Randy Chandler
Grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and pizza are some of the most common cheese-based dishes served in school lunches. In the US, school lunches must adhere to strict nutrition standards, which can make it challenging for schools to serve traditional cheese-based dishes that comply with the regulations. However, schools are finding creative ways to include cheese in their menus, such as using reduced-sodium cheese sauce in macaroni and cheese or disguising the taste of whole grains in pizza with sauce and cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of dish | Macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, pizza, cheesecake |
| Cheese varieties | Cheddar, reduced-sodium cheese, whole milk cheese |
| Accompaniments | Tomato soup, cinnamon rolls, chocolate milk, tacos, burgers |
| Popularity | Grilled cheese and pizza are popular among students |
| Challenges | Meeting nutrition standards, student acceptance of whole-grain pasta |
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Grilled cheese sandwiches
To make grilled cheese sandwiches for a large group, such as a school lunch, a sheet pan can be used. First, lay down a sheet of parchment paper and cover it with slices of bread. Then, use a paint roller to apply melted butter to the bread. The sandwiches are then assembled with cheese between the slices of bread, and more butter is applied to the outside of the sandwiches before they are grilled on the sheet pan.
The type of cheese used for grilled cheese sandwiches can vary, but a sharp cheddar is a popular choice. The bread can also vary, with some schools using whole wheat bread to make the meal healthier. However, the traditional grilled cheese sandwich is made with thick slices of white bread and a generous amount of butter, creating a crispy and buttery texture.
While grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic school lunch option, they may be served at breakfast as well. They are often paired with chocolate milk, and some schools serve them with tomato soup, creating a classic combination. Grilled cheese sandwiches can also be served with variations, such as adding pepperoni and marinara sauce to create a pizza-style grilled cheese.
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Macaroni and cheese
In recent years, there have been efforts to make school lunches healthier, which has impacted the way macaroni and cheese is prepared in school cafeterias. For example, schools have been required to use whole-grain pasta and reduce the sodium content of the cheese sauce. These changes have not always been well-received by students, with some finding the whole-grain pasta unappetizing. However, with the easing of regulations, a more traditional version of macaroni and cheese with white flour pasta is making a comeback in school cafeterias.
Preparing macaroni and cheese for a school lunch involves cooking the pasta according to the package directions, usually in boiling salted water with a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. The cheese sauce is typically made by creating a roux with butter, flour, and milk, and then adding shredded cheese. The type of cheese can vary, with cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gouda, and Havarti being popular choices. To add extra creaminess to the sauce, some recipes call for evaporated milk or a few tablespoons of cream cheese.
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is prepared, they are combined and transferred to a baking dish. The dish is then topped with breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or crumbled potato chips for a crunchy texture. Some recipes also call for adding extra cheese on top. The baking dish is then placed in the oven and baked until the macaroni and cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
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Cheesy pizza
Pizza is a staple of school lunches, with one source noting that "Friday was pizza day—those were actually good". Pizza is also described as "the most popular item" on the school lunch menu.
Cheese pizza, in particular, is a favourite among students. While there are no specific details on the type of cheese used, it is likely that the pizza is made with a combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, which are commonly used in pizza recipes.
In addition to cheese pizza, other cheesy dishes served in school lunches include grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and cheese-topped tacos. Grilled cheese sandwiches are prepared by melting butter and cheese between slices of bread, resulting in a crispy and buttery treat. Macaroni and cheese, on the other hand, faced some challenges due to federal nutrition standards that mandated the use of whole-grain pasta and reduced-sodium cheese sauce, which was not well-received by students. However, with eased regulations, a more traditional version of macaroni and cheese with white flour pasta is making a comeback.
Cheese is also a popular ingredient in school lunches when paired with dishes like chilli and cinnamon rolls. Students have shared their experiences of enjoying grilled cheese sandwiches with tomato soup and topping their chilli with shredded cheese. These combinations create comforting and flavourful meals that are well-liked by students.
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Cheesecake
The dessert is also a great way to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients. For example, a strawberry cheesecake made with ripe, locally sourced strawberries can be a delicious and nutritious treat for students. By working with local producers, schools can take advantage of the freshest ingredients and support local businesses.
Additionally, cheesecakes are a cost-effective option for schools. They can be made in large quantities, making them an economical choice compared to other desserts. Furthermore, cheesecakes have a relatively long shelf life when stored properly, reducing the risk of waste and helping schools to manage their budgets effectively.
When creating a cheesecake for school lunches, it is essential to consider the balance of flavours and textures. The creaminess of the cheese layer should be complemented by a crisp base, and a tangy fruit topping can add a refreshing touch. It is also crucial to use high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the cheese itself, to ensure a rich and indulgent flavour.
In conclusion, cheesecake is a popular and versatile choice for school lunches. With careful planning and high-quality ingredients, schools can serve delicious cheesecakes that students will enjoy, providing a nutritious and indulgent treat.
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Cheese toppings
Cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of school lunch dishes, from sandwiches to soups to tacos. Here are some ideas for cheese toppings to add flavour and nutrition to school lunches:
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:
A classic grilled cheese sandwich is a popular choice for school lunches. To make it more interesting, try using sharp cheddar cheese as the filling. Simply butter some bread slices, toast them lightly, place the cheddar cheese between the slices, and grill until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. You can also add a twist to your grilled cheese by making it a Texas Straw Hat, which includes taco meat, lettuce, cheese, and sour cream on tortilla chips.
Pizza:
Pizza is a crowd favourite among students and can be made healthier by using whole-grain dough. Get creative with the toppings by adding various cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both. You can also offer a range of vegetable toppings to go along with the cheese, ensuring a balanced meal.
Macaroni and Cheese:
Macaroni and cheese is a comforting and filling option for school lunches. While it has faced some challenges due to nutritional standards, a traditional version made with white flour pasta and a cheesy sauce can be offered occasionally as a treat. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to find a healthier option that still tastes great.
Tacos:
Tacos are a fun and interactive lunch option. Offer cheese as a topping along with other ingredients like lettuce, salsa, and ground beef. Students can assemble their own tacos according to their preferences. This allows for customization and ensures that various dietary needs can be accommodated.
Chili:
Chili is a hearty and flavourful dish that can be served with a variety of cheese toppings. Offer shredded cheese as a garnish, allowing students to add as much or as little as they like. You can also suggest other toppings like crushed crackers or chopped onions to add texture and flavour to the chili.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheddar, in the form of grilled cheese sandwiches. Pizza, another common school lunch item, also contains cheese.
Yes, macaroni and cheese is another common school lunch item. However, due to federal nutrition standards, some schools have had to switch to using whole-grain pasta and reduced-sodium cheese sauce, which has been unpopular with students.
Yes, some schools serve sheet pan pizza sandwiches, which are similar to grilled cheese sandwiches but with added pepperoni and marinara sauce.
Yes, grilled cheese sandwiches are commonly served with tomato soup, and some schools also serve them with french fries.
Yes, some schools serve cheesecake as a dessert, such as strawberry cheesecake.
