29 Back To School Recipes That Have Me Winning The Week

You know things are going well when even the picky eaters are too busy chewing to argue. With 29 back to school recipes in play, I stopped relying on cereal and crossed into actual meal territory. People are calling me organized, and I’m just rolling with it. It’s probably the only time I’ve ever been early to anything.

Baked sweet potato topped with black beans, corn, avocado, sliced jalapeños, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, with lime slices on the side.
Southwest Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sourdough Waffles

Two stacked waffles with a bite taken out, topped with banana slices, blueberries, and a pat of butter.
Sourdough Waffles. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Start the week with something simple and satisfying like Sourdough Waffles. They’re perfect for busy mornings and give everyone a good start to their day. You can make enough to freeze and toast for later, saving time. They’re a great mix of quick, easy, and practical.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Waffles

Grilled Hot Dogs

Four hot dogs in buns topped with crispy fried onions are arranged on parchment paper in a basket.
Grilled Hot Dogs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

On a busy school night, nothing beats Grilled Hot Dogs. They’re quick to whip up and make everyone happy. Customize with different toppings to keep things interesting. Perfect for when you need dinner on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Dogs

Salted Honey Cookies

A stack of three round, golden-brown cookies with chocolate flecks and a sprinkle of salt on top, resting on a cooling rack with more cookies around them.
Salted Honey Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Need dessert after dinner? Try Salted Honey Cookies. They’re sweet with just the right amount of salty to balance things out. Perfect for packing in a lunchbox or as an after-school snack. These are a great way to round out your day.
Get the Recipe: Salted Honey Cookies

Egg Salad

A bowl of creamy egg salad topped with chopped parsley and paprika, set on a light-colored surface.
Egg Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Looking for something classic and reliable? Egg Salad is always a solid pick. It works great for lunches, whether it’s in a wrap, on toast, or a bed of greens. It’s a fuss-free meal that works for everyone in the family.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

Chicken Salad Sandwich

A shredded chicken salad sandwich with lettuce, raisins, and a creamy dressing served in a brioche bun.
Chicken Salad Sandwich. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Easy to pack and always a crowd pleaser, Chicken Salad Sandwiches are perfect for back-to-school lunches. They’re filling, simple, and great for prepping ahead of time. You can customize them to suit picky eaters or adventurous ones. Toss them in a bag with a piece of fruit, and you have a winning combo.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad Sandwich

Sausage Balls

Plate of crispy fried dumplings with chopped herbs, served with a bowl of brown dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Great for breakfast, snack time, or even packed lunches, Sausage Balls are super versatile. These little bites come together quickly and are fantastic for on-the-go days. They’re also fun to share and a big hit with kids. Keep a batch in the fridge, and you’ll be set for the whole week.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Blackened Chicken Clubs

A grilled chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, bacon, and mayonnaise on toasted bread, served with potato chips on a white plate.
Blackened Chicken Clubs. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Switch things up with Blackened Chicken Clubs. They’re filling, tasty, and make a great weekday dinner. Add a quick side, and you’re set with a meal that feels complete. It’s effortless but doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Clubs

Carrot Cake

Close-up of sliced carrot cake loaf with visible nuts and raisins on a parchment paper, topped with a light icing drizzle.
Carrot Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Need dessert that feels homemade and special? Carrot Cake can handle that. It fits right into an after-school evening or a weekend treat. It’s simple to slice up and store for later too. And if there’s a birthday or brunch on the calendar, it easily holds its own without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake

BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Three pulled pork sliders with coleslaw on a white plate, topped with a sprig of parsley.
BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a great dinner idea, make BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw. They’re casual, easy to eat, and great for sharing. Add some chips or fries, and you’re ready for the table. These sliders are a guaranteed dinner win.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A quick fix for lunches or dinners is Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. It’s easy to pack for a meal on-the-go or serve as a side dish. Prep some ahead, and you’ll have a reliable option ready all week. It’s laid-back but still feels put together.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Pizza Bagels

Pizza bagels on parchment paper, one with a bite out of it and a jar of BBQ sauce nearby.
Pizza Bagels. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Need a lunch or dinner idea that works every time? Go with Pizza Bagels. They’re crazy easy to make and super kid-friendly. Toss in a side salad, and you’ve got a complete meal. Works for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or whenever you just want something that gets eaten without a single complaint.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Bagels

Creamy Banana Avocado Bread Recipe

Sliced loaf of chocolate chip banana avocado bread on a white surface. The bread has a golden-brown crust with chocolate chips on top and visible throughout the slices.
Creamy Banana Avocado Bread Recipe. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Change things up with Creamy Banana Avocado Bread. It’s great as an afternoon snack or even breakfast with a little spread. Slice it up and pack it for school lunches too. It’s a good way to sneak in something unique.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Banana Avocado Bread Recipe

Chicken Shawarma

Close-up of a wrap filled with grilled chicken, lettuce, cucumber, red onion, and sauce in a folded flatbread.
Chicken Shawarma. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add variety to your meals with Chicken Shawarma. It’s a great way to have something different for dinner or a packed lunch. Pair it with rice or a wrap for easy serving. Flexible and flavorful, it keeps things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma

Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For mornings on the rush, Egg Bites are a must. They’re small, portable, and packed with everything you need to start the day. Make a batch on Sunday, and you’re set for the week. It’s breakfast minus the stress.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Ham and Swiss Sliders

Two ham and cheese sliders on seeded buns are placed on parchment paper. Bright green parsley is visible in the background.
Ham and Swiss Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Keep it easy with Ham and Swiss Sliders. They’re great for school lunches, dinners, or even parties. Bake up a tray in no time and watch them disappear. Filling, easy, and always a crowd favorite. Perfect when you need something quick that still feels like a win.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Swiss Sliders

Chocolate Chip Cookies

A hand holding a chocolate chip cookie on a cooling rack.
Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Everyone loves when I bake Chocolate Chip Cookies because they’re such a go-to for a sweet treat. They’re perfect for a lunchbox or an after-school snack. These cookies always hit the spot when you’re craving something soft and sweet. Plus, they’re quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chicken Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken pieces, croutons, and grated cheese on a bed of romaine lettuce. Dressing is served on the side.
Chicken Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Salads don’t always sound like fun, but throw in Chicken Caesar Salad, and it changes the game. It’s fresh, hearty, and just what you need during a packed day. Whether it’s served in a bowl or wrapped up, it’s ridiculously convenient. Best of all, it’s one of those meals everyone agrees on.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad

Cheese Quesadilla

A person lifts a cheesy quesadilla slice from a wooden board. Nearby are bowls of guacamole and salsa on a light-colored table.
Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

As a quick fix, Cheese Quesadilla is unbeatable. Perfectly melty and fulfilling, it’s the kind of meal that works anytime. It’s quick to make, easy to serve, and ideal for little hands. Pair it with something simple, and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Quesadilla

Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Close-up of spiral lemon poppy seed cookies drizzled with white icing and garnished with lemon zest.
Earl Grey Lemon Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you want a little twist to your cookie game, Earl Grey Lemon Cookies come through. They’re light, aromatic, and a great balance of sweet and citrusy. They’re an upgrade from regular cookies but still simple enough to keep kids happy. These are so good, they might become a weekly thing.
Get the Recipe: Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Philly Cheesesteak

A sandwich roll filled with grilled steak strips, melted cheese, green bell peppers, and onions on parchment paper.
Philly Cheesesteak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re craving something hearty, Philly Cheesesteak is the answer. Juicy, cheesy, and packed into a roll, it’s a serious comfort food option. It’s like having a diner-quality meal straight from your own kitchen. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it keeps everyone full and happy.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Close-up of folded tortillas filled with chicken, cheese, and herbs, garnished with cilantro.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need something fun, Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas always deliver. Packed with just the right amount of creaminess and heat, they hit that sweet spot. They’re easy to make and disappear fast when you put them out. Calling these a crowd-pleaser is putting it lightly.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

A Copycat Chipotle burrito bowl, filled with rice, fajita veggies, corn salsa, tortilla chips. and topped with a lime wedge.
Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those who love to customize, Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl nails it. It’s so easy to pack it with toppings everyone likes. Great for meal prep or dinner, it’s one of those meals that works all week long. It’s both convenient and totally worth making from scratch.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Close-up of beef and cheese sliders with toasted buns on a white surface.
Philly Cheesesteak Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For game day or a quick meal, Philly Cheesesteak Sliders work like a charm. They’re small but packed with all the cheesiness and flavor you expect. They’re made to be shared, but let’s be real, you’ll want extras for yourself. These have a way of becoming the star of any table.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Vegetarian Shepherds Pie

A cast iron skillet filled with vegetable shepherd's pie, topped with mashed potatoes and garnished with rosemary sprigs and chopped parsley. Two spoons are placed inside.
Vegetarian Shepherds Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Meatless meals aren’t boring with Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie. Warm, filling, and just as good as the original, it’s the perfect way to sneak in some veggies. It’s a comfort meal that’s as satisfying as its meaty counterpart. Serve it up, and no one will miss the meat.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Shepherds Pie

Crunchwrap Supreme

Three folded tortillas filled with seasoned ground meat, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese.
Crunchwrap Supreme. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When cravings hit hard, Crunchwrap Supreme is where it’s at. It’s beyond convenient and makes for the ultimate handheld meal. Layers on layers make this a lunch or dinner worth repeating. Once you’ve made it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Cheeseburger

A cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, and ketchup on a plate. A bowl of lettuce is in the background.
Cheeseburger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes, keeping it classic is best, and Cheeseburger proves that true. With melty cheese and perfectly cooked patties, it’s always a go-to. It’s hearty enough for dinner but also works for a quick lunch. Add your favorite toppings, and it’s everybody’s favorite all over again.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

Corn Fritters

A stack of savory pancakes topped with a dollop of cream and chopped green onions, served on a plate with a bowl of dipping sauce nearby.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple ideas like Corn Fritters are game-changers. Warm and slightly crispy, they’re a perfect side or snack that works with so many meals. Kids especially like them, and they’re portable enough to take anywhere. They’ve got that handmade touch to brighten up any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Grilled Cheese

Close-up of two stacked grilled cheese sandwiches made with multigrain bread and melted cheese oozing out.
Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Nostalgia and practicality meet with Grilled Cheese, and you can’t go wrong. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s always a winner. Kids and adults love it, so it’s a no-brainer during busy weeks. Pair it with soup, or just enjoy it solo, either way, it’s awesome.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cheese

Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potato topped with black beans, corn, avocado, sliced jalapeños, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, with lime slices on the side.
Southwest Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For something hearty and packed with bold ingredients, Southwest Sweet Potatoes come through every time. They’re great as a side or a full meal on their own. Packed to the brim with topping options, they never get boring. Whether for dinner or meal prep, they’re a smart pick.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

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