11 Fun Back to School Bento Box Ideas

creative bento lunch ideas

Rainbow Veggie Wrap Bento

vibrant veggie wrap lunch

The Rainbow Veggie Wrap Bento is a healthy and vibrant lunch option that’s perfect for back to school. This dish combines colorful vegetables and a tasty spread, all wrapped up in a whole grain tortilla, making it both visually appealing and delicious. Packed with nutrients, these wraps not only keep lunchtime interesting but also provide a fun way to enjoy a variety of veggies.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole grain tortillas 2
Hummus or cream cheese 1/2 cup
Red bell pepper 1, sliced
Carrot 1, shredded
Cucumber 1, sliced
Spinach leaves 1 cup
Yellow bell pepper 1, sliced
Avocado 1, sliced
Olive oil 1 tbsp
Lemon juice 1 tsp
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Spread a layer of hummus or cream cheese over each whole grain tortilla.
  2. Layer the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, cucumber, shredded carrot, spinach leaves, and avocado evenly on each tortilla.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Roll the tortillas tightly, then slice them in half to create pinwheels.
  5. Pack the wrap halves in a bento box along with a side of fresh fruit or veggie sticks for a complete meal.
Sale
Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...
  • The Original Pro Chopper - Our superstar veggie slicer has been creating waves on TikTok! Simple to use,...
  • Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades - Our vegetable chopper is perfect for anyone who wants to eat...
  • 5-Star Design - The soft-grip TPU handle ensures controlled chopping, while the non-skid rubber base...

Fruit and Yogurt Parfait Box

fruit yogurt parfait recipe

The Fruit and Yogurt Parfait Box is a delightful and nutritious lunch option that combines layers of creamy yogurt, fresh fruits, and crunchy granola. This easy-to-make dish is not only visually stunning but also provides a wholesome balance of protein, vitamins, and carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for kids heading back to school.

Ingredients Quantity
Greek yogurt 2 cups
Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) 1 cup
Banana 1, sliced
Granola 1 cup
Honey or maple syrup 2 tbsp
Chia seeds (optional) 1 tbsp

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a cup or small bowl, start with a layer of Greek yogurt at the bottom.
  2. Add a layer of mixed berries on top of the yogurt.
  3. Follow with a sprinkle of granola and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
  4. Repeat the layers until the container is filled, finishing with a layer of fruit and a sprinkle of chia seeds if desired.
  5. Pack in a bento box with a side of additional fruit or a small spoon for enjoying the parfait!
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...
  • Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get...
  • Premium Material : All parts of the rotary cheese grater are made of food grade ABS material, no BPA. The...
  • Three Option Grater : The parmesan cheese grater finishes food preparation with slicing, shredding and...

Sushi Roll Bento

sushi roll bento preparation

The Sushi Roll Bento is a fun and creative way to introduce your child to the world of sushi, without the raw fish! Perfect for back to school lunches, these sushi rolls can be filled with a variety of ingredients like fresh vegetables, crab sticks, or avocado. With a little bit of preparation, you can create a bento box that is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making lunchtime exciting for your child.

Ingredients Quantity
Sushi rice 1 cup
Rice vinegar 2 tbsp
Nori sheets 4 sheets
Cucumber 1, julienned
Carrot 1, julienned
Avocado 1, sliced
Imitation crab sticks 1 package
Soy sauce To taste
Sesame seeds 1 tbsp (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then cook according to package instructions.
  2. Once cooked, mix the rice vinegar into the rice to season it. Allow it to cool slightly.
  3. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat or a clean surface, and spread a layer of sushi rice over it, leaving a small margin at the top.
  4. Arrange cucumber, carrot, avocado, and imitation crab sticks in a line along the bottom of the rice-covered nori.
  5. Roll the sushi tightly, using the mat for support, and seal the edge with a little water.
  6. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces.
  7. Pack the sushi rolls in a bento box with a small container of soy sauce for dipping and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added flavor!
Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...
  • 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage...
  • ✅ POWERFUL, QUICK & EASY TO USE: Simply press the button to start. The device vacuum seals a bag in 5...
  • ♻️ REUSABLE & RESEALABLE BAGS: Chef Preserve comes with dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, and...

Mini Pancake Stack Bento

mini pancake bento delight

The Mini Pancake Stack Bento is a delightful and playful way to enjoy breakfast for lunch! These small, fluffy pancakes are a hit among kids and can be easily customized with toppings and sides. Served in a bento box, they make lunchtime feel special and can be paired with fresh fruits and a sweet dipping sauce, making it a balanced and satisfying meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Pancake mix 1 cup
Egg 1
Milk ¾ cup
Butter 2 tbsp (melted)
Maple syrup For drizzling
Fresh berries 1 cup (mixed)
Chocolate chips ¼ cup (optional)
Whipped cream For topping

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, combine pancake mix, egg, milk, and melted butter until just mixed; stir in chocolate chips if using.
  2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour small amounts of batter to form mini pancakes.
  3. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
  4. Stack pancakes in threes and drizzle with maple syrup.
  5. Pack the mini pancake stacks in a bento box alongside fresh berries and a small container of whipped cream for dipping!
Sale
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...
  • Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
  • Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
  • Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks

DIY Taco Bento

build your own tacos

The DIY Taco Bento is a fun and interactive lunch option that brings all the flavors of tacos into a bento box! This customizable dish allows kids to build their own tacos, making it a hands-on meal that can cater to individual tastes. By including a variety of fresh toppings and fillings, the DIY Taco Bento guarantees a delicious and nutritious lunchtime experience.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef or turkey 1 lb
Taco seasoning 1 packet (or to taste)
Taco shells or tortillas 4-6
Shredded lettuce 1 cup
Diced tomatoes 1 cup
Shredded cheese 1 cup
Sliced olives ½ cup
Salsa For dipping
Sour cream For topping
Avocado (sliced) 1 (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Cook the ground beef or turkey in a pan over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
  2. Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water; simmer for a few minutes until well combined.
  3. While the meat is cooking, prepare the toppings: wash and chop lettuce, tomatoes, and slice olives and avocado.
  4. Pack the taco shells or tortillas in the bento box with the seasoned meat and all prepared toppings in separate containers.
  5. Include small portions of salsa and sour cream for dipping and packing, guaranteeing a delightful taco-building experience at lunch!
Sale
Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Lids Ideal for Lunch Meal Prep &...
  • 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches
  • Crystal-clear Tritan Built: Stain-resistant and odor-resistant material for a clear view of contents
  • Lightweight & Sturdy: Easy to carry, yet durable for everyday use

Pasta Salad Delight

colorful pasta salad delight

The Pasta Salad Delight is a colorful and nutritious bento box option that provides a rejuvenating mix of flavors and textures. Perfect for back-to-school lunches, this dish combines cooked pasta with vibrant vegetables, protein, and a zesty dressing, making it a delightful choice for kids and adults alike. It’s quick to prepare and can be easily customized to suit individual tastes.

Ingredients Quantity
Pasta (rotini or penne) 2 cups (uncooked)
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup, halved
Cucumber 1, diced
Bell pepper 1, diced
Black olives ½ cup, sliced
Cooked chicken or chickpeas 1 cup, diced
Feta cheese ½ cup, crumbled
Olive oil ¼ cup
Red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons
Italian seasoning 1 tablespoon
Fresh basil (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and let cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, black olives, and cooked chicken or chickpeas.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning; pour over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
  4. Gently fold in feta cheese and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
  5. Pack the pasta salad into a bento box, making sure to keep it chilled until lunchtime for the best flavor!
Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...
  • 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units...
  • 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: Accurately weighs up to 11 lb/5 kg with 1 g...
  • 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 & 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: The small and sleek scale is a perfect fit for...

Cheese and Crackers Picnic Box

cheese and crackers picnic

The Cheese and Crackers Picnic Box is a fun and versatile bento box option ideal for back-to-school lunches. This dish is perfect for kids, allowing them to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures without the need for cooking. With an assortment of cheeses, crackers, and some fresh fruit and veggies, this picnic-style meal is not only easy to assemble but also visually appealing, making it an exciting choice for lunchtime.

Ingredients Quantity
Assorted cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda) 8 ounces, sliced
Whole grain crackers 1 box
Grapes 1 cup
Baby carrots 1 cup
Hummus or ranch dressing ½ cup
Sliced apple or pear 1 medium
Mixed nuts (optional) ¼ cup

Assembly Steps:

  1. Arrange sliced cheeses on one section of the bento box.
  2. Add whole grain crackers next to the cheese.
  3. Fill one section with grapes and baby carrots.
  4. Include a small container with hummus or ranch dressing for dipping.
  5. Finish by adding sliced apple or pear and mixed nuts in the remaining section for added crunch. Enjoy this delightful and simple lunch!
Sale
Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Food Thermometer for Cooking and Grilling...
  • Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced,...
  • Multi-Use | From bbq thermometer to baking thermometer, our digital food thermometer for cooking is...
  • Easy-Read Digital Thermometer For Cooking | Large instant thermometer dial with bright blue backlight...

Breakfast-for-Lunch Bento

breakfast favorites for lunch

The Breakfast-for-Lunch Bento is a delightful and hearty option that allows you to enjoy classic breakfast favorites at lunch. This dish combines scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, whole grain toast, and fresh fruit, making it a nutritional powerhouse that will keep your child energized throughout the school day.

Ingredients Quantity
Eggs 4 large
Milk 2 tablespoons
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Pepper ¼ teaspoon
Bacon 4 strips
Whole grain bread 2 slices
Butter 1 tablespoon
Fresh fruit (berries, banana slices) 1 cup

Assembly Steps:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy; remove and drain on paper towels.
  3. Pour egg mixture into the same skillet and scramble until fully cooked.
  4. Toast whole grain bread with butter in the skillet until golden brown.
  5. Assemble the bento by adding scrambled eggs, bacon, toast, and a portion of fresh fruit in the bento box. Enjoy!
Sale
Home Hero 54-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Utensils Set - Heat-Resistant Nonstick Silicone &...
  • Versatile 54-Piece Collection: Elevate your kitchen with the Home Hero 54-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set, a...
  • Durable and Long-Lasting: Crafted from premium stainless steel, these kitchen utensils are designed to...
  • Perfect Holiday Gift: Delight your loved ones with this kitchen utensils gift set this festive season....

Protein Power Bento

protein rich children s lunch

The Protein Power Bento is a fantastic way to pack a punch of nutrition into your child’s lunch. This bento features a variety of protein-rich foods including grilled chicken strips, hard-boiled eggs, Greek yogurt, and a healthy side of nuts. Together, these ingredients will provide sustained energy and keep your child feeling full and focused throughout their school day.

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken breast 1 medium (150g)
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Pepper ¼ teaspoon
Eggs 2 large
Greek yogurt ½ cup
Mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts) ¼ cup
Fresh fruit (apple slices or grapes) 1 cup

Assembly Steps:

  1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breast with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill until cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Let cool and slice into strips.
  2. Boil eggs in water for 9-10 minutes. Once done, cool in ice water, peel, and slice in half.
  3. In a bento box, add grilled chicken strips, hard-boiled egg halves, Greek yogurt, a portion of mixed nuts, and fresh fruit.
  4. Seal the bento and store it in the refrigerator until it’s time for lunch!
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, Great...
  • 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle with a FreeSip spout and push-button lid with lock
  • Patented FreeSip spout designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to...
  • Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock

Veggie and Hummus Dipper Box

healthy veggie dip box

The Veggie and Hummus Dipper Box is a vibrant and healthy lunch option that makes eating vegetables fun for kids. This bento box combines an array of crunchy, colorful veggies with a delicious, creamy hummus dip. Perfect for school, this dish promotes healthy snacking while ensuring your child gets their daily servings of vegetables.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots (baby or sliced) 1 cup
Cucumber (sliced) 1 cup
Bell peppers (sliced, mixed colors) 1 cup
Celery sticks 1 cup
Hummus ½ cup
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup
Whole grain crackers ½ cup

Assembly Steps:

  1. Wash and cut all vegetables into sticks or bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a bento box, arrange the carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, celery, and cherry tomatoes in separate compartments.
  3. Spoon hummus into a small section of the bento box and add whole grain crackers beside it.
  4. Seal the bento box and keep it refrigerated until lunchtime!

Sweet Treat Bento

sweet and healthy lunch

The Sweet Treat Bento is a delightful and fun way to satisfy a sweet tooth while keeping lunchtime exciting. This bento box features a combination of healthy and sweet options that appeal to kids. With fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, and a touch of granola bars, this treat offers a balanced yet indulgent lunch that’s perfect for back-to-school meals.

Ingredients Quantity
Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) 1 cup
Greek yogurt (plain or flavored) ½ cup
Granola ¼ cup
Honey or maple syrup (optional) 1 tbsp
Granola bars (cut into pieces) 1-2 bars
Chocolate chips (optional) 2 tbsp

Assembly Steps:

  1. Wash and prepare mixed berries, slicing larger fruits as necessary.
  2. In a bento box, place a portion of Greek yogurt in one compartment.
  3. Add the mixed berries surrounding the yogurt.
  4. Sprinkle granola on top of the yogurt and drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired.
  5. Include pieces of granola bars and a few chocolate chips in separate sections of the box.
  6. Seal the bento box and refrigerate until ready to serve!

Amazon disclaimer.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Follow:
Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.