Discover simple and delightful dinner ideas for back to school that will ease your evenings! Explore fast recipes, meals suitable for kids, and nutritious choices perfect for the entire family, making your dinner prep stress-free.
We’ve rounded up a variety of recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household. From comforting classics with a twist to fresh and healthy options that’ll fuel your little learners, these meals are designed to make your weeknights a breeze. Plus, many of these dishes are perfect for getting the kids involved in the cooking process, teaching them valuable skills and fostering a love for homemade food.
- Keep pantry staples on hand for quick meals. Things like canned beans, frozen veggies, and whole grains are lifesavers.
- Get the kids involved. Kids who help cook are more likely to eat what’s served.
- Theme nights make planning easier. Taco Tuesday, Pasta Thursday, etc.
Back To School Dinner Ideas
#15. One Pot Cheesy Taco Zucchini Noodle Skillet
#14. Best Tuna Melt Casserole
#13. Spicy Cilantro Baked Salmon
#12. Easy Baked Cod Recipe with Pistachio Cilantro Pesto
#11. Spiced Rubbed Cedar Plank Salmon with Strawberry Salsa
#10. Tuna Cakes Italian Style with Just Four Ingredients!
#9. Fettucine with Salmon and Tomatoes
#8. Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with Lemon Sauce Recipe
#7. Baked Tortiglione with Three Cheese Vine Tomatoes and Herbs
#6. Extra Cheesy Lemon Asparagus Pasta Skillet
#5. Egg in a Basket
#4. Quick and Easy Ravioli and Spinach Lasagna
#3. Quinoa Quiche
#2. Pesto Alfredo Tortellini
#1. One Pot Vegetarian Chili Mac
What are some healthy make-ahead meals I can prep?
Lasagna, baked ziti, stuffed peppers, breakfast burritos, and chili are all great make-ahead options that are freezer-friendly. Also batch cook staples like quinoa, rice, and shredded chicken.
I work late – how can I get dinner on the table quickly?
Use a slow cooker or Instant Pot for hands-off meals. Prep ingredients the night before for dishes you can quickly cook when you get home. Keep it simple with tacos, stir-fries, and one-pan/sheet-pan meals.
We have sports/activities right after school – what are some portable dinner ideas?
Trail mixes, energy bites, wraps, fresh fruit, veggies and hummus, hard cooked eggs, and sandwiches/panini all travel well. Use a thermos for hot items like soups, stews, and pasta dishes.
What kitchen tools will help me save time?
A food processor, immersion blender, slow cooker/Instant pot, good chef’s knife, sheet pans, and a quality peeler can all help streamline prep work.
