If you want to send your child off to school with wholesome, "real food" lunches this year, planning ahead is key! I know it's tempting to just grab and go with those little prepackaged bags of cheese crackers and tubes of flavored yogurt, but giving your child nutritious foods throughout the school day can help them stay alert and do their best.
Now if I had to wake up each morning and make homemade "real food" school lunch recipes from scratch, well...that would just never happen! So instead I make lunch items when it is convenient for me and freeze them. This way—even on those nights when I am feeling tired and uninspired—I can quickly pack school lunches with ease. I would seriously never survive this chore otherwise!
I think it's safe to say freezing foods in advance is my number one school lunch "trick" that makes the lunches I pack even possible.
And my number two school lunch trick is to always pack—or at least start packing lunch—the night before!
So before we dive right into the list of things you should make and freeze right now at the beginning of the school year, here are a few freezing tips...
How to Freeze and Defrost Recipes for School Lunches
For Soups, Pastas, Meatballs, Refried Beans, Stews, Etc: Freeze the finished dish in individual portions using small jelly jars, small Tupperware containers, or even freezer-safe Ziploc bags (once the food has cooled). Note: If using glass jars leave room at the top for the soup to expand! The day/night before school: Take out the frozen item of choice and let it defrost in its container in the fridge overnight. On the morning of school heat up the item (we usually use a small pot on the stove, but the microwave would work as well) in a heat-proof container and then transfer it to a thermos container in order to keep it warm at school. Be sure to check out our post on how to select and use a thermos. I try to send "hot lunch" (usually a soup) every Wednesday because it's a nice break in the middle of the week, and I am now in a routine to remember to pick out something to defrost on Tuesdays. -
For Whole-Grain Muffins, Waffles, Pancakes, Quick Breads, Pizza Crusts, Store Bought Breads/Pitas, Etc: There are two ways to freeze bread items: 1. Freeze them in one layer on a baking sheet. Then once they are frozen transfer them to a big Ziploc bag or other freezer-safe container. 2. Eliminate a step by separating the layers of food with pieces of wax paper in your freezer-safe container/bag (so nothing sticks together). With certain foods (like muffins) I find that I don't even need the wax paper. The day/night before school: Pull out the desired individual frozen bread item, put it in the divided lunch container, and let it defrost in the fridge overnight with the other items you've packed. If you are just defrosting a bread item alone and it is not already packed with a perishable item then it can defrost on the counter at room temperature. -
For Smoothies: I freeze our smoothies in reusable silicone freezie pop molds and do not take them out until the morning of school. These do not need to defrost overnight! Instead they will actually slowly defrost throughout the school morning. My kids say they are kind of half frozen, half not by lunchtime (Note: I pack their lunch in insulated bags with 3 or 4 frozen ice packs). -
20 Freezable Lunch Ideas for School
Whole-Wheat Pancakes or Waffles. We use these to make sandwiches with all sorts of fillings like cream cheese, jam, cinnamon, raisins, and even peanut butter (or other nut butters).
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11. Whole-Wheat Lemon Raspberry or Carrot Applesauce Muffins Whether it's to accompany a serving of warm soup or to beef up a snacky cold lunch, my daughters never met a muffin of mine they didn't like! And these in particular are two of their favorites. -
12.Homemade Uncrustables So even though my daughters don't actually mind the crust, they still think uncrustables are fun to make and eat. Plus, the fact that I can make and freeze a big batch makes my life so much easier on some days! -
13.Homemade Pieces of Pizza Pizza that's been made (and cooled) surprisingly freezes beautifully! And if you don't want to make your own crust, you can cheat and use whole-wheat pitas. :) (P.S. That's a Yumbox that's pictured, and you can get 15% off with our "SWEET15" code.)-
14. Slow Cooker Potato Soup (recipe is in my cookbook) This is one of our new favorite soups. I love how hearty and filling it is, and my daughters love that I put (organic) bacon on top. (P.S. If you use jars to freeze individual portions like I did, don't forget to leave room at the top for the food to expand.) -
15.Chili It's hard to go wrong with chili this time of year! But I have two options for you (both made in the slow cooker) - either Steak Chili or Red and Green Veggie Chili. -
16.Whole-Wheat Crepes Leftover crepes are not commonplace around here, but you could always make a double batch for a fun surprise in a breakfast-themed school lunch. -
18.Whole-Wheat Bread or Cinnamon Raisin Bread When you find a good source for bread, it's a great idea to stock up. I divide loaves from Great Harvest into three or four Ziploc bags and freeze them. I love how their honey whole-wheat loaf is made with only five ingredients (whole-wheat flour, yeast, salt, water, and honey) and holds up really well in the freezer. You can always make your own too, of course!
19.Broccoli Cheese Soup This soup is a great way to get a dose of green veggies. I sometimes even add noodles to it when I pack it in the lunch box, which my kids love.
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20. Tortillas (Corn or Flour) If I have a couple tortillas on hand, I can always use that as a starting point for a great school lunch. Whether I use them to make a quick cheese quesadilla or pack them along with leftover taco fixings, my daughters like Mexican food so much, they don't mind eating it cold. :)
Bonus Freezing Tips
You can also freeze sauces like spaghetti sauce (for making your own pizza "lunchables"), organic applesauce (store bought or homemade), and pesto in little ice cube trays. These are great to have on hand for school lunch boxes as well!
I also love to freeze fresh organic berries in the summer to use all winter long to top off yogurt and add to muffins for the lunch box!
How many of these items do you already have in your freezer? :) Please share your freezing ahead tips for school lunches in the comments below.
Lisa is a wife, mother, foodie, blogger, and #1 New York Times Best-selling author who is on a mission to cut out processed food.
Comments
Rachelsays
Thank you for the great ideas. My daughter is about to start kindergarten. I know she won't like the leftovers I usually take. Have you ever tried to freeze Mac n cheese? That is one of her faves but I sure can't make it in time to leave at 640 with her.
I have frozen mac n cheese many times (homemade not the blue box but that would probably work too. Last time I made some for dinner I doubled the recipe and put the extras in ramekins lined with foil, when they were done baking I let them cool- popped them out of the ramekins wrapped and froze them, perfect size for lunches.
Hi there. Ramekins are a great idea. You can also use the jelly jars and thaw them overnight in the fridge. You can send it either hot in a thermos or cold. Regarding pizza sauce, Lisa has her favorite that she buys locally but there are lots of good organic sauces to choose from. Or, you can always make your own. I sometimes use Lisa's marinara: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2010/07/19/recipe-homemade-spaghetti-sauce/ instead of traditional pizza sauce. ~Amy
I find that it is really easy to freeze liquid things (spaghetti & sauce, soups, beans, etc...) in regular size silicone muffin trays. I put the tray on a cookie sheet in the freezer & once they are frozen, pop them out & store them in a ziploc bag. Then I just thaw what I need. I find that the mini muffin Silicone trays work great for dipping sauces (pizza sauce, etc) and pesto.
Hi there. This is Lisa's method in detail: The day/night before school: Take out the frozen item of choice and let it defrost in its container in the fridge overnight. On the morning of school heat up the item (we usually use a small pot on the stove, but the microwave would work as well) in a heat-proof container and then transfer it to a thermos container in order to keep it warm at school. Be sure to check out our post on how to select and use a thermos. I try to send “hot lunch†(usually a soup) every Wednesday because it’s a nice break in the middle of the week, and I am now in a routine to remember to pick out something to defrost on Tuesdays." ~Amy
Thank you for the great ideas, I already have my wheels turning for other things to put into my boys lunches. Oh and so glad I am not the only one with a child that likes tomato soup.
I went out to the store and bought a couple of items I saw in your post. I tried last year to pack my children's lunch but got lazy and lunch got boring!! These ideas are great, would love to hear even more ideas to keep a nice handy list so the kiddos will not get bored. I'm kinda excited to give this another try!!
I love this! I am past the age of school children but still enjoy all the info. I will have to say that you are defeating your purpose of healthy food if you cook or heat anything in the microwave as it kills all nutrients. So on the stove would be much better or heat water in the microwave and set the items in the warmed water.
Your school must have lockers. Our schools do not have lockers and the kids carry everything class to class. No rolling backpacks allowed. A lunchbox will be another additional item. Can you suggest less bulkier selections like brown bag choices.
Thank you for this posting! I am sending my kids to day care a few days early this year so I have extra time for food prep and storage. I just ordered a Foodsaver, so I can be sure my baked goods and meals stay fresh. I checked and the bags and they are BPA free, so I think it should be a good way to store. Has anyone else used these devices successfully?
I love my foodsaver but I did discover that it does not work for air filled baked good (like muffins). Since it squeezes out all the air the muffins got smushed. But for flat things or things that don't matter if they get squished a little it is great. You do have to be careful with liquids (soups, sauces, etc.) as the liquid spreads as the air is sucked out. I wouldn't fill the bags more than 1/2 full the first few times so you can get an idea of how the food 'flattens'.
hi there,
I LOVE my foodsaver, if you freeze your muffins first you are able to then vacuum seal them without them getting squashed. :)
Melissa Crittendensays
love these ideas...I bought the silicone freezie pop molds and my 9 yer old loves them! we freeze applesauce, smoothies, kefir, yogurt, and real fruit juices. this is a great way to use these things up when the exp dates are getting close. and you're right...envy of lunch table she is.
This is great! I always hear people saying they freeze things like muffins, but I wasn't sure about how to go about defrosting them without them coming out mushy. My son is starting preschool this year (and we have a baby due in November) and I'd like to send him to school with some fun, yet healthy snacks without a lot of morning prep time. I also love the freezable jars. I have to get some to send hubby to work with some soup and sandwiches this fall. Thanks for all the great tips & recipes. I enjoy reading them.
Hi Christina. Freezing does inevitably somewhat change the texture and moisture of a muffin but my results have not been soggy. :) I typically defrost in the fridge overnight and may heat them briefly if served as a breakfast item. For lunches, however, you just put them (defrosted but still cold) into their lunch containers. ~Amy
Thank you for sharing! I have made several of your recipes and have had good success! My favorite is the whole chicken in crock pot, and then making the chicken stock as well. The chicken stock has been amazing!
Question on the jelly jars: can you heat up the jars in a pot of water to heat up? Sorry if this is a silly question - haven't used them before. Thank you again!
Hi Madeline. We've not tried that. Here is Lisa's method: "The day/night before school: Take out the frozen item of choice and let it defrost in its container in the fridge overnight. On the morning of school heat up the item (we usually use a small pot on the stove, but the microwave would work as well) in a heat-proof container and then transfer it to a thermos container in order to keep it warm at school. Be sure to check out our post on how to select and use a thermos. I try to send “hot lunch†(usually a soup) every Wednesday because it’s a nice break in the middle of the week, and I am now in a routine to remember to pick out something to defrost on Tuesdays."
~Amy
You will have to run some warm or hot water on the outside of the jar to get it loosened up if you wanted to pour it into the pot, but you "could" heat up the jar in a pot of water, though I doubt that it would heat evenly. They are used for canning but just be sure to look at the temperature that the jar is approved for. Would hate to burst a glass jar the morning of school!
Hi! Thanks for the info, ladies! Looks like I will thaw in fridge overnight and then warm the contents on the stove. Didn't know if the jelly jars were heat resistant or not. Thanks again for the advice!
Love these idea's for lunches! Question: Do your kids eat the pizza lunch cold? Do they have a microwave in their lunch room? Sorry this is a duplicate, didn't have time to read all the comments.
My three year old son is a very picky eater, pasta and sauce, hot dogs and nuggets are what he will eat. He will not try many new foods and especially refuses hummus. How do I get him to eat on this diet? Any tricks to helping him change his taste buds?
Francis, maybe trying to change this diet slowly. Maybe try some homemade chicken nuggets and a healthy sauce that you can make together (thinking ketchup or honey/mustard based) and maybe trying to blend some veggies in the blender to add to the pasta sauces? Enlist him to help where he is able and give him choices? It is most definitely a challenge.
What a great list! I'm pretty organized about planning our dinners, but lunch is another story. My kids don't go back to school for two more weeks so I'll try to get a few of these into my freezer between now and then.
We recently put our son on a gluten free/dairy free diet due to some health problems. He has gotten one million times better, but now I am at a loss for what to feed him when he goes to school. He had his first day of kindergarten today and was ok with mainly fruits and veggies, but I would love some fun, filling, and yummy lunch ideas from anyone who has kids on a similar diet. Thanks!
Hi Erica - I recently switched to a gluten free diet to help with some health issues. I don't know what all your son likes to eat, but I've had fun experimenting with some different whole grain gluten free flours (I followed Shauna's advice at Gluten Free Girl http://glutenfreegirl.com/2013/02/how-to-make-a-gluten-free-whole-grain-flour-mix/). I've been able to make various muffins using the mix I made in a one-to-one replacement with regular wheat flour. They have frozen and defrosted well, so I'm really excited to pack these in lunches! I also used the flour to make some yummy waffles. Besides baking, it has helped me to start thinking about all the foods I CAN eat rather than the ones I can't. Lots of dips (hummus, homemade bean dips, etc.) with veggies, rice crackers (without additives), or non-GMO corn chips, fruit, smoothies, nuts, homemade granola bars with GF oats, eggs in various ways (my husband makes a mean egg salad that's great on celery or rice crackers). I'd love to hear other ideas for GF whole foods as well!
Erica, try nomnompaleo.com/recipeindex There are mostly adult recipes there, but she does have younger children that she cooks for as well. Hopefully you can find a few ideas there. Like this page...nomnompaleo.com/post/30267255011/a-week-of-paleo-school-lunches-part-1-of-5
Elanaspantry.com has gluten-free recipes as well, and there's a book called cookies for everyone that has gluten, dairy, and nut free recipes for baking. Good luck.
I totally agree. I love all of these dead but PLEASE stay away from using the microwave!! You are doing all this hard work only to harm the food with that appliance. Thanks again!!!!
Oh my gosh I could just hug you right now! This is amazing and so helpful. You just took so much stress and anxiety about first time 5 day lunch packing away for me!!!!!!!
Great ideas! It looks like you use the 2 part lids that come with the canning jars to freeze the soups in? Is that so? And if yes, do the soups ever experience freezer burn? The reason I ask is because I heard that those 2 part lids are not airtight...
If you put a canning lid on a jar with hot food in it, it will seal and becomes more air tight. It is not the same as canning it (safety wise), but air tight for freezing.
I love packing smoothies. I do not have any of those little containers, however, many stores sell a small size plastic freezer jar. They have purple lids. I love them because they are just the right size and the lid turns easy so my kids can get it off without difficulty. (They too love that they are still a bit frozen at first lunch break!)
You mentioned defrosting bread items the night before, is there any reason you can't pack in the lunch frozen, an let thaw in the morning before lunch?
Thank you! This post was just in time. I am looking forward to packing lunches this year.
I have a freshman in high school this year and two in middle school. It will give me great peace of mind knowing what they are eating and also I think they will enjoy the autonomy of picking what they want to pack for lunch. I'm kinda curious bout portion sizes for their ages and the fact that they are growing boys? Any suggestions? Thank you! I am really enjoying and learning quite a bit from your site!
Hi Tina. Every child is going to be different regarding their appetites. It may take some trial and error to find the amount that is right for them. Just pack healthy real food and if a bit comes home, you'll know you can cut back on portions a bit. Best of luck. :) ~Amy
I am really making a concerted effort this year not to use processed foods for my kids' lunches. I have the smoothie pop makers, and I just purchased the "Laptop Lunchbox" containers (not the lunchbox itself since my kids all have nice lunchboxes purchased last year), Kidconserv thermoses, and I am ready to pack lunch. However, my kids are so picky now. They only like the processed, sugary stuff. We are eating differently at home and there's a rebellion afoot (they are 12, 9, 9, and 8, and I am widowed so I don't have hubby to back me up). Any reader tips for switching kids' diets when they are older than toddler age? My saving grace is that they do like homemade soups, but they aren't bread eaters, only two like muffins, etc. Tomorrow they are having rice balls (sushi rice), soup, and carrots and grapes, but I don't know what I will do after the first day. Help!
How about getting a kids based cookbook from the library and letting them take part in choosing and planning healthier choices? It won't happen overnite, but i bet if they have some input and realize they can pick some things they DO already like they may be more open to change. Even if its just one or two items a day that get swapped out. And by the way, sometimes other adults are the most difficult ones to get on board with a lifestyle change! Hard boiled eggs, cheese, whole grain crackers/chips and a fruit or veggies with dip...it doesn't have to look like a sit down dinner...think party platter food and it might help ease the transition! Best wishes!!
Kimberlie, I'm having some of the same issues with my 4 kids. I am just emerging from the baby blur (youngest just turned 3) and am trying to make some changes in our eating habits. Talk to them about what's in food...I had a rebellion when I stopped buying Kraft mac & cheese, but I told them why and had them start reading labels for themselves. Today I had them watch a video on Unreal candy (link on Lisa's blog). Try serving things on toothpicks or skewers and have them help you cook. I've had some surprises along the way, like when my veggie-hating 11 year-old announced that she loves edamame! Keep up the good fight, you're not alone!!
Kimberly, my two kids (all 4 of us really) have widely different tastes so I understand! But I get to know what they like and make their favorites for the freezer, that way, batches of homemade baked goods and planned-overs last a while. Textures and temperatures are personal too, so offer the kids veggies both cooked and raw to see what they like. Odds are that they will find a variety of healthy things they each like and can make up their own menus/favorties lists. Some kids are fine with repeating the same favorites for a long time :) Get creative like the other comments suggested. Breads/crackers/popcorn/muffins/French toast/mini pancakes/tortillas/bagels/English muffins can all sub for a grain element. For protein, think of any nuts/seeds/cooked meats/cheeses/eggs/beans in all manner of states (pieces, spreads, etc depending on texture issues. Don't forget about dried fruit, olives, pickled veggies, gelatin juice cubes. Dips are another way to get in some protein (made with yogurt or cheese or beans) if you have kids who like to dip. I also recently compiled a list homemade recipes that can replace the processed foods my kids eat the most of- cereal, bread, yogurt, crackers. Slowly you can find some recipes everyone likes. Good luck!
I think give the kids as many choices as you can. I remember that we got my daughter to like salad by offering numerous toppings that she can add herself...olives, sunflower seeds, pumpkins seeds, homemade croutons, etc. All of the toppings were acceptable to me and she had choices and that seemed to make all the difference. Maybe also enlist them into the cooking process too.
So glad I saw this today. I have shared your page on my FB page. This is just what I was looking for, for my 4 kids that all react to lots of processed foods. I must say, since getting my Thermo things are better, but could be MUCH better with planning. Thanks again!
I made and have frozen quinoa pizza bites for my boys lunches! They love them!! I also prefer your meatballs in organic bbq sauce instead of spaghetti sauce...and I com and puree butternut squash and freeze it in ice cubes to add to homemade mac'n cheese that I make in the morning. I find it makes it yummy naturally orange (lol) and its a veggie cant go wrong!
I just use a recipe off Pinterest it's cooked quinoa eggs mozzarella cheese pepperoni cut up basil garlic and a tiny bit of pizza sauce with more for dipping its really really sticky!! There were several pins but they all had very similar recipes. The one I looked at said to put it in a mini muffin pan...this was a disaster!!! Next time cull just make lil balls or parties!
Charsays
I don't have kids but I pack my own lunches for work. I like to make 4 lunches on Sunday evening and I'm set for the week. I find that I usually have at least one day each week where I end up going out so 4 is my magic number.
Do you heat up the spaghetti before you pack it? Sorry if that's a silly question... I am trying to determine if it stays warm or if your kids eat it cool? Thank you!
Yes, just like the soups I heat up the spaghetti in the morning. Although the other day my daughter said she was fine with cold leftover macaroni and cheese (for camp lunch) and she ate it all! I just can't send hot food in the middle of the summer when camp is outdoors - just didn't seem right.
I was about to freeze my spaghetti and meatballs and realized that I've never frozen noodles. The directions on your site say to freeze the noodles but in the picture there is only meatballs and sauce. Just wondering if you add the noodles to be frozen?? Thanks
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy)says
Hi Michelle. You can freeze it all together. It is very convenient to do so. I often just boil my noodles fresh because my kids like it better that way. ~Amy
Ashleysays
Your ideas are amazing! I was lucky enough to find your blog at the beginning of summer and have been slowly stocking my freezer with some of your recipes! This post is great though! Sums it all up! I feel so prepared to pack lunches this year! Thank you!
I made smoothies and put them in the little molds, and I made waffles. I also made homemade granola bars and whole wheat blueberry bread using raw honey instead of sugar.... We shall see how the granola bars freeze.... Well hopefully eek:)
I just found out that you can freeze muffin batter-scoop it into liners and freeze the whole thing. Then instead of defrosting a muffin (which is good but sometimes they get dry) you just cook the batter and have fresh muffins without the prep work!
Good idea Julia! Do you go straight from freezer to oven or defrost first? The reason I like baking them ahead of time is because a batch will last me a while. I only pull one or two out at a time (each week).
This is a great idea! I'm trying to revamp our eating habits, and this trick is going to be a lifesaver. Pinning so I can refer to it again and again. Thanks :)
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Rachel says
Thank you for the great ideas. My daughter is about to start kindergarten. I know she won't like the leftovers I usually take. Have you ever tried to freeze Mac n cheese? That is one of her faves but I sure can't make it in time to leave at 640 with her.
Rachel says
One more ? Are you still buying pizza sauce at the farmers market, or have you started making your own? Thanks again!
caroline says
I have frozen mac n cheese many times (homemade not the blue box but that would probably work too. Last time I made some for dinner I doubled the recipe and put the extras in ramekins lined with foil, when they were done baking I let them cool- popped them out of the ramekins wrapped and froze them, perfect size for lunches.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi there. Ramekins are a great idea. You can also use the jelly jars and thaw them overnight in the fridge. You can send it either hot in a thermos or cold. Regarding pizza sauce, Lisa has her favorite that she buys locally but there are lots of good organic sauces to choose from. Or, you can always make your own. I sometimes use Lisa's marinara: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2010/07/19/recipe-homemade-spaghetti-sauce/ instead of traditional pizza sauce. ~Amy
Dawn says
Do your kids eat the pizza lunch cold?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Dawn. Yep, they eat it cold or room temperature. ~Amy
Jennifer says
I find that it is really easy to freeze liquid things (spaghetti & sauce, soups, beans, etc...) in regular size silicone muffin trays. I put the tray on a cookie sheet in the freezer & once they are frozen, pop them out & store them in a ziploc bag. Then I just thaw what I need. I find that the mini muffin Silicone trays work great for dipping sauces (pizza sauce, etc) and pesto.
lealorali says
Love this post! But how would kids heat up the soup? They do not have access to microwaves usually.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi there. This is Lisa's method in detail: The day/night before school: Take out the frozen item of choice and let it defrost in its container in the fridge overnight. On the morning of school heat up the item (we usually use a small pot on the stove, but the microwave would work as well) in a heat-proof container and then transfer it to a thermos container in order to keep it warm at school. Be sure to check out our post on how to select and use a thermos. I try to send “hot lunch†(usually a soup) every Wednesday because it’s a nice break in the middle of the week, and I am now in a routine to remember to pick out something to defrost on Tuesdays." ~Amy
Lisa says
Thank you for the great ideas, I already have my wheels turning for other things to put into my boys lunches. Oh and so glad I am not the only one with a child that likes tomato soup.
Amy says
Love this, thank-you, thank-you, thank-you!!!
Leanna says
I went out to the store and bought a couple of items I saw in your post. I tried last year to pack my children's lunch but got lazy and lunch got boring!! These ideas are great, would love to hear even more ideas to keep a nice handy list so the kiddos will not get bored. I'm kinda excited to give this another try!!
Darla says
I love this! I am past the age of school children but still enjoy all the info. I will have to say that you are defeating your purpose of healthy food if you cook or heat anything in the microwave as it kills all nutrients. So on the stove would be much better or heat water in the microwave and set the items in the warmed water.
Heidi says
We use the full-size freezable PackIt reusable lunch bags to keep the kids lunches cold for school. This is a good option for older kids and adults.
Ms. Nicholls says
Your school must have lockers. Our schools do not have lockers and the kids carry everything class to class. No rolling backpacks allowed. A lunchbox will be another additional item. Can you suggest less bulkier selections like brown bag choices.
Km says
Thank you for this posting! I am sending my kids to day care a few days early this year so I have extra time for food prep and storage. I just ordered a Foodsaver, so I can be sure my baked goods and meals stay fresh. I checked and the bags and they are BPA free, so I think it should be a good way to store. Has anyone else used these devices successfully?
caroline says
I love my foodsaver but I did discover that it does not work for air filled baked good (like muffins). Since it squeezes out all the air the muffins got smushed. But for flat things or things that don't matter if they get squished a little it is great. You do have to be careful with liquids (soups, sauces, etc.) as the liquid spreads as the air is sucked out. I wouldn't fill the bags more than 1/2 full the first few times so you can get an idea of how the food 'flattens'.
tammy says
hi there,
I LOVE my foodsaver, if you freeze your muffins first you are able to then vacuum seal them without them getting squashed. :)
Melissa Crittenden says
love these ideas...I bought the silicone freezie pop molds and my 9 yer old loves them! we freeze applesauce, smoothies, kefir, yogurt, and real fruit juices. this is a great way to use these things up when the exp dates are getting close. and you're right...envy of lunch table she is.
Christina says
This is great! I always hear people saying they freeze things like muffins, but I wasn't sure about how to go about defrosting them without them coming out mushy. My son is starting preschool this year (and we have a baby due in November) and I'd like to send him to school with some fun, yet healthy snacks without a lot of morning prep time. I also love the freezable jars. I have to get some to send hubby to work with some soup and sandwiches this fall. Thanks for all the great tips & recipes. I enjoy reading them.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Christina. Freezing does inevitably somewhat change the texture and moisture of a muffin but my results have not been soggy. :) I typically defrost in the fridge overnight and may heat them briefly if served as a breakfast item. For lunches, however, you just put them (defrosted but still cold) into their lunch containers. ~Amy
Madeline says
Thank you for sharing! I have made several of your recipes and have had good success! My favorite is the whole chicken in crock pot, and then making the chicken stock as well. The chicken stock has been amazing!
Question on the jelly jars: can you heat up the jars in a pot of water to heat up? Sorry if this is a silly question - haven't used them before. Thank you again!
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Madeline. We've not tried that. Here is Lisa's method: "The day/night before school: Take out the frozen item of choice and let it defrost in its container in the fridge overnight. On the morning of school heat up the item (we usually use a small pot on the stove, but the microwave would work as well) in a heat-proof container and then transfer it to a thermos container in order to keep it warm at school. Be sure to check out our post on how to select and use a thermos. I try to send “hot lunch†(usually a soup) every Wednesday because it’s a nice break in the middle of the week, and I am now in a routine to remember to pick out something to defrost on Tuesdays."
~Amy
Emily says
You will have to run some warm or hot water on the outside of the jar to get it loosened up if you wanted to pour it into the pot, but you "could" heat up the jar in a pot of water, though I doubt that it would heat evenly. They are used for canning but just be sure to look at the temperature that the jar is approved for. Would hate to burst a glass jar the morning of school!
Madeline says
Hi! Thanks for the info, ladies! Looks like I will thaw in fridge overnight and then warm the contents on the stove. Didn't know if the jelly jars were heat resistant or not. Thanks again for the advice!
Josie Marsh says
I also like to make & freeze these on the weekends for yummy and nutritious breakfasts: http://www.sproutedkitchen.com/home/2011/5/23/baked-blueberry-oatmeal.html
Erin@MommyontheSpot says
These are great tips! Thanks for posting!
Dawn says
Love these idea's for lunches! Question: Do your kids eat the pizza lunch cold? Do they have a microwave in their lunch room? Sorry this is a duplicate, didn't have time to read all the comments.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Dawn. We do not have the option of heating food at school. The kids do eat their pizza cold or at room temp. ~Amy
Francis says
My three year old son is a very picky eater, pasta and sauce, hot dogs and nuggets are what he will eat. He will not try many new foods and especially refuses hummus. How do I get him to eat on this diet? Any tricks to helping him change his taste buds?
Anna says
Francis, maybe trying to change this diet slowly. Maybe try some homemade chicken nuggets and a healthy sauce that you can make together (thinking ketchup or honey/mustard based) and maybe trying to blend some veggies in the blender to add to the pasta sauces? Enlist him to help where he is able and give him choices? It is most definitely a challenge.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi there. We have many picky eater posts that might also help: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/12/07/picky-eater-vs-problem-feeder/, https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/09/09/real-food-tips-12-ways-to-deal-with-a-picky-eater/ and https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2010/08/19/winning-over-your-picky-eater/. Best of luck. ~Amy
Annemarie @ Real Food Real Deals says
What a great list! I'm pretty organized about planning our dinners, but lunch is another story. My kids don't go back to school for two more weeks so I'll try to get a few of these into my freezer between now and then.
Getting there says
Sorry...don't know where "dead" in there came from. Sorry!
Erica says
We recently put our son on a gluten free/dairy free diet due to some health problems. He has gotten one million times better, but now I am at a loss for what to feed him when he goes to school. He had his first day of kindergarten today and was ok with mainly fruits and veggies, but I would love some fun, filling, and yummy lunch ideas from anyone who has kids on a similar diet. Thanks!
Jocelyn says
Hi Erica - I recently switched to a gluten free diet to help with some health issues. I don't know what all your son likes to eat, but I've had fun experimenting with some different whole grain gluten free flours (I followed Shauna's advice at Gluten Free Girl http://glutenfreegirl.com/2013/02/how-to-make-a-gluten-free-whole-grain-flour-mix/). I've been able to make various muffins using the mix I made in a one-to-one replacement with regular wheat flour. They have frozen and defrosted well, so I'm really excited to pack these in lunches! I also used the flour to make some yummy waffles. Besides baking, it has helped me to start thinking about all the foods I CAN eat rather than the ones I can't. Lots of dips (hummus, homemade bean dips, etc.) with veggies, rice crackers (without additives), or non-GMO corn chips, fruit, smoothies, nuts, homemade granola bars with GF oats, eggs in various ways (my husband makes a mean egg salad that's great on celery or rice crackers). I'd love to hear other ideas for GF whole foods as well!
mandy says
Erica, try nomnompaleo.com/recipeindex There are mostly adult recipes there, but she does have younger children that she cooks for as well. Hopefully you can find a few ideas there. Like this page...nomnompaleo.com/post/30267255011/a-week-of-paleo-school-lunches-part-1-of-5
Ali says
To replace breads get organic gluten free bread. Also spaghetti is an awesome option if you use whole grain gluten free noodles and tomato sauce.
Alison says
Elanaspantry.com has gluten-free recipes as well, and there's a book called cookies for everyone that has gluten, dairy, and nut free recipes for baking. Good luck.
Eb says
Do a little research on why a microwave should never be used for food.
Getting there says
I totally agree. I love all of these dead but PLEASE stay away from using the microwave!! You are doing all this hard work only to harm the food with that appliance. Thanks again!!!!
Emily says
Oh my gosh I could just hug you right now! This is amazing and so helpful. You just took so much stress and anxiety about first time 5 day lunch packing away for me!!!!!!!
Beth George says
I have a question. How do you pack a hot food such as soup with a cold food such as a smoothie in the same lunchbox? Thanks!
Alisa says
I just put them in two different thermoses . . . withOUT ice packs on that day, so I don't cool down the hot soup.
Kim says
Great ideas! It looks like you use the 2 part lids that come with the canning jars to freeze the soups in? Is that so? And if yes, do the soups ever experience freezer burn? The reason I ask is because I heard that those 2 part lids are not airtight...
Thanks!
Kim says
I use the same jars and lids and don't have any problems with freezer burn.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
I agree. I have not had an issue with freezer burn. ~Amy
Martha says
If you put a canning lid on a jar with hot food in it, it will seal and becomes more air tight. It is not the same as canning it (safety wise), but air tight for freezing.
Cynthia says
I love packing smoothies. I do not have any of those little containers, however, many stores sell a small size plastic freezer jar. They have purple lids. I love them because they are just the right size and the lid turns easy so my kids can get it off without difficulty. (They too love that they are still a bit frozen at first lunch break!)
Barbara says
I love your lunch tips & so does my daughter!
Cute personalized thermos food jars:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/155641642/personalized-foogo-thermos-food-jar?ref=sr_gallery_2&ga_search_query=Thermos+foogo&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=all&ga_facet=Thermos+foogo
Erin | The Emerging Foodie says
Ok, I have no kids but I still love these ideas for myself! :) I definitely want to try the meatball/pasta in a jar idea... so clever!
Jennifer says
You mentioned defrosting bread items the night before, is there any reason you can't pack in the lunch frozen, an let thaw in the morning before lunch?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Jennifer. You might run the risk of them not being quite defrosted by lunchtime. ~Amy
Tina says
Thank you! This post was just in time. I am looking forward to packing lunches this year.
I have a freshman in high school this year and two in middle school. It will give me great peace of mind knowing what they are eating and also I think they will enjoy the autonomy of picking what they want to pack for lunch. I'm kinda curious bout portion sizes for their ages and the fact that they are growing boys? Any suggestions? Thank you! I am really enjoying and learning quite a bit from your site!
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Tina. Every child is going to be different regarding their appetites. It may take some trial and error to find the amount that is right for them. Just pack healthy real food and if a bit comes home, you'll know you can cut back on portions a bit. Best of luck. :) ~Amy
Kimberlie says
I am really making a concerted effort this year not to use processed foods for my kids' lunches. I have the smoothie pop makers, and I just purchased the "Laptop Lunchbox" containers (not the lunchbox itself since my kids all have nice lunchboxes purchased last year), Kidconserv thermoses, and I am ready to pack lunch. However, my kids are so picky now. They only like the processed, sugary stuff. We are eating differently at home and there's a rebellion afoot (they are 12, 9, 9, and 8, and I am widowed so I don't have hubby to back me up). Any reader tips for switching kids' diets when they are older than toddler age? My saving grace is that they do like homemade soups, but they aren't bread eaters, only two like muffins, etc. Tomorrow they are having rice balls (sushi rice), soup, and carrots and grapes, but I don't know what I will do after the first day. Help!
Trisha says
How about getting a kids based cookbook from the library and letting them take part in choosing and planning healthier choices? It won't happen overnite, but i bet if they have some input and realize they can pick some things they DO already like they may be more open to change. Even if its just one or two items a day that get swapped out. And by the way, sometimes other adults are the most difficult ones to get on board with a lifestyle change! Hard boiled eggs, cheese, whole grain crackers/chips and a fruit or veggies with dip...it doesn't have to look like a sit down dinner...think party platter food and it might help ease the transition! Best wishes!!
Katie says
Kimberlie, I'm having some of the same issues with my 4 kids. I am just emerging from the baby blur (youngest just turned 3) and am trying to make some changes in our eating habits. Talk to them about what's in food...I had a rebellion when I stopped buying Kraft mac & cheese, but I told them why and had them start reading labels for themselves. Today I had them watch a video on Unreal candy (link on Lisa's blog). Try serving things on toothpicks or skewers and have them help you cook. I've had some surprises along the way, like when my veggie-hating 11 year-old announced that she loves edamame! Keep up the good fight, you're not alone!!
Melanie says
Kimberly, my two kids (all 4 of us really) have widely different tastes so I understand! But I get to know what they like and make their favorites for the freezer, that way, batches of homemade baked goods and planned-overs last a while. Textures and temperatures are personal too, so offer the kids veggies both cooked and raw to see what they like. Odds are that they will find a variety of healthy things they each like and can make up their own menus/favorties lists. Some kids are fine with repeating the same favorites for a long time :) Get creative like the other comments suggested. Breads/crackers/popcorn/muffins/French toast/mini pancakes/tortillas/bagels/English muffins can all sub for a grain element. For protein, think of any nuts/seeds/cooked meats/cheeses/eggs/beans in all manner of states (pieces, spreads, etc depending on texture issues. Don't forget about dried fruit, olives, pickled veggies, gelatin juice cubes. Dips are another way to get in some protein (made with yogurt or cheese or beans) if you have kids who like to dip. I also recently compiled a list homemade recipes that can replace the processed foods my kids eat the most of- cereal, bread, yogurt, crackers. Slowly you can find some recipes everyone likes. Good luck!
Anna says
I think give the kids as many choices as you can. I remember that we got my daughter to like salad by offering numerous toppings that she can add herself...olives, sunflower seeds, pumpkins seeds, homemade croutons, etc. All of the toppings were acceptable to me and she had choices and that seemed to make all the difference. Maybe also enlist them into the cooking process too.
Sherie says
So glad I saw this today. I have shared your page on my FB page. This is just what I was looking for, for my 4 kids that all react to lots of processed foods. I must say, since getting my Thermo things are better, but could be MUCH better with planning. Thanks again!
jaci says
I made and have frozen quinoa pizza bites for my boys lunches! They love them!! I also prefer your meatballs in organic bbq sauce instead of spaghetti sauce...and I com and puree butternut squash and freeze it in ice cubes to add to homemade mac'n cheese that I make in the morning. I find it makes it yummy naturally orange (lol) and its a veggie cant go wrong!
Rachel says
I'll have to try squash. Thanks à We always add freshly grated carrot to the roux.
Rachel says
Will you share your recipe for quinoa pizza bites?? :)
Jaci says
I just use a recipe off Pinterest it's cooked quinoa eggs mozzarella cheese pepperoni cut up basil garlic and a tiny bit of pizza sauce with more for dipping its really really sticky!! There were several pins but they all had very similar recipes. The one I looked at said to put it in a mini muffin pan...this was a disaster!!! Next time cull just make lil balls or parties!
Char says
I don't have kids but I pack my own lunches for work. I like to make 4 lunches on Sunday evening and I'm set for the week. I find that I usually have at least one day each week where I end up going out so 4 is my magic number.
Here's an example: http://reallyeating.areavoices.com/2013/02/18/sunday-prep-for-the-week-ahead/
Victoria says
Do you heat up the spaghetti before you pack it? Sorry if that's a silly question... I am trying to determine if it stays warm or if your kids eat it cool? Thank you!
Lisa says
Yes, just like the soups I heat up the spaghetti in the morning. Although the other day my daughter said she was fine with cold leftover macaroni and cheese (for camp lunch) and she ate it all! I just can't send hot food in the middle of the summer when camp is outdoors - just didn't seem right.
Michelle says
I was about to freeze my spaghetti and meatballs and realized that I've never frozen noodles. The directions on your site say to freeze the noodles but in the picture there is only meatballs and sauce. Just wondering if you add the noodles to be frozen?? Thanks
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Michelle. You can freeze it all together. It is very convenient to do so. I often just boil my noodles fresh because my kids like it better that way. ~Amy
Ashley says
Your ideas are amazing! I was lucky enough to find your blog at the beginning of summer and have been slowly stocking my freezer with some of your recipes! This post is great though! Sums it all up! I feel so prepared to pack lunches this year! Thank you!
Lisa says
Thank you for that - glad you are enjoying the site! :)
Eileen says
I made smoothies and put them in the little molds, and I made waffles. I also made homemade granola bars and whole wheat blueberry bread using raw honey instead of sugar.... We shall see how the granola bars freeze.... Well hopefully eek:)
Lisa says
Eileen you honestly sound way more prepared than me right now. I definitely have some cooking to do before school starts for us later this month!
Julia says
I just found out that you can freeze muffin batter-scoop it into liners and freeze the whole thing. Then instead of defrosting a muffin (which is good but sometimes they get dry) you just cook the batter and have fresh muffins without the prep work!
Lisa says
Good idea Julia! Do you go straight from freezer to oven or defrost first? The reason I like baking them ahead of time is because a batch will last me a while. I only pull one or two out at a time (each week).
Alisa says
I freeze the batter like this all the time. You pull them out frozen and then just add a few extra minutes to the bake time. It works like a charm!
Justyna says
I love this idea, Julia! Adding it to my baking list. Thank you!
Amber Blackman says
You have done a wonderful job! :) I am so excited to implement your ideas which look so fabulous! Thank you for sharing!
Lisa says
You are so welcome :)
Emily @ My Love for Words says
This is a great idea! I'm trying to revamp our eating habits, and this trick is going to be a lifesaver. Pinning so I can refer to it again and again. Thanks :)