25 Easy Lunch Ideas Kids Will Actually Eat

Mini Pizza Bagels

Mini Pizza Bagels are a fun, customizable favorite that transforms simple bagels into delicious mini pizzas perfect for kids' lunches.

Ingredients:

• 4 mini bagels, sliced in half
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Pepperoni slices or other favorite toppings

Cooking method:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the mini bagel halves on a baking sheet.
3. Spread a spoonful of pizza sauce on each bagel half.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously on top.
5. Add pepperoni slices or any other desired toppings.
6. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving to your little ones.

Rainbow Veggie Wraps

Rainbow Veggie Wraps are a colorful, nutritious way to get kids to enjoy their vegetables wrapped in a tasty tortilla.

Ingredients:

• 4 whole wheat tortillas
• 1 cup hummus
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
• 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers

Cooking method:

1. Spread a layer of hummus over each tortilla.
2. Evenly distribute the carrots, bell peppers, spinach, and cucumbers on top of the hummus.
3. Roll each tortilla tightly, then cut into halves or slices for easier handling.
4. Serve immediately, or wrap in foil for lunchboxes.

Cheesy Quesadilla Wedges

These Cheesy Quesadilla Wedges offer a simple and cheesy delight that can be packed with hidden nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 2 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup black beans (optional)
• 1/4 cup corn kernels (optional)

Cooking method:

1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle cheese evenly over it.
3. Add black beans and corn if using, then top with the second tortilla.
4. Cook until the bottom is golden, then flip and cook the other side.
5. Cut into wedges and serve warm or cold.

Chicken and Veggie Pinwheels

Chicken and Veggie Pinwheels are a perfect protein-packed, bite-sized lunch option that kids will love.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole wheat tortillas
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped broccoli
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes

Cooking method:

1. Spread cream cheese evenly over each tortilla.
2. Layer the shredded chicken, broccoli, and tomatoes on top.
3. Roll each tortilla tightly and slice into pinwheel shapes.
4. Chill before serving for easier handling.

Fruity Chicken Salad Cups

This fruity twist on a classic chicken salad offers a refreshing and sweet option for lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 cup grapes, halved
• 1/4 cup apples, diced
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• Lettuce leaves for serving

Cooking method:

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken, grapes, apples, and yogurt.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Spoon the mixture into lettuce leaves, forming cups.
4. Serve as is, or pack in a lunchbox with extra fruits.

Savory Ham and Cheese Muffins

Savory Ham and Cheese Muffins are a protein-packed, portable meal that can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced ham
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk

Cooking method:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. Mix flour, cheese, and ham in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and milk together, then combine with the dry ingredients.
4. Spoon the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until muffins are golden and firm.

Yogurt Parfait Jars

Yogurt Parfait Jars are a sweet and healthy lunch option that kids can help assemble with their favorite fruits.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Greek yogurt
• 1 cup granola
• 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• Honey (optional)

Cooking method:

1. Layer yogurt, granola, and mixed berries in small jars or cups.
2. Repeat the layers until the jars are filled.
3. Drizzle with honey if desired.
4. Seal with lids and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos

Packed with nutrients, these Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos offer a filling and flavorful meal kids will enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 4 large tortillas

Cooking method:

1. Mix mashed sweet potatoes, black beans, and salsa in a bowl.
2. Spread the mixture evenly onto each tortilla.
3. Roll tightly and seal with a toothpick or wrap in foil.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Egg and Avocado Toast

Egg and Avocado Toast is a simple yet satisfying lunch choice packed with healthy fats and protein.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices whole grain bread
• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking method:

1. Toast the bread slices until golden.
2. Spread mashed avocado over each toast.
3. Layer with sliced eggs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cut into smaller pieces for easy handling by little hands.

Peanut Butter and Banana Sushi

Peanut Butter and Banana Sushi is a fun twist on the classic PB&J that's perfect for lunchtime fun.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole wheat tortillas
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 2 bananas

Cooking method:

1. Spread peanut butter evenly over each tortilla.
2. Place a banana at one edge of the tortilla, then roll up tightly.
3. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve as fun sushi rolls.