23+ Delicious High Calorie Lunch Recipes for Weight Gain and Energy

When it comes to fueling your body for a productive day, a high-calorie lunch can be a game changer. Whether you’re looking to pack on muscle, boost your energy levels, or simply need a filling and satisfying meal, high-calorie lunch recipes are the way to go. These meals are packed with protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich ingredients to give you sustained energy throughout the day. From hearty sandwiches to creamy pasta dishes, these recipes will leave you feeling full and satisfied without sacrificing flavor. So, if you’re in need of some calorie-packed inspiration, here are 23+ delicious high-calorie lunch ideas that will help you power through your afternoon!

23+ Delicious High Calorie Lunch Recipes for Weight Gain and Energy

When you’re in need of a hearty, energy-boosting meal, these 23+ high-calorie lunch recipes are a great way to go. Whether you’re trying to gain weight, build muscle, or simply want a filling, satisfying meal, these dishes are sure to provide the nutrition and energy you need. Packed with lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains, each recipe will help you stay full and energized throughout the day. So, next time you’re planning your lunch, try one of these tasty and calorie-dense options, and fuel your body the right way!

1. Creamy Avocado Chicken Wrap

Looking for a high-calorie lunch that’s packed with protein and healthy fats? This Creamy Avocado Chicken Wrap is the perfect choice! Made with grilled chicken breast, creamy avocado, mixed greens, and a zesty homemade dressing, it delivers a satisfying and delicious meal. The wrap is filled with energy-boosting ingredients like fiber-rich avocado, lean protein from chicken, and whole-grain tortillas that give you the fuel to power through the day. Pair it with a side of sweet potato fries or a handful of nuts for an extra calorie boost.

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2. Beef & Cheddar Burrito Bowl

Craving something hearty and filling? This Beef & Cheddar Burrito Bowl will leave you full and satisfied! The base of the bowl features seasoned brown rice and black beans, layered with perfectly cooked ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. With a combination of slow-digesting carbs, protein, and healthy fats, this dish provides all the nutrients needed for a high-calorie, energizing lunch. The savory flavors and creamy textures will have you coming back for more.

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3. Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie Bowl

If you want a high-calorie lunch that’s both refreshing and indulgent, this Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie Bowl is for you. Packed with natural peanut butter, ripe bananas, Greek yogurt, and a drizzle of honey, this bowl is full of flavor and creamy goodness. The smoothie base is thick and satisfying, topped with granola, chia seeds, and a sprinkle of coconut flakes for added texture and crunch. This is the perfect mid-day pick-me-up to keep you energized, with healthy fats, protein, and carbs all in one delicious bowl.

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4. Steak & Potato Salad

This Steak & Potato Salad is a hearty, high-calorie lunch packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. The star of the dish is tender, perfectly grilled steak slices, served on a bed of crispy roasted potatoes and mixed greens. Topped with a tangy vinaigrette dressing, this salad offers the best of both worlds: the freshness of greens and the richness of steak and potatoes. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a filling meal that’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or cheese for an added calorie boost.

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5. Bacon & Egg Breakfast Burrito

Why wait for breakfast to enjoy a high-calorie meal? This Bacon & Egg Breakfast Burrito is perfect for lunch, combining crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and nutrients, and finish it off with a dollop of sour cream or salsa. This burrito is rich in calories from healthy fats and protein, making it an ideal meal to keep you full and energized for the rest of your day.

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6. Tuna & Avocado Sushi Rolls

These Tuna & Avocado Sushi Rolls are a unique and satisfying high-calorie lunch option that’s as delicious as it is filling. Made with sushi rice, fresh tuna, creamy avocado, and crunchy cucumber, these rolls offer a great balance of healthy fats, protein, and carbohydrates. The sushi rolls are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients like spicy mayo or sesame seeds. Paired with a miso soup or edamame, this meal provides a light yet satisfying lunch that’s full of flavor and nutrients.

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7. Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

Craving a comforting, high-calorie lunch? The Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a creamy and indulgent dish that’s sure to satisfy your hunger. This dish features tender pieces of grilled chicken mixed with pasta, smothered in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Topped with extra cheese and baked to golden perfection, this pasta bake is the perfect meal to fuel your day. You can even add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.

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8. Salmon & Quinoa Power Bowl

Packed with omega-3s, protein, and fiber, this Salmon & Quinoa Power Bowl is a high-calorie lunch that’s both nutritious and delicious. The base of the bowl features fluffy quinoa, a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, paired with perfectly seared salmon fillets. Topped with sautéed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini, and drizzled with a tangy lemon tahini dressing, this dish is a wholesome combination of flavors and textures. It’s a great option for those seeking a well-balanced meal to keep them energized and full.

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9. Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw

For a satisfying and calorie-dense lunch, these Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw are a must-try. Slow-cooked pork is seasoned to perfection and shredded, served on soft, toasted buns and topped with crunchy, tangy coleslaw for a contrast of flavors and textures. The richness of the pork combined with the refreshing crunch of the slaw makes for a meal that’s both filling and comforting. Pair it with a side of crispy fries or baked beans to complete your high-calorie lunch.

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10. Pesto Chicken Pasta

For a high-calorie lunch that’s both flavorful and filling, try this Pesto Chicken Pasta. Tender pieces of grilled chicken are combined with al dente pasta, all tossed in a rich, homemade basil pesto sauce made with olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The pesto adds a burst of flavor while providing healthy fats to keep you full longer. Add roasted cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra nutrients and color. This pasta is perfect for those looking for a meal that’s both satisfying and full of energizing ingredients.

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11. Loaded Veggie & Hummus Wrap

This Loaded Veggie & Hummus Wrap is a fantastic high-calorie vegetarian lunch that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Packed with roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, cucumbers, spinach, bell peppers, and a generous spread of creamy hummus, this wrap is as filling as it is delicious. The combination of fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein makes it a powerhouse meal. You can add feta cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness, and serve it with a side of crunchy kale chips or a handful of mixed nuts for an added calorie boost.

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12. Shrimp & Avocado Rice Bowl

For a refreshing yet filling high-calorie lunch, the Shrimp & Avocado Rice Bowl is a perfect choice. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a garlic-lime butter sauce and served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice. Topped with slices of creamy avocado, crunchy corn, and fresh cilantro, this bowl is a vibrant combination of flavors and textures. The healthy fats from the avocado and the protein from the shrimp make it a great meal to keep you full and satisfied. You can also add a spicy drizzle of sriracha mayo to enhance the flavor.

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13. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Craving something indulgent and comforting? This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect high-calorie lunch to satisfy your hunger. Creamy mac and cheese is paired with smoky, tender pieces of grilled BBQ chicken for a mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite. The combination of rich cheese sauce, tangy barbecue flavors, and juicy chicken makes this dish extra filling and satisfying. Add a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or some sautéed onions to enhance the flavor and texture for an even heartier meal.

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14. Mediterranean Lamb Wrap

If you’re craving a flavorful, high-calorie lunch, this Mediterranean Lamb Wrap is an ideal choice. Juicy lamb is seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garlic, then seared to perfection and wrapped in a warm pita with hummus, tzatziki, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. The combination of protein-packed lamb and healthy fats from the hummus and tzatziki makes for a filling meal that will keep you energized. Add a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded lunch.

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15. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Rice

This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Rice is a delicious and calorie-dense lunch packed with protein, fiber, and rich flavors. Thinly sliced beef is stir-fried with vibrant broccoli florets in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey. Served over a bed of steamed white or brown rice, this dish provides a hearty balance of nutrients and flavors. The combination of beef’s protein and the fiber from broccoli makes it a perfect meal to keep you full and satisfied throughout the day.

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16. Spicy Chicken & Rice Casserole

This Spicy Chicken & Rice Casserole is a flavorful and calorie-packed dish that will keep you full and satisfied for hours. Tender chicken breast is combined with spicy diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and seasoned rice, all baked together in a cheesy, creamy sauce. The casserole is topped with a layer of melted cheese for extra richness. The heat from the spices and the comfort of the creamy sauce make it the perfect high-calorie lunch to enjoy on a chilly day. Serve it with a side of garlic bread for an even more indulgent meal.

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17. Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice

This Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice is a vibrant and filling high-calorie lunch that brings bold flavors together. The shrimp are simmered in a rich and creamy coconut curry sauce made with coconut milk, curry paste, garlic, ginger, and a squeeze of lime juice. The dish is served over a bed of fragrant jasmine rice, which soaks up the flavorful curry sauce. The combination of protein-rich shrimp and healthy fats from the coconut milk makes this meal both nutritious and indulgent. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a side of crispy naan bread for extra calories.

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18. Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

A Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is the perfect high-calorie lunch if you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. Thinly sliced ribeye steak is sautéed with onions and bell peppers, then piled onto a soft hoagie roll and topped with melty provolone cheese. The rich combination of tender steak, caramelized veggies, and gooey cheese makes for a filling meal that’s sure to curb your hunger. You can add mushrooms or jalapeños for an extra flavor kick, and a side of fries or a pickle will complete the sandwich for the ultimate indulgence.

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19. Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

This Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is a high-calorie lunch that brings together crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese on a soft hoagie roll. The chicken is golden and perfectly seasoned, topped with a generous layer of marinara sauce, and smothered in melted cheese for a decadent, comforting meal. The combination of protein-packed chicken and the rich flavors of the cheese and sauce will keep you satisfied for hours. Pair it with a side of pasta or a simple green salad to make it even more filling.

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20. Sweet Potato & Black Bean Burrito

Looking for a hearty vegetarian lunch? This Sweet Potato & Black Bean Burrito is packed with flavor and calories. Roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, sautéed onions, and bell peppers are wrapped in a warm flour tortilla, topped with avocado, cilantro, and a zesty salsa. The sweetness of the potatoes, the creaminess of the avocado, and the smokiness of the beans make for a satisfying combination that’s not only delicious but also rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Serve it with a side of tortilla chips or Mexican rice for an extra calorie boost.

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21. Turkey & Bacon Club Sandwich

This Turkey & Bacon Club Sandwich is a classic high-calorie lunch that never disappoints. Layers of lean turkey breast, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise are stacked between three slices of toasted bread. The savory combination of turkey, bacon, and creamy mayo will keep you feeling full and satisfied. For an extra twist, add some avocado or a fried egg for a boost of flavor and nutrients. Serve with a side of sweet potato fries or a pickle to make this sandwich the ultimate indulgent meal.

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22. Chicken Fajita Quesadilla

This Chicken Fajita Quesadilla is a delicious and high-calorie lunch that’s packed with protein and flavor. Tender grilled chicken, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and a generous amount of melted cheese are stuffed into a crispy tortilla and grilled to perfection. The combination of savory chicken, smoky fajita seasoning, and gooey cheese makes each bite irresistible. Serve with a side of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream to enhance the flavors and add a bit more richness. This quesadilla is perfect for a filling lunch that will keep you full and satisfied.

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23. Meatball Sub with Marinara

If you’re craving something hearty and indulgent, this Meatball Sub with Marinara is the perfect high-calorie lunch. Soft, toasted sub rolls are filled with juicy, homemade meatballs smothered in tangy marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. The combination of flavorful meatballs, gooey cheese, and rich tomato sauce creates a savory, filling meal that’s hard to resist. Pair it with a side of crispy fries or a simple salad for a complete, satisfying lunch that will fuel you for the rest of your day.

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Conclusion

Eating a high-calorie lunch doesn’t mean you have to compromise on taste or variety. These 23+ recipes are not only calorie-packed, but they are also delicious and versatile. From protein-rich meals to comfort foods and fresh salads, there’s something for every craving and dietary preference. By incorporating these high-calorie lunches into your routine, you’ll stay fueled, satisfied, and ready to take on the rest of your day. Choose your favorites, get creative, and enjoy a lunch that works for you and your body’s needs!