Thermos Funtainer Hot Lunch Ideas For Kids

25 Thermos Funtainer Hot Lunch Ideas are about to revolutionize your midday meal! Are you tired of the same old sad desk lunches or the inevitable soggy sandwich? I know I was! That’s why I’m so thrilled to share this collection of delicious and heartwarming options designed specifically for your trusty Thermos Funtainer. Imagine the joy of opening your lunchbox to a steaming, flavourful meal, perfectly hot and ready to enjoy, no matter where your day takes you. These aren’t just meals; they’re little pockets of comfort and satisfaction that banish midday doldrums and power you through your afternoon. What makes these Thermos Funtainer hot lunch ideas so special is their versatility and how they bring restaurant-quality warmth and taste to your on-the-go lifestyle. Get ready to ditch the microwave queues and embrace a world of flavorful, satisfying hot lunches!

25 Thermos Funtainer Hot Lunch Ideas

Tired of the same old sandwich routine for your little ones’ lunches? As a busy parent myself, I understand the struggle of packing nutritious and appealing meals that will actually be enjoyed by lunchtime. That’s where the trusty Thermos Funtainer comes in! These insulated food jars are a game-changer, keeping food warm for hours and opening up a world of delicious hot lunch possibilities.

Forget sad, cold leftovers. With a little preparation and creativity, you can send your kids off to school with hearty, satisfying meals that will make them the envy of the lunchroom. From classic comfort foods to adventurous new flavors, this list of 25 Thermos Funtainer hot lunch ideas is designed to inspire and simplify your meal prep. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients:

• Pasta (various shapes like rotini, penne, macaroni)
• Tomato sauce or marinara
• Ground beef, turkey, or plant-based crumbles
• Cheese (shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• Chicken breast or thighs (cooked and shredded/diced)
• Broccoli florets
• Carrots (diced or shredded)
• Peas
• Rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
• Chicken broth or vegetable broth
• Beans (black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas)
• Corn
• Tortillas (flour or corn)
• Shredded chicken or beef
• Salsa
• Taco seasoning
• Soup (canned or homemade – tomato, chicken noodle, lentil, broccoli cheddar)
• Bread (for grilled cheese or croutons)
• Butter
• Potatoes (diced)
• Onions (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Cream cheese
• Milk
• Smoked sausage or kielbasa
• Sweet potatoes (diced)
• Spinach
• Eggs
• Bell peppers (diced)
• Kidney beans
• Diced tomatoes
• Chili seasoning
• Chicken sausages
• Pre-cooked rice noodles
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Ginger (grated)
• Broth
• Beef or chicken
• Curry powder
• Coconut milk
• Vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, cauliflower)
• Lentils
• Vegetable broth
• Diced tomatoes
• Spices (e.g., cumin, coriander)
• Cooked quinoa
• Black beans
• Corn
• Diced green chilies
• Cheese
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Rotisserie chicken (shredded)
• Mushroom gravy
• Biscuits (canned or homemade)
• Sausage gravy
• Frozen waffles
• Canned peaches or fruit cocktail
• Hot dog buns
• Mustard
• Ketchup
• Shredded chicken
• Pesto
• Pine nuts (optional)
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Pasta water
• Rice
• Butter
• Parmesan cheese
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Cooked shredded chicken
• Cream of chicken soup
• Frozen mixed vegetables
• Water chestnuts (optional)
• Soy sauce
• Cooked ground beef or turkey
• Rice
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Garlic powder
• Ginger powder
• Peas
• Carrots
• Corn
• Broth
• Pre-cooked chicken
• Rice
• Diced tomatoes
• Black beans
• Corn
• Taco seasoning
• Shredded cheese
• Chicken broth
• Cooked pasta
• Alfredo sauce
• Broccoli florets
• Cooked chicken breast (diced)
• Parmesan cheese
• Cooked rice
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Honey
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Broccoli florets
• Chicken or beef
• Cooked rice
• Curry paste
• Coconut milk
• Mixed vegetables
• Beef broth
• Cooked ground beef
• Pasta sauce
• Kidney beans
• Diced tomatoes
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Chicken broth
• Cooked rice
• Butter
• Chicken broth
• Shredded chicken
• Peas
• Carrots
• Corn
• Cream of chicken soup
• Breadcrumbs (optional)
• Cooked noodles
• Butter
• Milk
• Shredded cheese
• Broccoli florets
• Cooked chicken (diced)
• Chicken broth
• Cooked rice
• Chicken broth
• Diced chicken
• Diced carrots
• Diced celery
• Diced potatoes
• Diced onion
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary)
• Water
• Cooked chicken
• Cooked rice
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Honey
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Broccoli florets
• Cooked pasta
• Tomato sauce
• Mini meatballs (pre-cooked)
• Parmesan cheese
• Cooked rice
• Butter
• Chicken broth
• Cooked chicken
• Corn
• Peas
• Carrots
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Salt
• Pepper
• Shredded cheese

Cooking Instructions:

1. Mini Meatball Pasta Bake

This is a perennial favorite! Start by cooking your favorite pasta shape according to package directions. While the pasta is cooking, warm up some marinara sauce in a saucepan. If you’re using pre-cooked mini meatballs, add them to the sauce to heat through. Drain the pasta and combine it with the marinara sauce and meatballs. Transfer the mixture to your Thermos Funtainer. For an extra treat, sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top before sealing. This bakes up beautifully and stays warm for hours, making it a comforting and filling meal.

2. Chicken Noodle Soup & Mini Cornbread Muffins

Homemade or good quality store-bought chicken noodle soup is a perfect choice. Heat the soup thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave. Pour the hot soup into the Thermos Funtainer. To make it a complete meal, pack a couple of mini cornbread muffins on the side. These are easily made from a mix or from scratch and are the perfect dippers for the warm soup.

3. Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole

This is a winner for picky eaters! In a bowl, combine cooked shredded chicken, cooked rice, a can of cream of chicken soup, and a cup of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn work well). Add a splash of chicken broth for moisture and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. If you have them on hand, a handful of water chestnuts can add a nice crunch. Transfer this creamy casserole to your Thermos Funtainer. You can even top it with a sprinkle of shredded cheese before sealing for extra gooey goodness.

4. Shepherd’s Pie Cups

Individual servings of shepherd’s pie are adorable and practical. You’ll need cooked ground beef or turkey mixed with your favorite pasta sauce, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and a generous pinch of chili powder, cumin, onion powder, and garlic powder. Simmer this mixture until it’s thick and flavorful. In a separate pot, boil diced potatoes until tender, then mash them with a little butter, chicken broth, and seasonings. Once mashed, stir in some shredded cheese. Spoon the meat mixture into the bottom of your Thermos Funtainer, then top with the mashed potato layer. This creates a lovely two-layered meal that’s both hearty and delicious.

5. Taco Pasta Salad (Served Warm)

This is a fun twist on a classic! Cook your favorite pasta shape and drain it. In a skillet, brown ground beef or turkey with taco seasoning. Add a can of drained black beans, a can of drained corn, and some diced green chilies. Stir in a jar of salsa and heat through. Combine the cooked pasta with the taco meat mixture. Transfer this warm taco pasta salad to your Thermos Funtainer. A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top is always a good idea! The flavors meld together beautifully as it sits, making it even tastier by lunchtime.

6. Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

Cook your pasta of choice until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, steam some broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp. In a saucepan, warm up some Alfredo sauce. Add the drained pasta, steamed broccoli, and some cooked diced chicken breast to the sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly. For an extra boost of flavor, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese. Pour this creamy concoction into your Thermos Funtainer. The rich sauce and tender ingredients make for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

7. Honey Garlic Chicken & Rice Bowls

Cook rice according to package directions. While the rice is cooking, prepare your honey garlic chicken. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cut cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them in the sauce to coat. In a separate skillet, stir-fry some broccoli florets until tender-crisp. You can also add other favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. Once the rice is cooked, combine it with the honey garlic chicken and stir-fried vegetables in your Thermos Funtainer. This dish offers a wonderful balance of sweet and savory flavors.

8. Mild Chicken Curry with Rice

This is a great way to introduce your kids to new flavors. Cook rice according to package directions. In a saucepan, combine chicken broth, a can of coconut milk, and a tablespoon or two of mild curry powder (adjust to your child’s spice preference). Add diced cooked chicken and your favorite mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and cauliflower. Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded. Spoon the curry and rice into your Thermos Funtainer. The creamy coconut milk makes this curry rich and comforting.

9. Chili Macaroni**

A hearty and filling option, Chili Macaroni is a hit with kids. Cook your pasta of choice. In a pot, brown ground beef or turkey with chili powder, cumin, onion powder, and garlic powder. Add a can of drained kidney beans, a can of diced tomatoes, and enough chicken broth to create a saucy consistency. Simmer this chili mixture until it’s thick and flavorful. Combine the cooked pasta with the chili and stir well. Transfer this delicious blend to your Thermos Funtainer. It’s a complete meal in one convenient package.

10. Sausage & Veggie Rice Pilaf**

Start by cooking rice according to package directions, using chicken or vegetable broth for extra flavor. While the rice is cooking, slice and sauté some smoked sausage or kielbasa until lightly browned. In a bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed sausage, and a cup of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn are great choices). Stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything well. You can top this with a sprinkle of shredded cheese before sealing it in the Thermos Funtainer for a cheesy, savory delight.

These 25 ideas offer a fantastic starting point for your hot lunch adventures. Remember to always preheat your Thermos Funtainer with boiling water for at least 5-10 minutes before filling it with hot food. This helps maintain the temperature for longer. Enjoy experimenting and seeing your little ones’ happy faces when they discover a warm, delicious meal waiting for them!

Conclusion:

I hope these 25 Thermos Funtainer Hot Lunch Ideas have inspired you to pack exciting and delicious lunches for yourself or your loved ones! These recipes are fantastic because they offer a huge variety, ensuring there’s something for every palate and dietary need. From hearty soups and stews to comforting pasta dishes and even sweet treats, your Thermos Funtainer can become a portable gourmet kitchen. Remember, the key to a successful hot lunch is proper preparation – ensuring your food is heated thoroughly and your Thermos is pre-heated with boiling water. Don’t be afraid to get creative with these suggestions. For instance, you can easily adapt pasta dishes by swapping out proteins or vegetables, and soups can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices. These ideas are perfect for school lunches, office meals, or even weekend adventures. I truly encourage you to dive in and try a few of these Thermos Funtainer hot lunch ideas. You’ll be surprised at how satisfying and enjoyable a warm meal can be on the go!

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I keep my food piping hot in a Thermos Funtainer all day?

To ensure your food stays hot, pre-heat your Thermos Funtainer by filling it with boiling water and letting it sit for at least 5-10 minutes. Before adding your hot food, empty the boiling water. Then, fill the Thermos with food that has been heated to a high temperature, ideally above 165°F (74°C).

Can I pack leftovers in my Thermos Funtainer?

Absolutely! Leftovers are a perfect candidate for Thermos Funtainer lunches. Just make sure they are reheated thoroughly before packing. Think about pasta bakes, chili, curry, or even shepherd’s pie – these all transform beautifully into a delicious and warming packed meal.

Are these recipes suitable for picky eaters?

Many of these recipes can be adapted for picky eaters! Simple pasta with marinara, mac and cheese, or chicken noodle soup are often kid-approved favorites. You can also pack familiar flavors and textures, like plain rice with a side of stir-fried vegetables, allowing them to assemble their meal.

25 Thermos Funtainer Hot Lunch Ideas

A collection of delicious and easy hot lunch ideas perfect for filling a Thermos Funtainer, keeping meals warm and enjoyable for school or outings.

Prep Time
15 Minutes

Cook Time
20 Minutes

Total Time
35 Minutes

Servings
1 serving

Ingredients

• Chicken broth
• Cooked pasta
• Shredded chicken
• Frozen peas
• Butter
• Milk
• Flour
• Salt
• Pepper
• Ground turkey
• Diced tomatoes
• Black beans
• Corn
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Cooked rice
• Broccoli florets
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Ground beef
• Kidney beans
• Tomato sauce
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Cooked lentils
• Carrots

Instructions

1. Step 1
   For noodle soup, heat chicken broth and add cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2
   To make a simple mac and cheese, combine cooked pasta with a sauce made from melted butter, milk, and flour. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
3. Step 3
   Prepare a turkey chili by simmering ground turkey with diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, and garlic powder. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
4. Step 4
   Create a cheesy chicken and rice dish by mixing cooked rice with shredded chicken and steamed broccoli florets. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Step 5
   Make a beef and bean stew with ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer until heated through.
6. Step 6
   Heat lentil soup with cooked lentils, chopped carrots, and a flavorful vegetable broth. Season to taste.
7. Step 7
   Warm up leftover spaghetti with marinara sauce and meatballs (if available).
8. Step 8
   Prepare a chicken noodle casserole by mixing cooked egg noodles with shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and a sprinkle of cheese.
9. Step 9
   Heat up mini corn dogs or chicken nuggets for a fun and easy option.
10. Step 10
    Warm individual portions of shepherd’s pie, ensuring the mashed potato topping is heated thoroughly.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.