After the longest summer break in recorded history, it’s finally time to get back into a school routine. If you need some lunchbox inspiration here are a few ideas to break the tired PB&J cycle. These ideas work for in-person or virtual students. Happy back-to-school, Little Rock families! 

Five Creative Ways to Fill Their Lunchbox (and Tummies) 

1. Bella’s Kitchen Lunch Box Menu

Sometimes the best meals are the ones you don’t have to prepare yourself. Bella’s Kitchen, a meal delivery service for kids and families, just debuted a new lunchbox menu. Check out their options for a variety of fruit, veggies mains, cheese, meat and more. Order now! 

2. Mini Taco Hand Pies 

This one gets points just for being cute! These mini taco hand pies also made this list for great flavor, filling protein and make-ahead-ability (totally a word). Round out the meal with guacamole or salsa and fruit. 

Via Lemons for Lulu 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 box refrigerated pie dough (14.1 oz)

  • 3/4 lb ground beef

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 3/4 teaspoon chili powder

  • 3/4 teaspoon paprika

  • 3/4 teaspoon onion powder

  • 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 3/4 teaspoon cumin

  • 1/2 cup black beans

  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 egg, lightly beaten

  • 1/2 teaspoon water

For the full recipe, click here. 

3. Lunchbox Pizza 

This one comes together in minutes and your kids can put on the final touches themselves. 

Via foodfolksandfun.net

Ingredients: 

  • 1 plain flat bread

  • 3 tablespoons pizza sauce

  • 3 tablespoons shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 5-10 pepperonis

For the full recipe, click here. 

4. Ham and Cheese Lunchbox Muffins

Via ishouldbemoppingthefloor.net

This is another make-ahead option that should make your kids excited to pop open their lunchbox. 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 cups prepared Horizon Classic Mac (fresh works best...after it is well cooled)

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

  • 1 cup diced ham

  • 1/4 cup bread crumbs + 2 tablespoons

For the full recipe, click here. 

5. Mini Pancake Kabobs 

Brinner is a favorite around my house, so mini pancakes for lunch would be a slam dunk. I also love how easy it is to add fruit to the mix. 

Via iheartnaptime.net

Ingredients:

  • Favorite pancake recipe or Hungry Jack

  • Nut butter

  • Syrup (for the brave at heart)

  • Bananas, strawberries, blueberries or your favorite fruit

For the full recipe, click here. 

Other ideas: 

  • Roll Ups: You can go sweet or savory with this one. Fill a tortilla with your kid’s favorite deli meat and cheese or go for a nut butter with strawberries or bananas. 

  • Quesadillas: You have options for this one, too! You can go traditional with fiesta blend cheese or try Italian with mozzarella, sauce and pepperonis. 

  • Pita Pocket: Fill your pita pocket with deli meat, hummus or salad. 

  • Sandwich Kabobs: Deconstruct a traditional sandwich on a stick or pretzel for a fun spin on a lunch classic.

Lunch Staples:

Stock your pantry with healthy grab-and-go favorites for snack-based lunches that come together in a snap. 

  • Yogurt tubes 

    • Pro-tip: freeze your tubes so they are the perfect temperature by lunch time. 

  • Fresh fruit: berries, apples, bananas, oranges, grapes

  • Healthy dips: hummus, guacamole and salsa

  • Fresh veggies: carrots, cucumbers, celery, cherry tomatoes  

  • Cheese sticks or cubes 

  • Applesauce 

  • Energy bites — here are our favorites.