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33 Lunches Your Kids Will Brag About At School

Packing lunch doesn’t have to feel like a battle of wills. With 33 lunches your kids will brag about at school, forget boring sandwiches and untouched apples. This lineup brings fun, flavor, and variety into the lunchbox. Whether it’s creative spins on classics or totally unexpected combos, these lunches will turn your kid into the cafeteria trendsetter. Bonus: you might even get fewer complaints about “weird smells” or “boring snacks” when the lunchbox comes back empty.

A Pastrami Reuben sandwich on a plate with chips and pickles.
Pastrami Reuben Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Classic and crowd-pleasing, Old Fashioned Ham Salad proves that simple recipes can still steal the spotlight. Packed with rich flavors and a creamy texture, it makes for an unforgettable lunch. Perfect for sandwiches or crackers, it offers versatility that stands out. Kids will love how it sets their lunch apart from the crowd. A little retro flair never hurt anyone, especially when it tastes this good.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Packed with bold flavors and a fun mix of textures, Mexican Street Corn Salad is a lunchtime game changer. It’s the perfect way to bring a little excitement to your kid’s lunch break. Every bite offers something fresh, zesty, and fun to talk about. The presentation alone makes it share-worthy in the best way. This salad ensures your child’s lunch will be remembered for all the right reasons.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Seafood Chowder

Seafood chowder with a sprig of dill, a delicious stew recipe.
Seafood Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Rich and comforting, this Seafood Chowder packs everything kids love in a warm, hearty lunch. Each spoonful is a blend of texture and flavor that’s perfect for sharing lunchroom stories. With its unique twist on soup classics, it’s sure to stand out. This dish delivers a filling meal with just the right touch of elegance to impress. Bring on the lunchroom envy as your child enjoys every bite with pride.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Chowder

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

A plate with Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes.
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

A fresh and unexpected twist, Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes pairs smoky and sweet for a lunch that’s anything but ordinary. This salad is proof that simple ingredients can create bold statements. Its combination of textures makes it a stand-out lunchbox option. Kids will be talking about how cool this salad looks and tastes. It’s a conversation starter and a guaranteed way to bring some flair to any school lunch table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Heartwarming and full of flavor, Pasta e Fagioli Soup is the kind of meal that gets kids excited about soup. It’s a satisfying bowl of goodness that balances comfort with fun in every bite. Ideal for cooler days, it keeps lunchtime interesting and cozy. With a recipe this good, trading lunch is officially off the table. Who knew soup could be the ultimate lunchtime brag?
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

A black bowl filled with tabbouleh salad with smoked tomatoes.
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Light and flavorful, Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes brings a sophisticated twist to lunchtime. The balance of fresh herbs and smoky goodness makes every bite memorable. It’s the kind of dish that looks as good as it tastes, turning heads in the cafeteria. This salad is an easy way to introduce something new without going overboard. Kids will love sharing this cool and unique option with friends.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Two bowls of creamy chicken & wild rice soup on a wooden table.
Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm and velvety, Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup makes school lunches feel like a mini escape to comfort town. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for cooler days when soup hits just right. Kids love how every spoonful feels rich and cozy without being too heavy. This one is bound to earn some lunchtime applause and maybe a recipe request or two. Who says soup can’t be the star of the lunchroom?
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwich served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Fun to eat and full of flavor, Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches make lunchtime anything but boring. The meatballs bring just the right amount of flavor, while the pita wraps it all up in a neat, easy-to-handle package. It’s the perfect grab-and-go meal that’s great for kids on the move. No need to worry about it getting soggy or bland—this sandwich stays fresh and delicious until the very last bite.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Horiatiki Salad

Horiatiki Salad with feta cheese on top served on a plate.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bursting with Mediterranean charm, Horiatiki Salad is a simple yet impactful addition to any lunchbox. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. This salad keeps things light while still being incredibly satisfying. A timeless option that adds a little vacation vibe to the lunchroom. It’s one of those dishes that everyone wishes they’d thought to pack first.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese

A close-up of a sliced Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese on a plate.
Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A modern twist on a classic, Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese combines savory and sweet in every bite. The toasty, melty texture is perfect for a warm, satisfying lunch. Kids will love the unique pairing that stands out from the usual sandwich lineup. It’s a guaranteed hit for picky eaters and food adventurers alike. Get ready for it to become a lunchtime legend among classmates.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Grilled Cheese

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Crisp, fresh, and a little salty, Cucumber Salad with Feta makes the perfect side dish to any lunch. It’s simple, but its flavors are strong enough to stand on their own. Easy to prepare and even easier to eat, this salad offers a refreshing option for kids. It’s a lunchbox winner that’s cool, light, and perfect for breaking away from heavier meals.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Bowl

A plate of Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl.
The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

With The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Bowl, you’re bringing all the taco bowl flavor without the drive-thru wait. This meal offers a satisfying balance of fresh veggies and savory goodness, wrapped up in one simple bowl. It’s a school lunch that’s packed with variety and flair, all while keeping things straightforward. Your kid’s friends will be asking for a bite—and the recipe.
Get the Recipe: The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Bowl

Pizza Pasta Salad

A fork with pizza pasta salad in a bowl.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Combining the best of pizza and pasta, Pizza Pasta Salad is a fun, no-fuss lunch that gets everyone talking. The flavors kids know and love are mixed into a pasta salad that’s both filling and easy to eat. It’s a great way to keep lunchtime exciting without adding too much complexity. Plus, it’s so tasty, your kid might not even want to share with their friends.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

A bowl of salmon pasta salad with a creamy dressing, garnished with a sprig of dill.
Easy Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Wholesome and satisfying, Easy Salmon Pasta Salad is perfect for kids who want something a little different. The combination of pasta and salmon brings a filling, balanced meal that’s perfect for lunchtime. It’s quick to prepare and even quicker to get finished. Kids will love having something that feels both fancy and simple, making them the talk of the lunchroom.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup

Two bowls of Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup were placed on a marble surface next to two spoons.
Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

This Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup brings comfort to the table with every spoonful. Thick, creamy, and full of flavor, it’s sure to fill your kid up without the fuss. Perfect for a chilly school day, it keeps the lunchtime routine from feeling too predictable. The best part? This soup is hearty enough to be a stand-alone meal, making it a no-brainer for school lunch.
Get the Recipe: Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Vibrant and flavorful, Pesto Orzo Salad turns any lunch break into something special. Packed with the rich taste of pesto and the perfect bite-sized orzo, it’s easy to eat and full of flavor. This salad is a great way to break away from the same-old lunch routine while keeping things light. Kids will love the fun, fresh taste and how easy it is to share with friends.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Texas BLT

Texas BLT on a black slate plate.
Texas BLT. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Taking a classic to the next level, Texas BLT brings big flavors that make lunchtime feel extra special. The smoky, crispy elements turn this sandwich into something everyone will want a bite of. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that stays simple while packing a punch. This isn’t your typical BLT—it’s got some serious flavor to back up that lunchtime brag.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Close-up shot of Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad on a white plate.
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Fresh, healthy, and full of flavor, Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad is the perfect way to brighten up any lunch. The grilled asparagus adds a smoky twist to the traditional potato salad, making it an exciting alternative to the norm. Kids will love the balance of tender potatoes and crisp veggies, making it feel both indulgent and nutritious. This one is all about turning an everyday salad into something more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

An image of Tex-Mex Caesar Salad on a square plate.
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining two crowd favorites, Tex-Mex Caesar Salad is a lunchtime fusion that’s impossible to forget. It mixes the crunch of Caesar with a twist of Tex-Mex, making each bite feel new and fun. This salad doesn’t just sit on the plate—it grabs attention with bold flavors and unique textures. Kids will love how different it is from the typical salad, making it a hit both for taste and presentation.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Crunchy, flavorful, and full of variety, Chinese Chicken Salad is the perfect lunch for kids who crave something different. The mix of textures makes it fun to eat, and the flavors balance perfectly. Whether eaten as a salad or wrapped up in a roll, it’s sure to impress. Kids will love having something exciting and out of the ordinary while still feeling light and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

A bowl of yellow bean and potato salad.
Yellow Bean & Potato Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simple, but with a kick, Yellow Bean & Potato Salad makes for a filling lunch that’s easy to pack and hard to forget. It’s the kind of dish that offers comfort without feeling heavy. Kids will love the satisfying combination that leaves them full and ready for the rest of the school day. It’s a no-fuss, reliable choice that adds a little variety to lunch without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

A plate of Mediterranean Couscous Salad With Smoked Tomatoes topped with parsley.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For a twist on the classic, Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes brings flavor and freshness in every bite. The couscous is a perfect base, while the smoky tomatoes add depth and intrigue. Kids will love how unique this salad is compared to their usual lunch options. It’s the kind of meal that sticks with you, making the lunch table a little more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak on a black slate plate.
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich packs all the flavor of a classic cheesesteak into a school-friendly version. Kids will love the hearty filling and cheesy goodness in each bite. It’s a portable, mess-free way to enjoy a Philly classic without having to leave the cafeteria. This sandwich will definitely be the talk of the lunchroom—everyone will be asking where it came from.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

It’s the type of salad that makes lunchtime feel a little more special without being too much work. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp brings a touch of coastal flavor to any lunch break. The orzo adds the perfect amount of texture, while the shrimp keeps it light yet filling. Kids will love how it’s both fancy and easy to eat, making it a standout in the lunchroom.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Two pieces of Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos served on a black slate plate.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A simple, but delicious, way to bring something different to the lunch table. Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos are a fun, flavorful way to shake up the school lunch routine. These tacos offer a mix of bold, savory flavors and fresh ingredients that make them a fan favorite. Whether it’s for the crunch or the taste, these tacos will have kids excited for their next lunch.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Curried chicken salad in a blue bowl.
Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Full of flavor and just the right amount of sweetness, Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins is a unique twist on the classic chicken salad. Its blend of savory and sweet keeps things exciting without being overwhelming. This dish offers a filling and flavorful lunch that kids will actually look forward to. Expect this salad to be one of the most talked-about items in the lunchroom.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

A close-up of a hand holding a copycat Taco Bell Cantina chicken burrito.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Enjoy all the flavor of a Taco Bell favorite in this Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. It’s packed with bold ingredients that make lunchtime feel special without any of the hassle. This burrito offers a great balance of flavors, from savory to a little spicy, all wrapped up in a neat, convenient package. Kids will love how their lunch feels like something they’d get at a restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Mediterranean Chopped Salad with crumbled feta cheese, on a yellow plate with flower designs.
Mediterranean Chopped Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Packed with Mediterranean flavors, Mediterranean Chopped Salad is both simple and satisfying. It’s a great way to bring fresh ingredients into the lunchbox in a way that’s easy to eat and hard to forget. The blend of vegetables and light seasoning makes this salad a go-to when you want something filling without being heavy. Kids will love how fresh and crunchy it feels, making it a perfect lunchtime option.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Double halves of Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak on a slate plate.
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Packed with flavor and the perfect amount of cheesy goodness, Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak will have your kid looking forward to lunchtime. This meal takes the best parts of a Philly cheesesteak and makes them easier to pack and eat. Whether it’s for a sandwich or a wrap, it delivers a hearty meal that’s satisfying and fun. School lunches just got a whole lot tastier.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Spring salad with asparagus and potatoes on a white plate.
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bright and fresh, Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes is the perfect way to usher in the season with flavor. This salad combines fresh, light ingredients in a way that keeps things interesting without being overwhelming. Kids will enjoy how refreshing it tastes, with the right mix of textures to keep every bite fun. It’s the kind of salad that makes lunchtime feel fresh and new.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

A horizontal image of Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna and Tomatoes.
Wheat Berry Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

With the tuna giving it an extra boost of protein, it’s a great option that keeps your kid fueled for the rest of the day. Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes is the perfect combination of light and filling. The wheat berries add texture, while the tuna makes this salad hearty and satisfying. It’s an easy, no-fuss lunch that’s full of flavor and keeps things fresh.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Retro Horiatiki Salad

A black bowl contains a Horiatiki salad with blocks of feta cheese, garnished with herbs.
Retro Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Giving a playful nod to tradition, Retro Horiatiki Salad is a fresh take on an old favorite. This salad delivers bright flavors with a fun, nostalgic twist that stands out. It’s an ideal pick for kids who like their lunch with a little flair. Easy to eat and hard to forget, it’s the kind of meal that gets talked about. Perfect for packing something special without overthinking it.
Get the Recipe: Retro Horiatiki Salad

Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

A Pastrami Reuben sandwich on a plate with chips and pickles.
Pastrami Reuben Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A fun take on the classic Reuben, Pastrami Reuben Sandwich combines the perfect mix of flavors that kids love. It’s hearty, satisfying, and easy to pack for lunch without making a mess. This sandwich brings the perfect balance of savory and salty to the table, turning the typical lunch into something special. It’s a guaranteed hit that will make your kid’s lunch stand out from the rest.
Get the Recipe: Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

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