12 School Lunches You Either Loved or Hated in the ’80s
School lunches in the 1980s were frequently a mix of classic favorites and unique creations that elicited strong reactions from students. Some meals became decade-long staples, while others were quickly dismissed as dreaded parts of the school day.
- Tricia Quitales
- 4 min read
School lunches in the 1980s were a memorable part of every child’s day, from the comfort of a warm hot dog to the confusion of an unfamiliar dish. For many, these meals were either beloved or dreaded, and those who grew up in the 1980s still talk about them nostalgically. In this article, we’ll look at 12 classic school lunches from that era, some of which became iconic favorites and others that made students wish for a quick escape. These meals, whether you loved them or hated them, were a part of the unforgettable 1980s school experience.
1. Sloppy Joes
Tomwsulcer on Wikimedia
Sloppy Joes were a hit or miss for most kids in the 1980s. The messy, saucy meat on a bun was either loved for its flavorful taste or despised for its unavoidable messiness. Regardless of opinions, they became a school lunch staple, especially when combined with potato chips.
2. Tater Tot Casserole
THMoore on Wikimedia
Tater Tot Casserole was a unique dish that combined crispy tater tots, ground beef, and a creamy sauce. Some kids loved the crunchy tots with the savory mix, while others found them unappealing. It was a lunchroom favorite among those who enjoyed the comforting flavors.
3. Pizza Squares
Daderot on Wikimedia
Unlike today’s round personal pizzas, ’80s pizza squares were served in large, rectangular slices. These pizzas were often bland and topped with basic cheese and tomato sauce, but they were the highlight of some people’s lunch. They were beloved for their simplicity but despised for their lack of flavor.
4. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches
Evan-Amos on Wikimedia
Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches were a popular lunch choice for many kids in the 1980s. Simple and dependable, they were either a favorite daily treat or something to avoid for kids who disliked the sticky texture. They were simple to pack and generally well-received when served with chips or fruit.
5. Hot Dogs
Renee Comet on Wikimedia
Hot dogs were a popular choice for school lunches in the 1980s. They were quick to prepare and easy to eat, but the flavor varied depending on the quality of the meat. Some people enjoyed a hot dog with mustard, while others found it bland or of questionable meat quality.
6. Fish Sticks
Lloyd Mitchel Guanzon on pexels
Many students found fish sticks a contentious lunch choice. Some loved the crispy coating and mild flavor, but others couldn’t get past the texture or taste of the fish. Fish sticks were frequently served with tartar sauce, which could either improve or detract from their flavor.
7. Macaroni and Cheese
Judgefloro on Wikimedia
Mac and cheese was a comforting and creamy lunch option that many ’80s kids enjoyed. This cheesy dish, whether homemade or from a frozen box, was popular among those seeking comfort food. However, some children thought the processed version was too bland or heavy to eat on a regular basis.
8. Chicken Nugget Day
Patrick on pexels
Chicken Nugget Day was a much-anticipated event where kids could eat crispy, breaded chicken pieces with dipping sauce. Nuggets were popular among the crowd due to their crispy texture and delicious flavor. However, some students despised the mystery meat used in the nuggets and found them unappealing.
9. Canned Spaghetti
Archie Binamira on pexels
Canned spaghetti was another lunch item that divided opinion. For some, the sweet tomato sauce and squishy noodles were a familiar and comforting combination. Others, however, avoided the meal due to the slimy texture of the noodles and the overly sweet sauce.
10. Corn Dogs
an wen on Pexels
With their battered exterior and hot dog filling, corn dogs were a rare school lunchtime favorite. They were popular among children because of their portability and snack-like nature. Some, however, were put off by the greasy coating or the mismatch between the breading and the hot dog.
11. Chili with Cornbread
Len Rizzi on Wikimedia
Chili with cornbread was a hearty, warming meal ideal for cooler weather. Chili was popular among those who liked savory, spicy flavors, and it was frequently served with a soft, buttery piece of cornbread on the side. However, some children found the chili too spicy, and the cornbread was simply too dry.
12. Fruit Cocktail
Yan Krukau on pexels
Fruit cocktail in a can was a common dessert or side dish at many school lunches. While some children enjoyed the sugary syrup and sweet fruit mix, others disliked the overly sweet and mushy texture. It was one of those side dishes that could either be considered a treat or a waste of lunch space.