(BPT) - The back-to-school season brings major transitions that can make daily meal prep feel overwhelming. With tighter schedules, busier days and bigger appetites, there's often little time left for planning or preparing elaborate meals and snacks. The good news? With a few smart strategies and convenient options, you can still serve up satisfying, comforting and easy-to-make meals and snacks to keep the whole family fueled during this busy time of year.
Follow these tips and recipes to make settling into your new routine easier and more enjoyable.
Freeze ahead (and make the most of weekend prep)
Use weekends to get ahead for the week and beyond. Prepare double batches of family favorites that freeze well - think casseroles, chili, soups or stews. Be sure to let the food cool completely before freezing. For convenience, portion meals into single servings using freezer-friendly bags or containers, then label and date each one. While you're in the kitchen, prep a few versatile basics like grilled chicken, roasted vegetables or chopped fruit that can be used in a variety of meals throughout the week. With both freezer staples and fresh prepped ingredients on hand, you'll simplify weekday meals and cut down on stress.
Choose snacks that make busy days easier
Busy days call for snacks that are quick, satisfying and kid-approved. Bob Evans Single-Serve Macaroni & Cheese and Mashed Potatoes are the perfect solution for after-school cravings or a quick bite between activities. Ready in minutes with no prep or clean-up, these single-serve cups bring ultimate comfort in a convenient snackable size.
Fuel up with breakfast
Starting the day with a wholesome breakfast helps kids (and parents) stay energized and focused through the morning rush. Bob Evans Liquid Egg Whites offer a quick and protein-rich option - just pour and cook for fluffy scrambles, omelets or muffin cups. With no separating or mess, they make it easy to whip up a balanced breakfast even on hectic school mornings.
Meals that fit your schedule
Whether you're feeding a hungry crew after school or looking for a quick meal everyone will enjoy, these simple, satisfying recipes are perfect for busy schedules and big appetites.
A versatile and protein-rich breakfast recipe that will nourish the whole family.
Prep time: 20 minutes; cook time: 20 minutes; servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups Bob Evans Liquid Egg Whites
- 1/2 cup 2% small curd cottage cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 cup chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- 4-ounce container crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 300° F.
2. Blend egg whites, cottage cheese, salt, pepper and garlic powder in blender until smooth.
3. Divide tomatoes, goat cheese and basil among 12 lightly greased muffin cups.
4. Pour egg white mixture over tomato mixture.
5. Bake 20-25 minutes or until centers are set.
6. Let cool 10 minutes before removing from pan and enjoy! Garnish with additional crumbled goat cheese and fresh basil leaves (optional).
Spicy Hot Dog Macaroni & Cheese
A fun and easy dish combining two kid favorites for a quick and tasty meal.
Prep time: 15 minutes; cook time: 30 minutes; servings: 6
Ingredients
- 6 all-beef hot dogs
- 12 ounces Bob Evans Single-Serve Macaroni & Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup chopped pickled jalapeno peppers
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 1/2 cups kettle-cooked potato chips, lightly crushed
Instructions
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill hot dogs 4-5 minutes per side or until grill marks appear. Slice.
3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400° F.
4. Microwave macaroni and cheese according to package directions.
5. Spoon into large bowl.
6. Stir in shredded cheese, onions, peppers, chili powder, cumin and hot dogs.
7. Spoon mixture into 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
8. Sprinkle with crushed chips.
9. Bake 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
10. Cool and enjoy!
A creative and comforting twist on pizza that will make mealtime fun and delicious for the whole family.
Prep time: 20 minutes; cook time: 45 minutes; servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 4 pita bread rounds
- 12 ounces Bob Evans Single-Serve Original Mashed Potatoes
- 12 ounces broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Melt butter in large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion; cover and cook 15 minutes or until tender.
3. Uncover and increase heat to medium-high.
4. Cook, stirring constantly, until onions are golden brown. Stir in vinegar.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon in large skillet over medium heat until crisp; drain on paper towels.
6. Preheat oven to 400° F.
7. Microwave mashed potatoes according to package directions.
8. Spread over pita rounds and place on large, rimmed baking sheet.
9. Divide caramelized onions, broccoli, bacon and cheese over mashed potatoes.
10. Bake 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and pitas are golden. Enjoy!
Visit BobEvansGrocery.com to discover more back-to-school recipe inspiration.