5 Easy-Prep Sandwich-Free Lunches

Updated on 8/25/2015 at 6:00 AM

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POPSUGAR Photography | Sarah Lipoff

Not all kids are partial to a classic PB&J, making putting together lunches somewhat of a challenge. And with many schools sticking with a nut-free policy, it's important to get creative with nonsandwich lunch bags that feature all the things your kids love. The combinations are fun and healthy — and don't require any more effort than slathering peanut butter and jelly on whole wheat, making for a midday meal your child will definitely gobble up.

Pizza Waffles

Surprise your child with a lunch that looks like breakfast — until he takes a bite! It's a lunch that your child will ask for over and over and over again. Mine does. Check out the recipe.

Mac and Cheese Cups

This is another quick and easy lunch that also makes use of leftover macaroni and cheese. Bake in muffin tins and then pop the mac and cheese cups in lunches for a big surprise.

Chicamole

My daughter loves guacamole, which made this recipe a no-brainer as a sandwich-free lunch alternative. Mix equal amounts of your favorite guacamole with shredded chicken and scoop over a leaf of romaine. Pack with tortilla chips, sliced cucumber, baby carrots, and cherry tomatoes. Yum.

Ham and Pickle Sushi

Use honey whole-wheat bread as the base for making sushi rolls with ham and pickles. Cut the crusts off bread then roll flat. Spread with cream cheese, add a slice of ham, and add a few sliced gherkins. Roll up and slice for fun bites. Pack with chopsticks for an exciting lunch.

Mini Taco Cups

Made for little fingers, these mini taco cups are a must make for burrito-lovers. Filled with refried beans, cheese, and whatever toppings your child loves, these mini tacos are easy to bake up for lunches all week.