Quick ideas for busy family weeks
A short list of easy recipes for school lunches, busy weeknights, and game days.
Lunches you can pack ahead for the school week.
Make aheadRanch cream cheese and a handful of crisp vegetables rolled into tortillas, then sliced into pinwheels.
From MyPlate Kitchen (USDA)
Kid-friendly: Kids can spread the cream cheese and sprinkle on the vegetables. An adult slices the rolls.
1 hr 20 minTurkey and Muenster pinwheels with a creamy balsamic drizzle, packed beside a small mozzarella and tomato salad.
From Allrecipes
Kid-friendly: Kids can layer the tortilla and fill the box compartments. An adult slices the roll.
26 minPesto pasta with a light yogurt dressing, mixed vegetables, and whatever cooked protein you have on hand.
From BBC Good Food
Kid-friendly: Kids can stir in the vegetables and pick their own topping. Packs well cold.
Weeknight meals from start to table in about 20 minutes.
20 minA three-ingredient pantry dinner: instant rice, canned chicken, and cream of chicken soup warmed together in one pot.
From Allrecipes
Kid-friendly: Mild and creamy. Kids can open the cans with help and do the stirring.
25 minSeasoned beef and brown rice baked on open-face tortillas with mozzarella, then topped at the table.
From Food Network
Kid-friendly: Set out the toppings and let everyone build their own plate.
20 minChicken breast strips in a seasoned saltine coating, fried until golden.
From Taste of Home
Kid-friendly: Kids can crush the crackers and help with the breading. Frying is an adult job.
Easy food for a house full of fans.
30 minHawaiian rolls with honey mustard, deli ham, a quick white sauce, and Gruyère, baked until melty.
From Southern Living
Kid-friendly: Kids can spread the honey mustard and lay out the ham.
30 minA warm cheese and bacon dip with tomatoes and pickled jalapeños, under a crunchy chip topping.
From Southern Living
Kid-friendly: Spicy as written. For younger kids, cut back the jalapeños and use plain kettle chips.
15 minThe Southern spread with two sharp Cheddars, for crackers, celery, or sandwiches. No cooking.
From Southern Living
Kid-friendly: No stove needed. Kids can stir it together. The cayenne adds a little heat, so leave it out if needed.