Are you tired of hearing “I don’t like what’s for lunch” from your little ones? Do you struggle to come up with healthy, kid-friendly meal ideas that are also quick and easy to prepare? You’re not alone! As a parent, it can be overwhelming to think about packing a lunch that will satisfy your child’s cravings while also meeting their nutritional needs. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 quick and easy lunch recipes that kids will love.
From cheesy quesadillas with hidden veggies to yogurt parfaits with granola, these recipes are perfect for busy parents who want to ensure their kids are getting the nutrients they need to thrive. And the best part? They’re all super easy to make and can be customized to suit your child’s tastes. So why not give them a try and see what your little ones think? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these delicious recipes and provide you with all the ingredients and instructions you need to get started.
Cheesy Quesadilla with Hidden Veggies
Transform ordinary quesadillas into a nutritious treat by hiding finely chopped veggies within the cheesy filling!
Ingredients:
– 2 whole wheat tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup finely chopped bell peppers
– 1/4 cup cooked black beans, mashed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of the cheese, bell peppers, and black beans.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the veggie-cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make the second quesadilla.
7. Serve warm, cut into wedges.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Peanut Butter and Banana Roll-Ups
A classic snack gets a delicious twist with these easy-to-make roll-ups. With just a few ingredients, you can create a tasty treat that’s perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1 large flour tortilla (8-10 inches)
– Optional: honey, granola, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread one-quarter of the peanut butter along the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border at each end.
3. Arrange two slices of banana side by side on top of the peanut butter.
4. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the tortilla to form a neat cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients to make additional roll-ups.
Cooking Time: None! These are ready to eat as soon as you assemble them.
Mini Pizza Bagels
Mini Pizza Bagels Recipe
Elevate snack time with these bite-sized, flavorful treats that combine the best of pizza and bagel worlds.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 mini bagels (or regular bagels cut into quarters)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni slices, chopped bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, olives)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread a small amount of marinara sauce on each bagel quarter.
3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
4. Add your desired toppings.
5. Place the mini pizza bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels
Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels: A Delicious and Easy Lunch Option!
These pinwheels are perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or snack. With their soft, cheesy center and crispy turkey wrap exterior, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of whole wheat tortillas (6-8 count)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sliced deli turkey breast
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
3. Lay out a tortilla and spread one-quarter of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with sliced turkey breast, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Roll up the pinwheel tightly but gently, applying even pressure.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortilla is crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rainbow Veggie Wraps
Add some color and nutrition to your meals with these vibrant Rainbow Veggie Wraps! Made with a variety of colorful vegetables, whole wheat wraps, and creamy hummus, this recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package whole wheat tortilla wraps
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup sliced avocado
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of hummus on each tortilla wrap.
3. Top with black beans, carrots, bell peppers, and avocado slices.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roll up the wraps tightly and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mac and Cheese Muffins
Elevate your snack game with these creamy, cheesy muffins that combine the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the convenience of a handheld treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Butter, melted (for greasing the muffin tin)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with melted butter.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together macaroni, milk, eggs, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Cheese Sliders
These bite-sized sandwiches are perfect for a quick snack or gathering with friends. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying flavorful and satisfying sliders in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– 4 oz ham, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each baguette slice.
3. Place two slices, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with ham, cheese, and parsley.
5. Fold the other baguette slice, buttered side up, to form a triangle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes or until crispy.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Ham and Cheese Sliders!
Yogurt Parfait with Granola
Start your day or fuel up after a workout with this simple yet satisfying yogurt parfait. Layered with crunchy granola, sweet fruit, and creamy yogurt, it’s the perfect combination for a quick energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons granola
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, layer the yogurt, granola, and berries.
2. If desired, drizzle with honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
3. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This parfait is ready in just minutes.
Tuna Salad Cucumber Boats
This recipe turns traditional tuna salad into a light and refreshing appetizer or snack by serving it in cool cucumber boats. Perfect for warm weather, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 cucumber slices (about 1 inch thick)
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
2. Slice the cucumbers into boats. Scoop out some of the insides to make room for the tuna salad.
3. Fill each cucumber boat with about 1-2 tablespoons of tuna salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pasta Salad with Hidden Veggies
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. With hidden veggies like zucchini and carrots, you’ll be getting a nutritious dose of fiber and vitamins without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, spiralized zucchini, grated carrots, and cherry tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Cheese with Apple Slices
Elevate your grilled cheese game by adding crisp apple slices to the mix. This sweet and savory combination is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread
– 1-2 tablespoons of butter, divided
– 1-2 slices of cheddar or American cheese
– 1/2 apple, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheese and 1-2 apple slices.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Ants on a Log (Celery with Peanut Butter and Raisins)
Ants on a Log is a simple, tasty snack that’s perfect for school lunches, after-school treats, or just a quick pick-me-up. This classic recipe has been delighting kids and adults alike for generations!
Ingredients:
– 1-2 stalks of celery
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Cut the celery stalks into desired lengths.
2. Spread 1-2 tbsp of peanut butter onto each celery stick, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Place 2-3 raisins on top of the peanut butter.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed! Just assemble and serve.
Mini Pancake Stacks with Fruit
Start your day with a stack of fluffy mini pancakes topped with sweet and tangy fresh fruit. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Fresh fruit of your choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, bananas)
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and a pinch of salt.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, flip, and cook for another minute.
7. Stack pancakes with fresh fruit and drizzle with maple syrup or honey (if using).
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Nuggets with Sweet Potato Fries
This classic comfort food combo is a crowd-pleaser, and with these simple steps, you can create it at home. Crunchy chicken nuggets paired with sweet potato fries make for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip chicken pieces in eggs, then coat with flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dredge nuggets in panko breadcrumbs.
5. Fry coated nuggets in hot oil until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
6. Bake sweet potato fries at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time:
– Chicken Nuggets: 5-6 minutes frying time
– Sweet Potato Fries: 20-25 minutes baking time
Egg Salad Sandwich Cutouts
Transform plain old egg salad sandwiches into adorable cutouts perfect for kids’ lunches or parties. This simple recipe is a great way to get creative with your sandwich-making.
Ingredients:
– 4 hard-boiled eggs, cooled and chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Optional: edible markers or food coloring for decorating
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and dill. Mix until smooth.
2. Lay out the bread slices on a flat surface.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of egg salad onto each slice, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut out fun shapes from the egg salad.
5. Place the cutouts on top of the remaining bread slice and press gently.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Fruit and Cheese Kabobs
Elevate your snack game with these colorful fruit and cheese kabobs, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fruit (grapes, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi)
– 8 oz cubed cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or feta)
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Optional: honey or yogurt for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Thread a piece of fruit and a cube of cheese onto each skewer.
3. Repeat step 2 until the skewer is full, leaving a small space at the top.
4. Place the kabobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the fruit is tender.
6. Serve warm with honey or yogurt for dipping (optional).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Mini Corn Dog Muffins
Elevate your snack game with these adorable mini muffins that combine the magic of corn dogs and the convenience of a handheld treat. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just because!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup chopped hot dogs (such as mini Vienna sausages)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cornmeal and chopped hot dogs.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Avocado Toast with Cherry Tomatoes
A simple yet flavorful twist on classic avocado toast, this recipe adds sweet and tangy cherry tomatoes to create a delightful breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Arrange the cherry tomato halves on top of the avocado.
4. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Homemade Lunchables with Crackers and Turkey
Elevate your lunch game by making your own Homemade Lunchables with crackers and turkey. This recipe is quick, easy, and customizable to your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sliced turkey breast
– 1 cup whole wheat crackers
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise or spread (optional)
– Lettuce leaves or spinach for garnish
Instructions:
1. Lay out the whole wheat crackers on a flat surface.
2. Arrange the sliced turkey breast on top of the crackers, leaving a small border around each piece.
3. If using cheese and/or mayonnaise, place a small amount on top of the turkey.
4. Garnish with lettuce leaves or spinach for added freshness.
5. Assemble the Homemade Lunchables by placing 2-3 crackers, turkey, and cheese (if using) in a small container or bag.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes
This recipe combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the flavors of steamed broccoli and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the potatoes are baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
5. Add chopped broccoli and cook until heated through.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
7. Slice the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to make room for filling.
8. Stuff each potato with the broccoli mixture, then top with grated cheese.
9. Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Summary
Get ready for a delicious and stress-free lunchtime with these 20 quick and easy recipes that kids will love! From classic favorites like mac and cheese muffins and grilled cheese with apple slices, to healthy twists like rainbow veggie wraps and avocado toast, there’s something for every little palate. Plus, sneak in some hidden veggies with cheesy quesadillas or pasta salad. Perfect for busy parents on-the-go, these recipes are easy to make and pack, making lunchtime a breeze.
