20 Simple Fall Kid Lunch Ideas Your Little Ones Will Love

As the crisp autumn air sets in and the leaves begin to change, it’s the perfect time to switch up those lunchtime routines for your little ones. Whether they’re off to school or enjoying a cozy day at home, these 20 simple fall kid lunch ideas will keep them satisfied and full of energy. Each recipe is easy to prepare, full of seasonal flavors, and sure to be a hit with your kids.

Pumpkin Quesadillas

Start with whole wheat tortillas and fill them with a mix of pumpkin puree and shredded cheese. Cook until golden brown and serve with a side of salsa or guacamole. You can also get a little more sophisticated with this rendition from 24CarrotKitchen.

2. Apple and Cheddar Sandwiches

Start with whole grain bread, add thin apple slices and a slice of sharp cheddar for a sweet and savory combination.

Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese

Give traditional mac & cheese a fall twist by adding pureed butternut squash to the cheese sauce. The extra veggies will boost the nutrition without sacrificing taste.

Turkey and Cranberry Wraps

Use a whole wheat wrap and layer with sliced turkey, cranberry sauce, and a bit of cream cheese. Roll it up for a quick and tasty lunch.

Mini Harvest Pizzas

Top whole wheat English muffins with marinara, shredded mozzarella, and your kid’s favorite fall veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted butternut squash. You can also swap out the English muffins for Naan bread like Love & Lemons did and let your kids pick their own toppings.

Veggie-Packed Chili

Whip up a simple chili with ground turkey, beans, tomatoes, and as many veggies as you think your child will tolerate. Send it in a thermos to keep it warm until lunchtime.

Need a little inspiration? This recipe from HannahMageeRD.com looks delicious! It has A LOT of veggies though, so feel free to adjust to your child’s veggie tolerance.

Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats

Mix oats with milk or yogurt, add diced apples, cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Let it sit overnight and pack it in a container for a ready-to-go meal.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Roast diced sweet potatoes, add black beans, and sprinkle with cheese. Serve in small corn tortillas for a nutrient-packed lunch.

Pumpkin Hummus and Veggie Sticks

Blend chickpeas, pumpkin puree, olive oil, and spices into a smooth hummus. Pair it with an assortment of veggie sticks for dipping.

Harvest Veggie Bowls

Cook rice and toss it with roasted fall vegetables like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and carrots. Add a sprinkle of feta cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tasty lunch option or, if you have more adventurous kids, give this recipe from Chelsea’s Messy Apron a try. This hearty bowl is full of flavor and perfect for keeping kids full and energized throughout the day.

Autumn Veggie Soup

Make a big batch of soup with carrots, butternut squash or potatoes, onions, and kale. Freeze portions to quickly thaw and pack for a warm and cozy lunch.

Carrot and Raisin Sandwiches

Grate carrots, mix with a little cream cheese, and spread on whole wheat bread with raisins for a sweet and crunchy sandwich.

Pumpkin Spice Yogurt Parfait

Layer vanilla yogurt with granola, pumpkin puree, and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice for a fun and festive treat.

Cinnamon Apple Energy Bites

Combine oats, honey, peanut butter, dried apples, and cinnamon. Roll into bite-sized balls for a perfect lunchtime snack.

Turkey and Cranberry Roll-Ups

Combine turkey, cranberries, cream cheese and lettuce or green onion. Roll up in a tortilla for a delicious and fun finger food.

Roasted Veggie Pasta Salad

Toss cooked pasta with roasted fall veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and broccoli. Add a simple vinaigrette for flavor.

Apple Butter and Ham Sandwiches

Spread apple butter on whole wheat bread, add thinly sliced ham and cheese, and then enjoy a sweet and savory lunch option.

Pumpkin Oatmeal Muffins

Bake a batch of pumpkin oatmeal muffins and pack one or two for a quick and easy lunchbox addition.

Cheesy Broccoli Bites

Mix steamed broccoli with shredded cheese and eggs, form into bite-sized patties, and bake until golden. These are perfect for little fingers!

Cranberry Chicken Salad Wraps

Mix cooked, shredded chicken with a bit of mayo, dried cranberries, and chopped celery. Serve in a wrap or sandwich for a filling and flavorful meal.

These 20 fall kid lunch ideas are designed to be quick, easy, and packed with seasonal flavors that your kids will love. With a little creativity and these ideas in your repertoire, you’ll be set for a delicious autumn!