20 Easy Lunch Ideas For Kids That They Will Actually Like

Do you struggle with getting your kiddo to eat the lunches you pack for them? Have no fear, recipes-your-kids-will-actually-like are here!

Scroll on below for kid-approved lunches that they will for sure finish…

20. Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Pros: chicken nuggets. Cons: needing to make more air-fried chicken nuggets. Kids adore this protein-packed staple and prep time for the parent is under 15 minutes with a handy-dandy air fryer. Need we say more?

19. Leftover Pancake Sandwich

Yup, you read that right! Leftover pancakes are perfect for creating an impromptu sandwich. What’s in the middle you ask? Nutella, peanut butter, cream cheese, or a classic breakfast ham + egg + cheese. The possibilities are endless!

18. Fun Shaped Sandwiches

For the traditionalist child, crafting their favorite sandwiches with a cookie-cutter will not only guarantee glee but also give them something to talk about at the lunch table.

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17. Ham and Cheese Waffles

A dialed-down Monte Cristo sandwich, this delectable and delightful twist on a boring ol’ sandwich will put a pep in your kiddo’s step. Oh, and did we mention they are waaaaay easier to slice? Bonus!

16. Peanut Butter, Strawberry and Honey Sandwich

A punched-up version of the classic PB&J, this yummy take features fresh strawberries – instead of jam that can sometimes be loaded with extra sugar – and a touch of honey to warm it up.

15. Tomato Soup And Grilled Cheese Croutons

For the chilly months, everyone loves a good tomato soup and grilled cheese combo. So why not try a condensed version, featuring a grilled cheese but sliced up into crouton-sized pieces. It’s fun, it’s filling —- and it’s so good, you may even want to make extra for yourself.

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14. Cream Cheese Stuffed Ham

Do you have a picky eater who is not a fan of carbs? Well, this is the recipe for you! Check out this simple and surprisingly delicious protein-packed lunch that literally takes less than a minute to make. Everyone wins!

13. Pepperoni Roll-Ups

The tried and true pepperoni roll-up. It’s perfect for kiddos and adult lunches alike. Pop em’ in the oven the night before and pack them in your kid’s lunches the following morning.

12. Mini Quiches

For the more sophisticated palate, mini quiches can be baked ahead of time and thrown in the freezer for easy access. Try experimenting with different meats and cheeses or — chop up your leftover veggies to sneak some healthy vitamins into your kiddo’s diet.

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11. Fruity Peanut Butter Quesadillas

Simple, nutritious, and packed full of “colors,” these fruity quesadillas paired with peanut butter (or any nut butter really) will be sure to tide over your kiddo until school lets out. This is also an excellent recipe for older children to perfect themselves when they start to show interest in crafting their own lunches.

10. Decorated-Silly Pita Pockets

Pita pockets are perfect for savory sandwiches or a nuts & berry combo but why stop there? With a few extra slices of this and that, you can make your kiddos day with a quick, silly face. Don’t be shy, give them something to laugh about!

9. Take-to-School Taco Bar

If your kid is a big fan of tacos, why not create their own little taco bar that fits into their lunchbox? Be sure to include shredded cheese, sour cream, and any fixin’s they adore.

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8. Everything Bagels with Cream Cheese

Grab a store-bought everything bagel with cream cheese — and boom! A quick and filling lunch. If you think your kiddo may need more protein, stick some avocado or ham in there for a home run.

7. Stove Top Mac And Cheese

Quick and easy, creamy stovetop mac and cheese without any of the extra additives in store-bought boxes, your kiddo will adore you because it’s mac and cheese! What kid doesn’t love that?

6. Kid Bento Box

If you’re running low on groceries and need to make your kid’s lunch “pop” — try putting leftovers and fresh cuts of fruits and veggies in a brightly colored bento box. Remember, we eat with our eyes first!

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5. Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers

If you’re trying to get your kiddo to eat more veggies, this is a fun way to sneak in some yummy crunchy goodness! Perfect warmed up or cold too, and oh, and no soggy bread here!

4. Pizza English Muffin

Grab some of your kid’s favorite English muffins and create a mini pizza for them! Super simple, super cute — and super delicious!

3. Pretzels and Hummus

If you’re feeling fancy and you’re at your wit’s end with what to feed your kiddo, pretzels and hummus are a great combo. And while there is a recipe to make your own, store-bought can save you time and stress. Salty, savory and accompanied by chickpea protein, this lunch combo is perfect for dipping!

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2. Avocado Toast Sandwich

Avocados aren’t just for millennials! If your kiddo is a fan of avocado, then why not craft their very own avocado toast sandwich? It’s bright, it’s bold and yes, mom may want one too!

1. Sushi Sandwich

And last but certainly not least, who said grown-ups were the only ones who could eat sushi?! With a base of bread (or even flatbread) the possibilities are limitless. Cream cheese and raspberries? Yes please! Peanutbutter and chocolate chips? Say no more! Nutella and strawberries! Where can I order? Delicious, delightful and rolls of fun — these little sushi sandwiches are sure to satisfy.