Pizza may be the ol’ standby when it comes to meals for teenage groups. But that doesn’t mean youth leaders need to “stand by” and dial for delivery every week. School cafeterias serve pizza frequently, and many busy families now have a weekly pizza night too. So teens are likely as bored of pizza as you are. Plus, pizza isn’t exactly the healthiest option around.
What other meals for teenage groups can you assemble with minimal work and cost? Check out the “menu” below. Then be sure to share your ideas in the comments. Happy eating!
30 Pizza-Less Meals for Teenage Groups
- Sub sandwiches
- Crockpot sloppy joes
- Burrito or taco bar
- Nachos
- Hot dogs
- Pigs in blankets
- Spaghetti
- Mac and cheese
- Chicken wings
- Chicken nuggets
- Chili (or any soup)
- Baked potato bar
- Salad bar
- Ham and cheese sliders
- Pita sandwiches
- Make-your-own fruit kabobs
- Deli tray
- Cheesy breadsticks
- Bring-an-appetizer to share night
- Stir-fry
- Sheet pan fajitas
- Chili dogs
- Fondue
- Tortilla roll-ups
- Party meatballs (on toothpicks)
- Corn on the cob (cooked in a cooler!)
- Breakfast sandwiches
- Hashbrown casserole
- Waffle bar (especially great after a lock-in)
- Food truck (great for a special event)
And don’t forget dessert! Ideas for youth group treats include an ice cream sundae bar, cookie and ice cream sandwiches, strawberry shortcake, big-batch cookies, s’mores, and more.
Safety alert: Monitor the food allergies of your group members, and keep some alternatives handy at all times.
Pro Tip: Conversation and community-building are highlights of eating together as a youth group. So remember to engage participants in thought-provoking mealtime discussions. Click here for a list of 250 questions designed to spark great back-and-forth at your next youth meal.
Also incorporate plenty of physical activity in your youth group gatherings. By modeling a healthy lifestyle, youth leaders show teenagers the importance of caring for the body, which is God’s temple (1 Corinthians 6:19).
What meals for teenage groups have been a hit with your kids? Help us add to this yummy list!
