It’s that time of year again—whether you’re packing your child’s first school lunch and hoping they eat it, or you’re a seasoned pro still trying to crack the code on making a lunch that gets eaten, lunchbox success can feel like a guessing game. But don’t worry! The trick is to keep it simple, get your little ones involved in choosing what goes in, and make sure it’s easy to eat (because, let’s face it, kids aren’t exactly known for their time management skills). With a few quick ideas, you’ll be packing lunches they’ll look forward to—and have time to finish before the bell rings! Here are some kid-friendly lunch recipes we’ve found that we think will inspire you. 

Spinach and Turkey Pinwheels 

Bite-sized pinwheels are a fantastic option that feels like a snack but provides just the right portion for a satisfying lunch. For a tasty twist, try Taste of Home’s turkey and spinach pinwheels—they’re low in fat, a good source of protein, and bursting with flavour thanks to the vegetable cream cheese spread. This combination provides essential nutrients for your child’s growth and development. If your kids aren’t fans of spinach, you can easily swap it out for sliced cucumbers. The best part? You can prepare these bite-sized delights the day before, making it easy to pop them into your kids’ lunchboxes in the morning. 

Broccoli  Mac and Cheese 

We can’t overlook this popular family favourite that’s delicious and kid-approved! This cheesy pasta dish, lovingly dubbed “Cheese Heaven,” can be made for dinner for the whole family to enjoy, with plenty of leftovers for the next day. We are loving Sweet Savory and Steph’s broccoli mac and cheese is a sure winner, as its flavorful combination is a powerhouse meal packed with protein and calcium. The pasta provides fibre and energy-producing carbohydrates, making it the ideal lunchtime fuel for your little ones. If broccoli is not their thing, you can easily substitute it with spinach or cauliflower for a tasty veggie twist. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra greens! 

Also, when prepping a hot lunch, such as stews, pasta, or, in this case, broccoli mac and cheese, warm the lunch thermos by filling it with boiling water. Put the lid on and let it sit for a few minutes, then pour out the water. Once the thermos is warm, quickly add your steaming hot food (at or above 74°C or 165°F) and seal the lid tightly. 

Chicken Quesadillas 

Chicken quesadillas are a perfect lunch option for kids, especially when you’re short on time. With just a few chopped veggies and some pre-cooked chicken, you can whip up the filling quickly, fill the tortillas, and grill them before tucking them into a heated thermos. You can cook everything the night before and prep the tortillas in the morning for a super easy and tasty lunch. Momsdish’s easy chicken quesadillas recipe includes red peppers, but feel free to sneak in extra veggies to boost the nutrition. And don’t forget—using leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken makes this dish even more convenient and delicious. 

Homemade Lunchables 

One of the most popular and versatile lunches for kids is homemade Lunchables! This fun and interactive option lets your little ones get involved in packing their favourites and healthy bites. The Best Ideas for Kids has some inspiring ideas for Lunchables options. Picture a mix of colourful veggies, lean meats, grains, and fresh fruit, all arranged in a vibrant bento box. The possibilities are endless! With a focus on balanced nutrition—think proteins, healthy carbs, and a variety of nutrients—every bite-sized piece should be easy to pick up and enjoy. Add sliced peppers, cucumbers, halved grapes, or cubed cantaloupe alongside crackers, low-sodium meats, and sliced cheese. Not only does it make lunchtime delicious, but it also makes it fun. 

You know your child best, so stick with what they’ll enjoy. Surprising them with something new in their lunch might sound fun, but kids aren’t always fans of unexpected foods. If you’re introducing something new, try it out with them before the big day—this way, you’ll have time to devise a backup plan if needed. And remember, we’ve got you covered when it comes to portion sizes—not too much, but enough to keep them satisfied with quality bites they’ll love!