Check out this back to school recipe list to get ready for the school season ! Each of these 26 recipes has been selected for its balance of flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation, ensuring your child gets a tasty and healthy meal or snack. From wholesome sandwiches to creative twists on classic favorites, these recipes provide variety and cater to different taste preferences, making meal planning a breeze.
Save time with make-ahead options and enjoy the convenience of meals that are perfect for packed lunches. Explore our list and discover recipes that will keep your kids satisfied and energized for their busy school days.
1. Quick and Easy Breakfast Burritos
A Convenient, Protein-Rich Start
Begin your school day with these quick and easy breakfast burritos, packed with protein and customizable to your tastes. You can fill these tortillas with scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, and your favorite breakfast meat, like bacon or sausage, to start your day right.
Great for Meal Prepping
Take advantage of this recipe’s suitability for meal prepping. Make a batch of burritos at the beginning of the week, wrap them individually in foil, and store them in the freezer. On school mornings, simply heat them up for a delicious and nutritious breakfast on the go.
Customize to Your Liking
Feel free to play around with the fillings. Add vegetables such as bell peppers or tomatoes for added nutrients, or switch out the meat for a vegetarian alternative. This versatile recipe allows you to tailor the burritos to your dietary preferences.
2. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sushi Rolls
A Fun Twist on a Classic
Peanut butter and jelly sushi rolls are a fun and creative twist on the traditional sandwich. Using the same ingredients – bread, peanut butter, and jelly – these sushi rolls make for a whimsical lunchbox surprise that is both tasty and visually appealing.
Easy to Prepare
These sushi rolls are incredibly easy to make, requiring no special tools or cooking skills. Even on a busy school morning, you can quickly put together a handful of these delightful treats.
Nut-Free Options
For those with nut allergies, you can easily substitute the peanut butter with a nut-free spread like SunButter or Wowbutter. The jelly can be swapped out for any preferred fruit jam or preserve.
3. Veggie and Hummus Sandwich
Nutritious and Satisfying
This veggie and hummus sandwich is a nutrient-rich lunch option that will keep you satisfied throughout the school day. Packed with a rainbow of vegetables and protein-rich hummus, this sandwich is a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Quick Assembly
Assembling this sandwich is a breeze. All you need is your favorite whole grain bread, hummus, and a selection of fresh vegetables. The key is to use a variety of veggies for an array of colors, textures, and flavors.
Personalize Your Sandwich
Feel free to customize the sandwich to your liking by adding different veggies or swapping out the hummus for another protein-filled spread. This versatile recipe can be easily modified to suit your taste buds and dietary needs.
4. Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Stuffed Peppers
A Protein-Packed Lunch
These Greek yogurt chicken salad stuffed peppers are a protein-filled, nutrient-dense option for your school lunches. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy Greek yogurt creates a satisfying dish that is sure to be a hit.
Easy Preparation
This recipe requires minimal preparation. Simply mix together the chicken salad ingredients, cut a bell pepper in half, and stuff each half with the chicken salad. It’s a fresh, healthy lunch option that can be prepared ahead of time.
Customize Your Fillings
You have the liberty to mix and match the fillings to suit your tastes. Try adding different herbs, using a variety of vegetables, or swapping out the chicken for another lean protein. This flexible recipe is easy to adapt to your preferences.
5. Cheesy Pizza Quesadillas
A Fun, Kid-Friendly Dish
Who wouldn’t love a combination of pizza and quesadillas? These cheesy pizza quesadillas are a fun and kid-friendly dish that you can customize to your heart’s content. Use your favorite pizza toppings and make a delicious lunchtime treat.
Quick and Easy
These quesadillas are incredibly quick and easy to make. Just spread some marinara sauce on a tortilla, sprinkle cheese and your favorite toppings, cover with another tortilla, and cook until golden and crispy.
Versatility at its Best
You can alter the fillings based on your preference. Consider using different types of cheese, a variety of vegetables, or even some cooked chicken for added protein. This versatile recipe is easy to tweak according to your dietary needs and taste preferences.
6. Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups
A Lunchbox Classic
These ham and cheese roll-ups are a classic lunchbox option that never gets old. Simple yet flavorful, these roll-ups are a satisfying and easy-to-make lunch option.
Read also: 24 Ramen Recipes
Minimal Preparation
With only three ingredients – ham, cheese, and tortillas – these roll-ups require minimal preparation. They can be made quickly in the morning or even prepped the night before to save time.
Add Your Spin
Feel free to add a spread like mustard or mayo, or incorporate other ingredients like lettuce or tomato slices. This basic recipe can easily be tailored to accommodate various tastes and preferences.
7. Veggie Pasta Salad
A Colorful, Nutrient-Rich Meal
This veggie pasta salad is a delightful mix of colorful vegetables and whole grain pasta, tossed in a light vinaigrette. It’s a nutrient-packed meal that can be enjoyed either cold or at room temperature.
Perfect for Meal Prep
You can prepare this salad in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors will meld together, and the salad will taste even better after a day or two. This makes it a perfect meal-prep option for school lunches.
Flexibility to Customize
Feel free to mix and match the veggies based on your preference or what’s in season. You could also add some grilled chicken, tofu, or beans for additional protein. The options are endless!
8. Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels
Protein-Packed Lunch Option
These turkey and cheese pinwheels are a protein-packed, flavorful option for school lunches. Made with tortillas, turkey slices, cheese, and your choice of spread, they’re simple, fun, and delicious.
Easy and Quick to Make
These pinwheels can be put together in just a few minutes and require no cooking. Simply layer your ingredients onto a tortilla, roll it up, and slice into bite-sized pieces.
Add Your Favorite Fillings
The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize the fillings to your liking. Consider adding some veggies for extra crunch, swap out the turkey for another type of deli meat, or use a flavored cream cheese for added zest.
9. Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
A Healthy and Hearty Breakfast
Apple cinnamon overnight oats are a healthy, hearty breakfast that can be prepped the night before. With oats, apple, cinnamon, and your choice of milk, this breakfast is nutritious and filling, making it perfect for a busy school day.
Time-Saving Recipe
Since these overnight oats are prepared the night before, there’s no need to worry about making breakfast on a busy school morning. Simply mix the ingredients together, place in the fridge overnight, and enjoy in the morning.
Versatility to Suit Your Preferences
This recipe is very versatile. You can add other fruits, nuts, seeds, or sweeteners according to your preferences. This means you can create different variations to keep breakfast exciting and catered to your taste.
10. Turkey Avocado Roll-Ups
A Low-Carb Lunch Option
These turkey avocado roll-ups are a low-carb, protein-rich lunch option that’s easy to make and perfect for school. With turkey, avocado, cheese, and a little bit of seasoning, these roll-ups are a delightful lunchtime treat.
Quick and Convenient
With minimal ingredients and no need for cooking, these roll-ups are incredibly quick to make. They can be easily prepped in the morning before school or made the night before and stored in the fridge.
Flexible to Your Liking
Feel free to add other ingredients to your roll-ups. Some veggies for extra crunch, a different type of cheese, or even a flavored cream cheese spread would work well. This recipe is easy to adapt based on your preferences.
11. Easy Energy Balls
A Nutritious Snack Option
These easy energy balls are a nutrient-dense snack that is perfect for school. Made with oats, peanut butter, honey, and your choice of mix-ins, they are both delicious and satisfying.
Simple and Quick to Make
With no cooking required, these energy balls are very simple to make. Simply mix all the ingredients together, form into balls, and refrigerate. They can be made in a batch and stored in the fridge for the week.
Customizable Recipe
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. You can add in nuts, seeds, dried fruit, or chocolate chips. For a nut-free version, you can substitute the peanut butter with SunButter or a similar alternative.
12. Mini Quiches
Protein-Packed Bite-Sized Treats
These mini quiches are protein-packed, bite-sized treats that make for a great school lunch or snack. Made with eggs, cheese, and your choice of fillings, they are a versatile option that can cater to various tastes.
Great for Meal Prepping
Mini quiches can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen, making them a great option for meal prepping. They can be reheated quickly in the microwave for a quick, nutritious lunch or snack.
Your Choice of Fillings
You can customize the fillings in your mini quiches according to your preferences. Consider using different types of cheese, a variety of vegetables, or even some cooked chicken or bacon. The options are endless!
13. Veggie-Loaded Pizza Rolls
A Fun Twist on a Classic
Veggie-loaded pizza rolls are a fun and healthier twist on a classic favorite. Filled with tomato sauce, cheese, and plenty of veggies, these rolls are a surefire hit for school lunches.
An Easy, Make-Ahead Lunch
These pizza rolls can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. They reheat well and can be packed in a lunchbox with some fruits or veggies on the side for a complete meal.
Customize Your Fillings
Feel free to customize the fillings based on your child’s preferences. Use different vegetables, try various cheeses, or even add some cooked chicken or turkey for added protein.
14. Veggie Hummus Wraps
A Fresh, Nutrient-Dense Lunch
These veggie hummus wraps are a fresh, nutrient-dense lunch option perfect for school. Loaded with colorful vegetables and protein-rich hummus, they’re not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Quick and Easy to Make
These wraps require minimal preparation and no cooking, making them an excellent quick and easy lunch option. Simply spread the hummus onto a tortilla, layer your veggies, and roll it up.
Choose Your Favorites
You can easily modify this recipe to include your favorite vegetables and flavored hummus. This flexibility allows you to cater to specific tastes and keep the lunches varied and exciting.
15. Peanut Butter Banana Wraps
A Satisfying, Energy-Boosting Lunch
Peanut butter banana wraps are a simple yet satisfying lunch option that provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and energy-boosting carbohydrates. They’re easy to make and loved by kids.
Quick and Convenient
These wraps can be made in minutes, making them a convenient choice for busy school mornings. Just spread peanut butter onto a whole grain tortilla, place a banana on top, and roll it up.
Add Some Extras
For extra flavor and nutrition, consider adding a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or some granola for added crunch. You could also substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or a nut-free alternative if necessary.
16. Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
A Deliciously Balanced Meal
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad offers a great balance of protein, carbohydrates, and veggies. It combines cooked chicken, whole grain pasta, and crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing for a deliciously balanced meal.
Great for Meal Prep
You can prepare this salad in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors blend beautifully over time, making it a perfect choice for meal prep and packed school lunches.
Customize to Your Preference
Feel free to customize the salad to suit your tastes. You could swap the chicken for turkey or tofu, try a different type of pasta, or add in some extra veggies like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers.
17. Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels
A Vibrant and Nutritious Snack
These Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels are a vibrant and nutrient-packed snack perfect for school. With colorful veggies and cream cheese rolled up in a tortilla, they’re as fun to eat as they are to look at.
Easy and Fun to Make
Making these pinwheels is an easy task, and it can be fun too if you get the kids involved. Just spread cream cheese on a tortilla, layer on the veggies, roll it up, and then slice into bite-sized pieces.
Personalize Your Pinwheels
These pinwheels can be easily customized to your liking. Choose your favorite veggies, try flavored cream cheese, or even add some shredded chicken or turkey for extra protein.
18. Apple Sandwiches
A Fun and Healthy Snack
Apple sandwiches are a fun, healthy snack that’s perfect for school. With slices of apple, peanut butter, and granola, they’re a tasty combination of crisp, creamy, and crunchy.
Quick and Easy to Make
These sandwiches require minimal preparation and no cooking. Simply slice the apples, spread on the peanut butter, sprinkle with granola, and assemble.
Flexible to Your Preferences
You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes. Use almond butter instead of peanut butter, try different types of granola, or even add in some raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
19. Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas
A Kid-Friendly Favorite
Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas are a kid-friendly favorite that’s perfect for school lunches. With cooked chicken, cheese, and a whole grain tortilla, they are a balanced, protein-rich option.
Read also: 37 Cottage Cheese Recipes
Easy to Cook and Pack
These quesadillas can be quickly cooked up in a skillet and then packed in a lunchbox. They can be eaten warm or at room temperature, making them a convenient school lunch choice.
Customize Your Fillings
The fillings for these quesadillas can be easily customized. Consider adding some veggies like bell peppers or spinach, or try different types of cheese to vary the flavor.
20. Greek Yogurt Parfait
A Protein-Packed Breakfast or Snack
Greek Yogurt Parfait is a protein-packed breakfast or snack perfect for school. Layered with Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh fruits, it’s as delicious as it is healthy.
Quick and Versatile
This parfait takes just minutes to assemble, making it an excellent option for a quick breakfast or snack. Plus, it’s easy to vary the flavors by using different types of fruits, granola, and yogurt.
Create Your Perfect Parfait
Customize your parfait to your preference. Try using flavored Greek yogurt, different granola blends, or a variety of fruits. For an extra touch, you can add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chia seeds on top.
21. Veggie-Loaded Mini Quiches
Nutritious and Flavorful Bite-Sized Snacks
These veggie-loaded mini quiches are a nutritious and flavorful snack perfect for school. Packed with a variety of vegetables and protein-rich eggs, they’re a balanced and satisfying option.
Ideal for Meal Prep
These mini quiches can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat in the morning, and you have a ready-to-go snack that’s both tasty and healthy.
Customize with Your Favorite Veggies
Feel free to customize the veggies in this recipe based on your preferences. Try adding different types of cheese or some cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
22. Homemade Granola Bars
A Healthy and Portable Snack
Homemade granola bars are a healthy, portable snack perfect for school. Packed with oats, nuts, and honey, they’re a nutritious option that offers plenty of energy for a busy school day.
Make Ahead for Convenience
These granola bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. This convenience makes them a great option for quick grab-and-go snacks.
Customize Your Bars
Feel free to add in your favorite mix-ins, like dried fruit, chocolate chips, or different types of nuts. You can also adjust the sweeteners based on your preference.
23. Veggie and Cream Cheese Turkey Sandwich
A Wholesome and Filling Lunch
This veggie and cream cheese turkey sandwich is a wholesome and filling lunch option that’s perfect for school. Packed with turkey, veggies, and cream cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that provides a good balance of nutrients.
Quick and Easy to Assemble
This sandwich requires minimal preparation and can be assembled in just a few minutes. Plus, it’s easy to pack, making it an ideal choice for school lunches.
Customize to Your Liking
You can easily adapt this sandwich to suit your tastes. Use your favorite veggies, try different flavored cream cheeses, or swap the turkey for another type of lunch meat.
24. Mini Pizza Bagels
A School Lunch Favorite
These Mini Pizza Bagels are a school lunch favorite that can be customized to your liking. With bagels, pizza sauce, cheese, and your choice of toppings, they’re a fun and tasty option for school.
Quick and Easy to Cook
These mini pizzas are quick to assemble and take only a few minutes to cook. Plus, they can be eaten warm or at room temperature, making them a convenient lunch option.
Customize Your Toppings
You can easily adapt the toppings based on your preferences. Try adding different types of cheese, a variety of veggies, or even some cooked chicken or ham for extra protein.
25. Baked Zucchini Fritters
A Veggie-Packed, Savory Snack
These Baked Zucchini Fritters are a veggie-packed, savory snack that’s perfect for school. They’re a tasty way to sneak in some extra vegetables, and they’re portable, making them a convenient snack option.
Ideal for Meal Prep
These fritters can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just reheat in the morning, and they’re ready to go. This convenience makes them a great option for quick school lunches or snacks.
Customize Your Fritters
Feel free to adapt this recipe to your liking. Try adding different types of veggies, cheese, or spices to create your ideal fritter.
26. Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A Balanced, Nutritious Lunch
This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a balanced, nutritious lunch option that’s perfect for school. It combines whole grain rice, broccoli, and cheese to create a satisfying and nutrient-dense meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This casserole is ideal for meal prep, as it can be made in advance and reheated when needed. This convenience makes it a great option for school lunches, saving you precious time on busy mornings.
Adaptable to Your Preferences
Feel free to adapt this recipe to your liking. Try using a different type of cheese, adding cooked chicken for extra protein, or using other veggies like cauliflower or bell peppers.
Conclusion
These 26 back-to-school recipes make meal planning simple, nutritious, and delicious. By offering a variety of options, you can keep your children’s lunches exciting and varied, while also ensuring they are getting a balanced and healthy diet.
Whether you’re looking for quick, on-the-go snacks, satisfying main meals, or creative takes on classic favorites, this list has you covered. So start prepping these meals and snacks, and make the back-to-school transition smoother and tastier for both you and your kids. Enjoy the school year with these easy and nutritious recipes.