23 Nostalgic Lunchbox Favorites Worth Bringing Back

These lunchbox classics remind us of simpler times and mid-day meals made with love. From peanut butter sandwiches to homemade snack cakes, these recipes make it easy to bring a bit of nostalgia back to your table.

Pork Roll Egg and Cheese Sandwich

Pork Roll Egg and Cheese Sandwich
Pork Roll Egg and Cheese Sandwich. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

This iconic breakfast sandwich features crispy pork roll, gooey melted cheese, and a perfectly fried egg on a toasted roll. It’s a satisfying morning meal that delivers savory flavors and hearty satisfaction in every delicious bite.
Get the Recipe: Pork Roll Egg and Cheese Sandwich

Ultimate Corned Beef Breakfast Sandwich Recipe with Swiss Cheese

Ultimate Corned Beef Breakfast Sandwich Recipe with Swiss Cheese
Ultimate Corned Beef Breakfast Sandwich Recipe with Swiss Cheese. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Transform your leftover corned beef into a mouthwatering breakfast masterpiece. Savory, tender meat pairs perfectly with gooey Swiss cheese and a decadent runny egg, all nestled between a toasted English muffin. This satisfying morning sandwich breathes delicious new life into yesterday’s dinner.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Corned Beef Breakfast Sandwich Recipe with Swiss Cheese

Kenny and Ziggy’s Egg Salad Easy

Kenny and Ziggy’s Egg Salad Easy
Kenny and Ziggy’s Egg Salad Easy. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Experience the ultimate comfort of Kenny & Ziggy’s famous deli-style egg salad at home. Every bite delivers perfectly boiled eggs blended with creamy textures and simple seasonings that capture authentic deli flavor. This classic recipe makes lunchtime feel like a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Kenny and Ziggy’s Egg Salad Easy

Amish Sandwich Bread Recipe

Amish Sandwich Bread Recipe
Amish Sandwich Bread Recipe. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

Discover the magic of homemade bread with this foolproof Amish recipe that produces two perfectly soft, golden loaves. Your sandwiches and morning toast will never be the same after experiencing this delightfully simple, comforting classic.
Get the Recipe: Amish Sandwich Bread Recipe

Best Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches

Best Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches
Best Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

Transform your lunch with this elevated chicken salad sandwich featuring sweet apples, toasted pecans, and plump grapes, all nestled in a buttery croissant. The perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and flaky textures makes this classic anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Best Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches

Muffaletta Sandwich

Muffaletta Sandwich
Muffaletta Sandwich. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Savor the iconic New Orleans muffaletta, a perfect harmony of savory deli meats, cheese, and tangy olive spread layered between crusty bread. This easy homemade version brings the Big Easy’s famous flavor right to your kitchen table.
Get the Recipe: Muffaletta Sandwich

Meatball Sandwich Recipe

Meatball Sandwich Recipe
Meatball Sandwich Recipe. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

Satisfy your cravings with these irresistible meatball subs featuring juicy, tender meatballs bathed in rich marinara sauce, tucked into warm rolls and finished with melted cheese that pulls with every bite. A crowd-pleasing comfort classic everyone will love!
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sandwich Recipe

Easy Steak Sandwich

Easy Steak Sandwich
Easy Steak Sandwich. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

Savor each bite of this irresistible Philly Cheesesteak, where tender seasoned beef mingles with gooey provolone, caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms. This beloved comfort food classic delivers rich flavor in every mouthwatering, satisfying bite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Steak Sandwich

Masters Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe

Masters Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
Masters Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Experience the iconic taste of golf’s most prestigious tournament with our copycat Masters Chicken Salad Sandwich recipe. Creamy, perfectly seasoned, and delightfully simple to prepare, this classic sandwich brings Augusta’s beloved tradition straight to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Masters Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe

Kentucky Benedictine Sandwiches With Cream Cheese and Cucumbers

Kentucky Benedictine Sandwiches With Cream Cheese and Cucumbers
Kentucky Benedictine Sandwiches With Cream Cheese and Cucumbers. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

These dainty cucumber sandwiches bring Southern elegance to any gathering. Crisp, thin cucumber slices rest on pillowy bread with a rich, creamy spread that melts in your mouth. A Kentucky tradition that transforms simple ingredients into a refreshing, sophisticated treat perfect for your next special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Kentucky Benedictine Sandwiches With Cream Cheese and Cucumbers

Famous Masters Pimento Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Famous Masters Pimento Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Famous Masters Pimento Cheese Sandwich Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Experience the iconic Masters tradition in your own home. This authentic pimento cheese recipe captures the creamy, tangy flavor that golf fans line up for at Augusta National. Simple to make but packed with sharp cheeses and zesty pimentos, it’s a taste of tournament history no matter where you watch the action.
Get the Recipe: Famous Masters Pimento Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Prosciutto Sandwich

Prosciutto Sandwich
Prosciutto Sandwich. Photo credit: Stetted.

Elevate your sandwich game with this gourmet prosciutto creation! Creamy mozzarella pairs perfectly with sweet jam and tangy balsamic, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. Ready in minutes, it’s the ideal solution for both leisurely lunches and busy weekdays.
Get the Recipe: Prosciutto Sandwich

Pimento Cheese Sandwiches

Pimento Cheese Sandwiches
Pimento Cheese Sandwiches. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

Skip the store-bought and whip up creamy, zesty pimento cheese in minutes! This Southern classic is endlessly customizable—adjust the spices, cheese blend, and texture to create your perfect spread. Once you taste homemade, you’ll never go back to packaged versions again.
Get the Recipe: Pimento Cheese Sandwiches

Pressed Italian Picnic Sandwiches

Pressed Italian Picnic Sandwiches
Pressed Italian Picnic Sandwiches. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Transport yourself to Italy with these pressed picnic sandwiches bursting with authentic flavors. Layers of cured meats, cheeses, and vibrant vegetables create a portable feast perfect for summer gatherings. Make ahead and enjoy the harmonious blend of ingredients as they meld together.
Get the Recipe: Pressed Italian Picnic Sandwiches

Tuna Melt Sandwich

Tuna Melt Sandwich
Tuna Melt Sandwich. Photo credit: Stetted.

This classic tuna melt combines flaky tuna with crisp celery, ripe tomatoes and melted cheese for a quick comfort food fix. Ready in minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something warm and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Melt Sandwich

Turkey Club Sandwich

Turkey Club Sandwich
Turkey Club Sandwich. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

Transform your holiday leftovers into a gourmet experience with this mouthwatering Turkey Club Sandwich. Layered with tender turkey, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, it’s the perfect way to enjoy those holiday flavors in a whole new delicious form.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Club Sandwich

Classic Reuben Sandwich

Classic Reuben Sandwich
Classic Reuben Sandwich. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

Experience the timeless delight of a Reuben sandwich. This mouthwatering classic combines tender meat, melty cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian dressing between toasted bread for a perfect harmony of flavors that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Classic Reuben Sandwich

Submarine Sandwich

Submarine Sandwich
Submarine Sandwich. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

Dive into flavor with this hearty submarine sandwich packed with savory deli meats, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies. Drizzled with tangy sub sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that transforms lunch or dinner into something extraordinary. Your taste buds will thank you!
Get the Recipe: Submarine Sandwich

Cranberry, Feta & Almond Chicken Salad Sandwich

Cranberry, Feta & Almond Chicken Salad Sandwich
Cranberry, Feta & Almond Chicken Salad Sandwich. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

Experience the perfect harmony of tart cranberries, creamy feta, and crunchy almonds in this elevated chicken salad sandwich. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will transform your lunch or make your next picnic truly memorable.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry, Feta & Almond Chicken Salad Sandwich

Chopped Italian Sandwich

Chopped Italian Sandwich
Chopped Italian Sandwich. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This mouthwatering chopped Italian sandwich features a perfect blend of savory cured meats, provolone cheese, and tangy pepperoncini, all nestled in soft Italian sub rolls. It’s a flavor-packed meal that brings authentic deli taste right to your kitchen!
Get the Recipe: Chopped Italian Sandwich

Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut Butter Cookies
Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

These classic criss-cross peanut butter cookies are a gluten-free dream come true. Soft, chewy, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor, they’ll satisfy your sweet cravings without the gluten. Perfect for cookie lovers seeking that nostalgic peanut butter goodness!
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cookies

Old-Fashioned Iced Oatmeal Cookies (Soft And Chewy)

Old-Fashioned Iced Oatmeal Cookies (Soft And Chewy)
Old-Fashioned Iced Oatmeal Cookies (Soft And Chewy). Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

These chewy, spiced oatmeal cookies feature a sweet glaze that cracks perfectly with each bite. They’ll transport you to childhood with their nostalgic flavor while warming your soul like a cozy hug. Perfect for sharing—if you don’t eat them all first!
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Iced Oatmeal Cookies (Soft And Chewy)

Strawberry Yogurt Chocolate Chip Snack Cake

Strawberry Yogurt Chocolate Chip Snack Cake
Strawberry Yogurt Chocolate Chip Snack Cake. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

This delightful dairy-free treat combines fresh strawberry flavor with chocolate chips in a light, tender cake. Made with nutritious oat and whole wheat flours, it’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. Enjoy a slice as an afternoon pick-me-up or dessert!
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Yogurt Chocolate Chip Snack Cake

About Stephanie Manley

Stephanie Manley is the creator of CopyKat.com. She has been recreating copycat recipes since 1995. Learn more about Stephanie Manley.

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