the melted cheese from running out. Cut diagonally and serve while still warm.

13. Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad Sandwich

Ripe avocado replaces some of the mayo in this lighter tuna salad. The result is incredibly creamy with a fresh, buttery flavor that elevates the classic combination.

Ingredients: 8 slices whole grain bread, 3 cans tuna in water (drained), 1 large ripe avocado, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 celery stalks (diced), 1/4 cup red onion (minced), 2 tablespoons capers, lettuce leaves, salt and pepper to taste.

How To Make Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad Sandwich

1. Mash the avocado with lemon juice until smooth and creamy. The lemon juice prevents browning and adds brightness to balance the rich avocado.

2. Combine drained tuna with mashed avocado, mayonnaise, diced celery, minced red onion, and capers. Mix gently to maintain some texture in the tuna.

3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then chill for 20 minutes to let the flavors develop and the mixture firm up slightly.

4. Toast bread lightly and spread the avocado tuna salad generously on four slices. Add crisp lettuce and top with remaining bread.

5. Cut sandwiches in half and serve immediately for the best texture, or wrap tightly if making ahead for lunch later.

14. Fresh Cucumber Tomato Sandwich

This simple summer sandwich celebrates fresh garden vegetables at their peak. The herb-infused cream cheese spread ties together the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes perfectly.

Ingredients: 8 slices white bread, 1 large English cucumber (thinly sliced), 2 large ripe tomatoes (sliced), 8 oz cream cheese (softened), 2 tablespoons fresh chives (chopped), 1 tablespoon fresh dill, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, salt and white pepper to taste.

How To Make Fresh Cucumber Tomato Sandwich

1. Mix softened cream cheese with chopped chives, dill, and lemon zest until well combined. This herbed spread adds so much more flavor than plain cream cheese.

2. Slice cucumbers and tomatoes as thinly as possible for the best texture. Salt the tomato slices lightly and let them drain on paper towels for 10 minutes.

3. Spread the herbed cream cheese generously on all eight bread slices. This creates a moisture barrier that prevents the bread from getting soggy.

4. Layer cucumber and tomato slices alternately on four bread slices, slightly overlapping for full coverage. Season with a pinch of white pepper.

5. Top with remaining bread slices and press gently. Trim crusts if desired and cut into triangles for an elegant presentation.

15. Chicken Avocado Tomato Sandwich

This protein-packed sandwich combines tender chicken with creamy avocado and fresh tomatoes. It’s substantial enough to keep you energized through the busiest afternoon.

Ingredients: 8 slices multigrain bread, 2 grilled chicken breasts (sliced), 2 ripe avocados, 2 large tomatoes (sliced), 4 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, mixed greens, salt and pepper to taste.

How To Make Chicken Avocado Tomato Sandwich

1. Mash avocados with lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and spreadable. The lime adds brightness and prevents the avocado from browning.

2. Toast multigrain bread until golden brown and nutty-smelling. The hearty bread provides the perfect foundation for these substantial toppings.

3. Spread mayonnaise on four toast slices, then layer with mixed greens to create a barrier between the bread and wet ingredients.

4. Add sliced grilled chicken, mashed avocado spread, and tomato slices in that order. This layering prevents the sandwich from getting soggy.

5. Season tomatoes with salt and pepper, then top with remaining toast slices. Press gently and cut diagonally to serve immediately.

16. Greek Chicken Cucumber Pita

Mediterranean flavors shine in this healthy pita sandwich with seasoned chicken and cooling cucumber yogurt sauce. It’s light yet satisfying for any time of day.

Ingredients: 4 pita breads, 1 lb chicken breast (cubed), 1 large cucumber, 1 cup Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 teaspoon oregano, 1/4 cup red onion (sliced), salt and pepper to taste.

How To Make Greek Chicken Cucumber Pita

1. Season cubed chicken with oregano, salt, and pepper, then cook in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

2. Grate half the cucumber and mix with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and lemon juice to create a cooling sauce. Slice the remaining cucumber for the sandwich.

3. Warm pita breads in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side until soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fill without tearing.

4. Fill each pita with cooked chicken, sliced cucumber, red onion, and a generous dollop of cucumber yogurt sauce.

5. Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm and the pita is soft. The contrast of warm chicken and cool sauce is absolutely perfect.

17. Chicken Shawarma with Yogurt Sauce

This Middle Eastern-inspired sandwich features marinated chicken with bright yogurt sauce. The high-heat cooking method creates incredibly juicy chicken with beautiful caramelized edges.

Ingredients: 4 pita breads, 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless), 1 cup Greek yogurt, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 lemons (juiced), 3 garlic cloves (minced), 2 teaspoons cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 cucumber (diced), 2 tablespoons fresh mint, salt and pepper to taste.

How To Make Chicken Shawarma with Yogurt Sauce

1. Marinate chicken thighs in half the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and paprika for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

2. Cook marinated chicken in a very hot skillet over high heat until deeply browned and charred in spots, about 6-7 minutes per side.

3. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain. The dark meat stays incredibly juicy even with high-heat cooking.

4. Make yogurt sauce by combining remaining yogurt with diced cucumber, fresh mint, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Warm pita breads and fill with sliced chicken and yogurt sauce. The tangy sauce perfectly balances the richly spiced meat.

6. Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm for the best contrast of temperatures and textures in every bite.

Final Thoughts

These sandwich recipes prove that lunch doesn’t have to be boring or complicated to be absolutely delicious and satisfying.

With fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you can create restaurant-quality sandwiches that make every lunch break something special to look forward to.