School is a stressful time for both the kids and the parents. Getting the kids out the door causes many headaches. Thankfully, Costco has you covered on back-to-school lunch ideas for one less thing to worry about in the morning. We’ve gathered some of the best school lunch ideas at Costco for a balanced, filling meal. These ideas take the best food items at Costco and whip them into kid-friendly meals that take little time to prepare, whether in the morning or the night before.
If you want to be the first to read our exclusive content and hear about new Costco deals, sign up for our email list here.
8. Yogurt Parfaits
Some kids just want something simple to eat. Yogurt parfaits are the perfect option. They’re simple, yet can be packed with various nutrients.
Start with protein-packed Greek yogurt. The toppings make a parfait, so include fresh fruit like strawberries and blueberries. Add granola for added fiber, like this Purely Elizabeth Cookie Granola. Sneak in some chia seeds if you can for fiber and omega-3s. A perfect side of this parfait is a freshly-baked bagel from Costco’s bakery.
Check Out: Must-Know Costco Shopping Tips for Small Households
7. Meatball Marinara
Bring the comfort of home-cooked meals to your kids’ lunch. Costco’s six-pound bag of meatballs not only covers dinner, but several days of lunch as well.
Boil a small batch of pasta, marinara, and heat a few meatballs for a mouthwatering lunch for the kids. It’s hearty and filling enough that all you need to add to the lunch is a quick salad that pairs with the pasta. Costco has various premade salads you can split amongst the family, including Caesar and Wedge salads.
6. Breakfast for Lunch
Make their day a special one by including breakfast for lunch. There’s nothing like the sweet flavors of syrup and savory eggs to encourage kids to eat their lunch.
Start with the Belgian Boys mini pancakes, which only take a couple of minutes to heat up. Add a healthy, protein-filled addition with these Kirkland Signature Egg Bites, which include egg whites, cheese, and roasted peppers. Add a side of their favorite fruit like strawberries, bananas, or grapes for a hearty, complete lunch.
Also Read: How to Turn Costco Frozen Foods Into Dinners for the Family
5. Chicken Nuggets
Some classic lunch recipes are always a hit with the kids. One of the best lunch ideas at Costco is classic chicken nuggets with nutritious sides.
Just Bare chicken chunks are a must-have item from Costco, no matter if you have kids or not. They’re lightly breaded and full of protein. Either include ketchup or ranch as a dip, or toss in sauce like teriyaki or buffalo. Along with the chicken nuggets, include a pack of hummus with vegetables like celery, carrots, and cucumbers. You can also include a pouch of Kirkland Signature apple sauce for even more nutrients.
4. Kid-Friendly Charcuterie
Do your kids love a filling plate of cheese, meat, and olives? Why not pack them a kid-friendly charcuterie plate that they can nibble on throughout lunch, that still has protein and fiber to keep them full?
Start off with these Formaggio Artisan mozzarella wrapped up in various meats. Pair those hearty snacks with Simple Mills crackers for the perfect bite. From there, include chopped vegetables like cucumber sticks, cherry tomatoes, carrots, and broccoli with yogurt as a dip. Add a side of trail mix with nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate.
Read Next: Must-Have Kitchen Gadgets at Costco Under $25
3. Premade Chicken and Swiss Pinwheel
Sometimes weeks are busy, and you’d give anything to not have to make your kids’ lunches. One of the best school lunch ideas at Costco has to be from their premade pinwheels.
Made with roasted chicken and Swiss, these pinwheels come in a package of 12, perfect to include over a couple of days or to spread amongst the kids. These easy pinwheels are the perfect main course and pair well with several types of sides, including these Bare Baked Apple Slices. For a sweet treat, include these granola minis from MadeGood for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
2. Chicken Sausages
While you make breakfast in the morning, why not fry up some chicken sausages for a protein-filled lunch? Aidells chicken and apple sausages are both savory and sweet, which kids crave, and make the perfect main course for lunch.
These chicken sausages are easy to cook in the pan in the morning, and can be tossed with some vegetables like broccoli and peppers for a nutritious meal. Pack it in a thermos to keep it warm, along with some GoGo yogurt and fruit like oranges.
Check Out: Costco Dorm Essentials You Need Before Heading Back to School
1. Deli Sandwich
There’s nothing wrong with sticking to the classic recipes for the kids. Sandwiches are an easy option that you can throw together in the morning.
Kirkland Signature has a great deal on deli meat, with a 3-pack of various options including chicken breast, ham, and roast beef. This is a perfect option for your kids who might have picky tastes. Finland also has a two-pound package of various cheeses, like Swiss, Colby Jack, Cheddar, and Monterey Jack. Pair your sandwich with these Pure Organic fruit bars and your kids’ favorite chips, and you have a hearty, delicious, and satisfying school lunch.
Read More: Items That Are New at Costco
Don’t forget to keep checking back here at Costco97 for information on the best deals and hidden sales like .97 discounts. We talk about the best Costco bargains, secret hacks, and everything there is to know about the wholesaler and being a part of their membership. And be sure to stay in touch with the upcoming coupons, listed in our Costco Coupon Book (updated monthly).