School is back in session and parents everywhere are facing the one dreaded task that is plagues us all – what to make for school lunches. Well, we’ve done some of the work for you. We’ve rounded up some kid-approved, easy-to-make, portable, delicious school lunches that will keep your kids happy and satisfied all year long. These out of the (lunch)box ideas bring so much more to the lunch table than standard PB&J or mac and cheese. When your kids are craving something a little more creative and you’re looking for ideas to break out of the same old lunchtime routine, check out these unique eats that kids of all ages will love. We’re talkin’ cheeseburger biscuit cups, homemade Spaghetti O’s (yes!), pizza muffins, and more! Let’s lunch!
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
These chicken Parmesan meatballs by Real Food by Dad come together in less than 30 minutes. The ingredients get whirred up in a food processor, formed, then baked for 20 minutes. Kids love them, but you will too. They’re great for school lunches, but also work as a fun appetizer or quick weeknight meal.
Homemade Spaghetti O’s
Homemade Spaghetti O’s?! Yes, please! These nostalgic O’s will bring back all the memories. To get this healthier – and tastier – version, look for ditalini or anelletti pasta. Super small pasta is key to this copycat recipe from Don’t Waste the Crumbs. A handful of other real, feel-good ingredients will take this kid-favorite lunch to star status.
Chilled Ramen Noodle Salad
We’re always looking for new ways to serve (and eat) Ramen! This recipe from Just a Taste uses those famous noodles, but skips the seasoning packet. Instead, the cooked noodles are tossed with edamame, purple cabbage, scallions, carrots, and slivered almonds. But get creative – you can use any veggies you have on hand. The homemade dressing is sweet, savory, and perfect for this salad!
Cheeseburger Biscuit Cups
These quick, kid-friendly cheeseburger biscuit cups from Together as Family will be a hit with kids of all ages. These individual burgers are made with refrigerated biscuits and gooey Velveeta cheese. They couldn’t be easier – or tastier!
Crispy, Fried Ravioli
Fried ravioli hails from St. Louis but people everywhere love these bite-sized bundles of yum. They’re easy to make, easy to eat, and easy to love. This fried ravioli recipe from The Chunky Chef is made with frozen ravioli (you can use meat, cheese, or veggie) coated in Italian panko breadcrumbs. They’re fried, then hit with some Parmesan. Pack them up with some marinara sauce for lunch your kids will salivate over.
Veggie-Loaded Pizza Muffins
No matter how you slice it, pizza will always be a favorite go-to for school lunches everywhere. This veggie-loaded pizza muffin from The Natural Nurturer gives kids the pizza they love with all the nutrition parents love. This is a great way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters. These are meant to be served warm – but cold pizza sure never hurt anyone!
BLT Wraps
The great thing about a BLT is that you can leave out the B, the L, or the T for picky eaters and it’s still a great lunch! This fun BLT from Taste of Home comes in a wrap so it’s compact, portable, and easy to eat. Your kids will love this!
Chicken Burrito Bowl
What could be easier than throwing a bunch of tasty ingredients in a bowl and calling it a day? This chicken burrito bowl from No. 2 Pencil is a mix of chicken, Mexican rice, perfectly seasoned black beans, and all your favorite burrito toppings. Customize your kids’ bowls with Mexican cheese, tomatoes, cilantro, guacamole, green onions, sour cream, pico de gallo, and more. To save time when prepping, whip these up with meat from store-bought rotisserie chickens. Yum!
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