Easy School Lunches

4 Ways to refresh your routine

Packing school lunches can be a little cringe-worthy, especially if you're getting back into the routine after a long break. It takes a minute to start buying the foods your kids like and setting aside the right amount of morning to put it all together. And even when or if you get your routine down, it's easy to get stuck in the same-old tired PB&J rut.

These four recipes for kids will help you get back on the lunch box track and keep the rotation fresh, even during the busiest seasons. From tasty sandwiches to kitchen-tested treats, we have some crafty ways to liven up the lunch packing portion of your day without subtracting too much time from your already-full schedule. For extra credit, we’ve even included ways to work veggies into each option without too much fuss. Stick with us and you’ll go from packing panicked to simply stressless in no time!

Air Fryer Grilled Cheese and Ham Crescent Pockets

Here’s one for even the pickiest of eaters. With the irresistible combination of ham and cheese inside a Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Roll, all melty from the air fryer, what’s not to love?! Now, we know that you may be saying, “Air fryer? In the morning?” And we say, “YES!”

With just three simple ingredients, you can put this yumminess together in minutes. Air fry for eight to ten minutes more (no preheating needed) and then gather the rest of your lunchbox items. By the time the crescent pockets are done, you’ll be set to go. Just let ‘em cool or wrap them in tin foil and send them on their way.

Quick Veggie Tip: This crescent pocket is a lot like a little calzone, so feel free to treat it like one! Before air frying, add fresh toppings like green peppers, mushrooms, spinach, etc. (Sub pepperoni for the ham and you’re one step closer to calzone-ness!)

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Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Crescent Sandwiches

Made with Pillsbury™ Crescent Rolls and cooked chopped chicken, this recipe is an easy back-to-school meal and a great way to add protein for all-day energy, without expending a ton of your energy. Save on stress by preparing the chicken salad ahead of time and refrigerating it until you’re ready to assemble. Plus, the chopped apples are a great way to add a little extra fruit on the sly.

Quick Veggie Tip: Pack your sammies with a serving of carrots, broccoli or cauliflower florets, or sliced bell peppers. Throw in a side of hummus or spinach dip and you’ll be good to go!

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Turkey-BLT Tortilla Wraps

This fresh and fabulous sandwich wrap comes together super quick with pre-cooked bacon and cream cheese. You can even skip the bacon entirely and still have a great-tasting lunch option. The recipe calls for flour tortillas but you could easily swap for spinach, whole wheat or any other preferred option. Want to get ahead of the game? Prep your wraps and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead of packing time.

Quick Veggie Tip: This lunch lends itself to all sorts of add-ons and options — baby spinach, cucumber, shredded carrot, dare we even suggest broccoli? See what sneakiness you can get away with!

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Make-Ahead Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

While this recipe moonlights as a quick dinner dish, it’s also a delightfully surprising lunch box option. Plus, “make-ahead” is in the title, so you know you can prepare and put it in the fridge until you’re ready to dish out and pack. This pasta comes together in less than 30 minutes and is packed with family-friendly flavors your kids will love.

Did we also mention how versatile it is? You can use whatever pasta is in your panty and it can be enjoyed hot or cold. (Psst! It makes a great freezer meal, too!)

Quick Veggie Tip: Add baby spinach or sauteed mushrooms (if you dare) to the mix. Though chicken isn’t a veggie, it also makes a great add-in.

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Kitchen Tested Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Dough Brownies

After making it through the week, everyone deserves a decadent dessert. A spin on the traditional “brookie,’” these little pieces of perfection are made with Reese’s™ Peanut Butter Cups, Pillsbury™ chocolate chip cookie dough and brownie mix. Need we say more? This is one lunchbox surprise surprise that will be the envy of the entire school lunch table. (We won’t tell anybody how easy they are to make.)

Did we also mention how versatile it is? You can use whatever pasta is in your panty and it can be enjoyed hot or cold. (Psst! It makes a great freezer meal, too!)

Quick Veggie Tip: Not this time! But you CAN swap out the peanut butter cups for your favorite sandwich cookies, if you like.

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