Having kids is not an easy task. They are always hungry and you have to make sure that they are eating as healthy as possible. This can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to lunchtime. Kids are known as picky eaters so it is important to find recipes that they will love. As a rule of thumb, try to keep the recipes easy and affordable. You don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen when you could be playing with your children and getting them ready for their next nap. Also, try to make sure that your children will love the foods you are preparing. Fish tacos and turkey wraps are always a safe bet, but you can get creative with the recipes if you want. Healthier meals will help your children to stay energized and focused throughout the day.
Without further ado, we have put together a list of five easy and affordable lunch recipes your kids will love, so keep reading and get ready for cooking!
- Homemade Burgers
The symbol of American cuisine, the burger, is one of the easiest meals to make for your child. But why are burgers so popular? They are tasty, affordable, and easy to customize. Plus, you can make them with ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Even though the process of making a burger is simple, there are a few tips you can follow to make sure that they turn out perfect. Start by mixing the ground meat with some diced onion, salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices your child enjoys. Then, form the mixture into patties and cook in a pan over medium heat until they are browned all the way through. Serve on a bun with some lettuce, tomatoes, and your child’s favorite condiments. For a different twist, you can also try making turkey or chicken burgers with some BBQ sauce on them.
Or if you’d like to treat yourself and your child to a delicious burger, then you can dine outside, try Smokehouse Burger for $12 and check out why this popular American meal is considered one of the best burgers so far. Smokehouse Burger includes two beef patties, smoked bacon, cheese, and sauce. By trying burgers prepared by professionals, you can get some inspiration for making your burgers at home and save some money while doing so.
- Fish Tacos
One of the most popular meals in the United States, fish tacos are a great way to introduce your kids to seafood. You can find many different recipes for fish tacos online, but we recommend using cod or tilapia. Simply season the fish with some salt, pepper, and cumin and cook in a pan until it is flaky. Serve the fish in a warm tortilla wrap with some shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. Not only will your kids enjoy the taste of these tacos, but they are also getting a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Also, you wouldn’t spend a lot of money on this meal, so it is perfect for those on a budget.
- Turkey Wraps
If your child is not a seafood fan, then try preparing some turkey wraps for lunch, because they’ll love them! This is a very versatile meal that can include many different ingredients depending on your child’s taste. We recommend using roasted turkey, avocado, and cheese as the main ingredients. Start by cooking some sliced turkey in a pan until it is browned. Then, spread some avocado on a warm tortilla wrap and top with the cooked turkey and shredded cheese, and that’s it. However, you can also add in some diced tomatoes, or any other vegetable your child enjoys. Wraps are a great way to pack a lot of nutrients into one meal, and your child will love the taste of it. While at the same time, turkey or chicken is a great source of protein and can help keep your child feeling full until dinner time. In a combination with avocado that is full of healthy fats and some vegetables, you can be sure that this meal is perfect for a healthy lunch.
- Homemade Pizza
Who doesn’t love pizza? This classic Italian dish can be made at home very easily and your child will adore it. But have you ever thought of making a pizza that is specifically for kids? This can be a great way to get your child to eat some vegetables that they may not normally eat. Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spreading some tomato sauce on a pizza crust. Then, top the sauce with some shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and any other of your child’s favorite vegetables. You can get creative with the ingredients, but we recommend using broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms. Bake the pizza in the oven for about 15-20 minutes and you will have a delicious and healthy lunch for your child.
However, if you’d like to make a pizza with some meat on it, then besides some shredded mozzarella cheese and any other toppings your child enjoys you can add sausage or bacon. Bake in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and that’s it. Your child will love the taste of a homemade pizza, and you can be sure that they are getting some good nutrients from all of the ingredients on it.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich
This childhood favorite is perfect for a quick and easy lunch. It’s delicious and affordable, and everybody loves it. In addition, grilled cheese sandwiches can be made with different types of bread, spreads, and cheeses to create endless variations. The process is fairly simple. Start by spreading some butter on a slice of bread, and then place another slice on top. Grill the sandwich in a pan on medium heat until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Serve with a side of tomatoes, fruit, or some carrot sticks. You can also try a different variation of this sandwich by using cheddar cheese and ham instead of American cheese, the possibilities are endless!
Final words
If you run out of ideas for what to make for your child’s lunch, then don’t worry. These 5 easy and affordable recipes will get you started. And if you are ever stumped for ideas, remember that you can always find inspiration online or from your local restaurant. So get cooking and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal with your child. These moments are what childhood memories are made of, and don’t let meal planning get in the way of that. Good luck! 🙂