As the back-to-school season approaches, parents often find themselves in a lunchtime rut, packing the same old sandwiches day after day.
While sandwiches are a convenient option, they can become monotonous for children, leading to uneaten lunches and wasted food. It’s time to think outside the sandwich box and explore a variety of delicious, nutritious, and exciting lunch ideas that will keep your child eagerly anticipating lunchtime.
From creative roll-ups and hearty pasta salads to fun mini pancakes and flavorful burrito bowls, there are countless non-sandwich options that are easy to prepare and sure to be a hit.
In this blog, we will show you a range of innovative lunch ideas, share tips on transforming leftovers, and offer suggestions for packing balanced, appealing meals that cater to even the pickiest eaters.
Say goodbye to sandwich fatigue and hello to a new world of lunchtime possibilities!
How Can You Cater to Picky Eaters with Non-Sandwich Lunches?
Catering to picky eaters can be challenging, but it’s possible with simple and familiar ingredients.
Roll-ups with cream cheese and Vienna bread, mini corndogs with ketchup, or pasta with lentils, meat, and veggies are all great options.
Including favorite fruits and a small treat can help ensure that even the pickiest eaters enjoy their lunch.
How Can You Make Lunchtime Fun and Exciting for Kids?
Making lunchtime fun can encourage kids to eat their meals and look forward to them.
Use colorful and playful foods like mini waffles, pizza twists, or dino pasta salads.
Including a special treat like a few pieces of candy or a favorite cookie can also add an element of surprise and delight.
Our Favorite Non Sandwich Back to School Lunch Ideas
While there are a ton of great options – these are some of our favorites!
Chicken Strip Sushi
This sushi roll idea is both budget friendly and healthy! Adding in the fruits and veggies, plus snack make it a perfect meal for any little one headed back to school!
Egg Salad Sandwich Dumplings
I know, I know we said non-sandwhich ideas – but to be fair, these dumplings are anything but a boring sandwich!
The fresh fruit and carrot sticks will also be a hit. Plus what’s a school lunch without a treat!
Ham/Turkey Roll Ups
Ditch the bread and opt for protein-packed ham or turkey roll-ups as a fun and tasty main course for your child’s lunch.
These roll-ups are not only easy to prepare but also perfect for little hands to hold. Pair them with a medley of fresh grapes and apple slices for a sweet, juicy complement.
For a bit of crunch, add air chips and pretzels on the side. This combination provides a balanced, nutritious meal that will keep your child energized and satisfied throughout the school day.
Mini Pancakes with Fresh Fruit and Veggies
Make lunchtime exciting with mini pancakes served alongside a vibrant mix of fresh strawberries, orange slices, and grapes.
These bite-sized pancakes are not only fun to eat but also provide a comforting, familiar taste. Balance the sweetness with some refreshing cucumber and cherry tomatoes, adding a healthy crunch to the meal.
For a special treat, include a rice crispy treat for a bit of sweetness. Paired with a small container of milk, this lunch is both delightful and nutritious, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures to keep your child happy and full.
Hawaiian Roll Pizzas with Peanut Butter Graham Crackers and Fruit
Transform lunchtime with delicious Hawaiian roll pizzas, a fun twist on a classic favorite. These mini pizzas, made with sweet Hawaiian rolls, are topped with flavorful ingredients that are sure to be a hit.
Complement the main course with peanut butter graham crackers, offering a satisfying mix of creamy and crunchy textures.
For a burst of natural sweetness, add a side of fresh mango slices and juicy blueberries. This lunch is a delightful combination of savory and sweet, providing a balanced meal that your child will look forward to enjoying.
Nutella Puff Pastry Pies with Fresh Fruit and Drinks
Add a touch of indulgence to your child’s lunch with Nutella puff pastry pies.
These flaky, golden pastries filled with creamy Nutella are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Balance the sweetness with a side of fresh apple slices and juicy blueberries for a refreshing and nutritious snack.
Include a bottle of drinking yogurt to provide a creamy, probiotic-rich option, and pack a juice box and water bottle to keep your child hydrated throughout the day.
This lunch offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a fun and enjoyable meal that also provides essential nutrients.
Non Sandwich Back to School Lunch Ideas Made from Leftovers
Need something fast for lunch without breaking the budget? Try some of these great back to school lunch ideas using leftovers!
Cheese, Sausage, and Crackers with Veggies and Chocolate Treat
Turn holiday leftovers into a delicious back-to-school lunch! Create a gourmet-style lunchbox with slices of cheese and sausage paired with crispy crackers for a satisfying and protein-packed main course.
Add a side of fresh snap peas and cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and crunch, providing essential vitamins and fiber.
For a sweet finish, include a piece of chocolate with peanuts, offering a delightful treat that’s both indulgent and nutritious.
This lunch is a great way to repurpose holiday goodies into a balanced and enjoyable meal for your child.
Chicken Quesadilla Lunch with Fresh Sides and a Sweet Treat
Transform leftover BBQ chicken breast into a delicious and filling chicken quesadilla. Pair this warm, cheesy delight with a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Add a side of fresh strawberries and mango for a burst of sweetness and a mix of carrots and cucumber for a refreshing crunch. Include some homemade oat balls for a healthy, energy-boosting snack.
For a little treat, toss in a few Skittles to bring a touch of color and fun to the lunchbox. This balanced meal combines savory, sweet, and nutritious elements, making it a perfect back-to-school lunch.
Leftover Chicken Wings with Blue Cheese Sauce and More
Turn leftovers into a mouthwatering lunch with savory chicken wings accompanied by a side of creamy blue cheese sauce.
Add some leftover sweetcorn for a touch of sweetness and a boost of nutrition. For a crunchy and salty snack, include a pretzel mix.
A container of yogurt offers a creamy, protein-rich option, while fresh strawberries add a burst of juicy sweetness.
For a nutritious and satisfying finish, pack a mix of peanuts and raisins. This lunch is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it both fun and nourishing for your child.
DIY Taco Kit with Fresh Ingredients
Create a fun and interactive lunch with a DIY taco kit made from leftover taco fixings. Pack ground meat, shredded lettuce, cheese, and diced tomatoes separately to keep everything fresh and crisp. Include soft tortillas for easy assembly.
This hands-on meal allows your child to build their own tacos, making lunchtime both exciting and personalized. The combination of protein, veggies, and carbs provides a balanced and satisfying meal that will keep your child fueled and happy throughout the school day.
Chicken Burrito Bowl Leftovers
Turn leftover chicken burrito bowl into a delicious and satisfying lunch. Tender pieces of taco-seasoned chicken thigh are the star, providing a flavorful and protein-rich main.
Pair it with fresh lettuce and sliced carrots for a crunchy, refreshing side. Include some tortilla chips to bring it all together, adding a delightful crunch to the meal.
This combination offers a balanced and tasty lunch that will keep your child energized and satisfied throughout the school day.
Rotini Pasta Salad with Arugula, Tomato, and Black Olives
Prepare a fresh and flavorful lunch with leftover rotini pasta salad mixed with peppery arugula, juicy tomatoes, and savory black olives.
This vibrant salad is both nutritious and delicious, providing a balanced main course. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit to add natural sweetness and essential vitamins to the meal.
This combination offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making lunchtime both enjoyable and nourishing for your child.
Spring Rolls with Fresh Veggies and Fruity Treats
Enjoy a fresh and flavorful lunch with spring rolls as the main dish, offering a light and tasty option. Pair them with crisp cucumber slices and colorful capsicum strips for a crunchy and nutritious side.
Add juicy grapes for a sweet and refreshing touch. Include blackcurrant chia bites for a healthy and fruity treat packed with nutrients. This combination provides a balanced mix of flavors and textures, ensuring a delicious and nourishing lunch for your child.
Warm Non Sandwich Lunch Ideas for Back to School
Sometimes you just need a nice warm lunch in your belly – here are a few of our favorite warm options for back to school lunches!
Warm Noodles and Veggies with Fresh Fruit and Cucumber
Warm up your child’s lunch with a hearty serving of noodles mixed with colorful, nutritious vegetables.
This comforting and satisfying dish is perfect for keeping them energized throughout the school day.
Pair the warm noodles with a side of juicy plums and sweet strawberries for a refreshing and hydrating touch. Add some sliced cucumber for a crisp, crunchy contrast that balances the meal. This combination offers a delightful mix of warm and cool elements, ensuring your child enjoys a nutritious and flavorful lunch.
Warm Ravioli with Rao’s Sauce and Delicious Sides
Treat your child to a comforting and hearty lunch with warm ravioli coated in Rao’s flavorful sauce. This classic Italian dish is sure to be a hit.
Serve it with a side of crispy garlic toast for an added savory crunch. Include a juicy tangerine for a refreshing burst of sweetness and a yogurt drink for a creamy, protein-rich option.
Finish off the meal with some fun jelly treats for a delightful and colorful dessert. This combination offers a balanced and tasty lunch that will keep your child happy and satisfied throughout the school day.
Spicy BBQ Chicken Pizza with Fresh Sides
Spice up lunchtime with a slice of spicy BBQ chicken pizza, packed with bold flavors and topped with tender chicken.
Serve it alongside a piece of warm, crispy garlic bread for a delicious and savory complement. For a fresh and fruity touch, include a mix of juicy grapes and tangy kiwi slices.
Add some crunch with carrot and celery sticks, paired with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. This lunch offers a balanced mix of savory, sweet, and fresh flavors, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable meal for your child.
Butter Garlic Tomato Rice with Spiced Paneer Tawa Toast
Elevate lunchtime with a serving of butter garlic tomato rice, offering rich flavors and a comforting texture. Pair it with spiced paneer tawa toast, providing a delicious and protein-packed accompaniment.
For a healthy and tasty treat, include a slice of sprouted ragi dates cake, which adds a nutritious and sweet element to the meal.
Finish off with a fresh banana for a boost of natural sweetness and essential nutrients. This combination ensures a balanced and flavorful lunch, perfect for keeping your child energized and satisfied throughout the school day.
Wanja Jeon Lunch with Tasty Sides
Create a delightful and balanced lunch featuring Wanja Jeon, delicious meat patties fried with egg. Include some slices of savory Spam for an additional protein boost.
Add rolled egg (계란말이), a fluffy and flavorful Korean-style omelet that pairs perfectly with rice. For a sweet and refreshing touch, pack fresh strawberries.
Include a couple of Oreos for a fun and indulgent treat. This combination offers a mix of savory, sweet, and satisfying elements, making it a nutritious and enjoyable meal for your child.
Fruit Medley with Cookies, Mini Corndog, and Ketchup
Brighten up lunchtime with a vibrant fruit medley featuring strawberries, orange slices, juicy grapes, blackberries, and blueberries.
This colorful mix provides a variety of flavors and essential vitamins, making it both nutritious and appealing. Include a mini corndog for a fun and savory main treat, along with a small container of ketchup for dipping.
Add a couple of cookies for a sweet finish. This combination offers a balanced and delightful lunch that will keep your child happy and energized throughout the school day.
Kimchee Fried Rice with Mandoo and Tasty Sides
Spice up lunchtime with flavorful kimchee fried rice, offering a delicious blend of savory and tangy tastes.
Pair it with mandoo (Korean dumplings) for a satisfying and protein-packed addition. Add some fresh strawberries for a sweet and refreshing touch. Include brownie brittle for a crunchy and indulgent treat, and a handful of Cheez-Its for a savory snack. T
his combination provides a delightful mix of flavors and textures, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable meal for your child.
Rice with Beans and Meat with Tasty Sides
Serve a hearty and nutritious lunch featuring rice with beans and meat, providing a well-rounded main dish packed with protein and fiber.
Add some crackers for a crunchy snack that complements the meal. Include a fresh fruit salad for a burst of natural sweetness and vitamins.
Pack some cheddar cheese slices for a creamy and savory addition. Finish off with mini pancakes for a fun and delightful treat. This combination ensures a balanced and satisfying lunch that will keep your child energized and happy throughout the school day.
Mac and Cheese with Savory Sides and a Sweet Treat
Create a comforting and delicious lunch with creamy mac and cheese as the main dish. Pair it with a side of sweet corn for a nutritious and colorful addition.
Add some chips for a crunchy snack. Include a chocolate cookie for a sweet treat that your child will love.
Finally, pack a few sausages for an extra protein boost. This combination offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures, making it a balanced and enjoyable meal for your child.
Pasta with Lentils, Meat, and Veggies, and Tasty Sides
Enjoy a wholesome and delicious lunch featuring pasta with lentils, meat, and veggies, offering a balanced and nutritious main course.
Pair it with a roll-up for an easy-to-eat and satisfying addition. Add fresh pineapple and golden kiwi fruit for a burst of tropical sweetness. Include a mix of berries for a variety of flavors and essential vitamins. Pack some Pringles for a crunchy and savory snack.
Finish off with coconut chunks for a delightful and healthy treat. This combination ensures a balanced mix of flavors and textures, making lunchtime enjoyable and nourishing for your child.
Hamburger Helper with Texan Toast and Fresh Sides
Serve a hearty and comforting lunch featuring Hamburger Helper, providing a delicious and filling main course. Pair it with Texan toast garlic bread for a savory and crunchy addition.
Add a side of fresh fruit, including juicy grapes and sweet strawberries, for a refreshing touch. Include some crisp cucumber slices for a healthy and hydrating snack.
This combination offers a balanced mix of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable lunch for your child.
Non Sandwich Back to School Lunch Ideas for Picky Eaters
Have a picky eater? Try some of these tried and true ideas!
Mini Waffles with Mango and Grapes
Make lunchtime magical with mini waffles served alongside cubed mango and juicy grapes. These bite-sized waffles are perfect for little hands and offer a comforting, familiar taste.
The vibrant mango cubes and grapes add a refreshing, sweet touch that’s both delicious and nutritious.
To make the meal even more fun, include Frozen character picks, adding an element of excitement to lunchtime. This delightful combination of flavors and playful elements ensures a nutritious and enjoyable meal for your child.
Cheddar and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups with Fresh Fruits and Veggies
Create a tasty and fun lunch with cheddar and cream cheese roll-ups. These easy-to-eat, creamy, and cheesy delights make for a satisfying main course.
Pair them with a juicy orange and a mix of berries for a refreshing and vitamin-rich treat. Add some fresh broccoli and cucumber slices for a crunchy, nutritious side.
For a bit of fun, include a handful of Goldfish crackers and mini oreos to complete the meal. This combination offers a balanced and colorful lunch that will keep your child happy and nourished throughout the school day.
Pizza Twists with Fresh Fruit
Make lunchtime a treat with savory pizza twists, combining the delicious flavors of pizza in a fun, easy-to-eat form.
These twists are perfect for little hands and offer a tasty main course. Pair them with a selection of fresh fruits: a juicy orange, a crisp apple, and sweet grapes.
This combination not only adds natural sweetness and hydration to the meal but also ensures a balanced and nutritious lunch. The variety of flavors and textures will keep your child engaged and satisfied throughout the school day.
Sun Chips with Hummus, Fresh Salsa, and Veggies
Create a delightful and nutritious lunch with a combination of Sun Chips and creamy hummus. This pairing offers a satisfying crunch and a protein-packed dip.
Add a side of fresh salsa for a zesty, flavorful option that complements the chips and hummus perfectly.
Include raw broccoli florets and sliced carrots for a healthy, crunchy addition. This lunch is not only delicious but also provides a great balance of flavors and nutrients, making it an enjoyable and wholesome meal for your child.
Chocolate Protein Cereal with Dried Raspberries and More
Make lunchtime both nutritious and fun with chocolate protein cereal paired with dried raspberries. Add a small container of organic milk for a complete, protein-rich meal that your child will love. Include hand-cooked potato chips for a satisfying, crunchy treat.
To balance the meal, add a mix of fresh berries like strawberries and blueberries, offering natural sweetness and essential vitamins. This combination provides a delightful mix of flavors and textures, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable lunch for your child.
Pig in a Blanket with Fresh Fruit and Snacks
Delight your child with a classic pig in a blanket as the main course of their lunch.
This tasty treat combines a savory sausage wrapped in a soft, golden blanket, perfect for little hands to enjoy. Pair it with a juicy orange and a crisp apple for a refreshing, vitamin-rich side.
Add a handful of almonds for a protein boost and some crunchy crackers to complete the meal. This lunch offers a balanced mix of flavors and textures, making it both satisfying and nutritious for your child.
Dino Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies and Sweet Treats
Make lunchtime fun and nutritious with a whimsical dino pasta salad. This playful and tasty dish is perfect for sparking your child’s imagination while providing a satisfying meal.
Pair the pasta salad with fresh carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and celery for a crunchy and nutritious side. Add a juicy plum and orange segments for a sweet, vitamin-packed treat.
Finish off the meal with sweet banana balls for a delightful and healthy dessert. This combination offers a balanced mix of flavors and textures, ensuring an enjoyable and wholesome lunch for your child.
Jatz with French Onion Dip and Tasty Sides
Create a delightful lunch with Jatz crackers paired with creamy French onion dip, perfect for a savory and satisfying main snack.
Add a chocolate coconut slice for a sweet and indulgent treat.
Pack some fresh grapes and a crisp apple to provide natural sweetness and essential vitamins. For an extra treat, include a chocolate thickshake bar.
To complete the meal, add a lemon cream yogurt squeezy snacker pouch, offering a tangy and creamy finish. This lunch is a wonderful mix of flavors and textures, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable meal for your child.
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Cream Cheese and Vienna Bread Roll-Ups with Fresh Fruit and Nuts
For a picky eater, simplicity and familiar flavors are key.
Try cream cheese and Vienna bread roll-ups, which are easy to eat and deliciously creamy. Pair these with a crisp apple and a handful of peanuts for a crunchy, protein-packed snack. Add some fresh pineapple chunks and a juicy plum for a burst of natural sweetness.
This balanced lunch offers a variety of textures and flavors that are both nutritious and appealing, ensuring your child enjoys their meal.
Cocktail Frankfurts with Tomato Sauce and Tasty Sides
Treat your child to a fun and flavorful lunch featuring cocktail frankfurts with a side of tomato sauce for dipping. Add a crisp apple and juicy grapes for a refreshing and healthy touch. Include some sea salt mini brown rice cakes for a crunchy and nutritious snack.
For a sweet treat, pack some chocolate chip cookies. Complete the meal with mini Pringles sour cream and onion chips for a savory finish. This combination offers a balanced mix of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable lunch for your child.
Bagel Chips with Cream Cheese and Tasty Sides
Create a delightful and balanced lunch featuring bagel chips paired with creamy, rich cream cheese. Add crispy bacon for a savory and protein-packed addition.
For a sweet and refreshing touch, include cotton candy grapes and fresh strawberries.
Finish off the meal with a few Junior Mints for a minty, chocolaty treat. This combination offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures, ensuring a fun and enjoyable lunch for your child.
Salt & Balsamic Vinegar Rice Cakes with Tasty Sides
Pack a flavorful and crunchy lunch featuring salt & balsamic vinegar rice cakes, offering a unique and tasty snack. Pair them with juicy grapes and a crisp apple for a refreshing and healthy touch. Add a chocolate chip cookie for a sweet treat.
Include a small portion of Froot Loops for a fun and colorful addition. Finally, pack some cheddar shapes for a savory and cheesy snack. This combination provides a delightful mix of flavors and textures, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable lunch for your child.
Related Post: How to Introduce New Foods to Your Picky Toddler
Our Favorite Back-to-School Lunchtime Essentials
Packing a well-rounded and appealing lunch requires a few key essentials that make the process easier and more efficient. Here are some of our top picks:
- Reusable Lunch Containers: Invest in a set of durable, compartmentalized lunch containers. They keep different foods separate and fresh, making it easy to pack a variety of items without worrying about mixing flavors or textures.
- Insulated Thermos: Perfect for keeping warm foods like soups, pastas, and leftovers hot until lunchtime. An insulated thermos ensures your child enjoys their meal as it was intended—warm and comforting.
- Lunchbox with Thermos: Or switch things up and try a lunchbox with an insulated thermos built right in!
- Silicone Baking Cups: These versatile little cups are great for dividing snacks and small portions within a larger container. They add a pop of color and make it easy to organize fruits, veggies, and treats.
- Reusable Snack Bags: Eco-friendly and convenient, reusable snack bags are perfect for packing chips, crackers, and other dry snacks. They’re easy to clean and can be used over and over again.
- Cute Lunch Notes: Adding a small, encouraging note or a fun joke can brighten your child’s day and make lunchtime a bit more special. It’s a simple touch that shows you care and keeps them smiling.
These essentials not only make packing lunches easier but also help keep food fresh and appealing, ensuring your child looks forward to their midday meal.
Revamping your child’s lunch routine with creative non-sandwich ideas can transform their back-to-school experience.
By exploring a variety of nutritious and exciting options, you can ensure they receive balanced meals that keep them energized and focused throughout the day.
