Getting a healthy and delicious meal on the table can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to pleasing the picky palates of kids. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll share 20 quick and easy kid-friendly dinner recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From cheesy baked chicken tenders to taco stuffed sweet potatoes, these recipes are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients your kids will love. And the best part? They’re all super simple to make, so you can spend more time enjoying mealtime with your little ones and less time slaving away in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for some inspiration for quick and easy meals, these recipes are sure to become staples in your household. So without further ado, let’s dive into our list of 20 kid-friendly dinner recipes that are guaranteed to please even the most discerning eaters!
Cheesy Baked Chicken Tenders
Get ready to enjoy a deliciously crispy and cheesy snack with our Cheesy Baked Chicken Tenders recipe! This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender in the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tenders.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tenders.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Pizza Bagels
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 12 mini bagels
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Slice the mini bagels in half and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce onto each bagel half.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Add your desired toppings.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Hidden Veggies
This comforting macaroni dish is packed with nutritious veggies that will go undetected by even the pickiest eaters. With a blend of sharp cheddar, creamy milk, and cooked veggies, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups mixed veggies (such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers), finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped veggies and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, whisk together flour and milk. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, veggie mixture, and cheese in a large bowl. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas
Looking for a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner? Look no further! These Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas are an easy-to-make, flavorful twist on the classic Mexican dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless turkey breast, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the sliced turkey and shredded cheese.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the turkey-cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
Spaghetti with Hidden Carrot Tomato Sauce
This creative take on traditional spaghetti sauce adds a boost of nutrition and flavor from hidden carrots. The sweet and savory flavors blend seamlessly, making it a perfect dish for the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine grated carrots, crushed tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Simmer the sauce over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti and sauce. Toss to coat.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Chicken Nuggets
A classic kid-friendly favorite gets a homemade makeover with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create crispy and delicious chicken nuggets that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with a little vegetable oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and shredded cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and stir until smooth.
4. Pour the milk mixture into the rice mixture and mix well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes meet tacos in this delicious twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup taco meat (ground beef, turkey, or veggies)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, heat taco meat in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Stuff each sweet potato with black beans, taco meat, and shredded cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Add desired toppings and serve.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups
Sweet and satisfying, these roll-ups are a perfect snack or breakfast on-the-go. Made with ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and crispy tortillas, they’re easy to make and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 4-6 whole wheat tortillas
– Optional: honey or chopped nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and slice them into 1-inch pieces.
2. Spread 1-2 tsp of peanut butter onto each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Place 2-3 banana slices in the center of each tortilla.
4. Roll up the tortillas tightly but gently, applying even pressure to avoid breaking the bananas.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Optional: Drizzle with honey or sprinkle with chopped nuts before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These roll-ups are ready to eat straight away.
Mini Meatloaf Muffins
A twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, these bite-sized muffins are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. Ground beef and pork are mixed with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings, then baked in mini muffin tins to create individual servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork. Add breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide mixture evenly among mini muffin tins.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of each muffin during the last 2 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rainbow Veggie Wraps
Get creative with this colorful wrap recipe that’s packed with nutritious veggies and flavorful hummus. Perfect for a quick snack or lunch on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of whole wheat tortilla wraps
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced yellow carrot
– 1/4 cup sliced green cucumber
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Spread a tablespoon of hummus on the center of each tortilla wrap.
2. Arrange the black beans, red bell pepper, yellow carrot, and green cucumber slices around the hummus in a rainbow pattern.
3. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roll up the wraps tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just 5 minutes.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Rainbow Veggie Wraps!
Cheesy Spinach Pasta Shells
This recipe adds a nutritious spin to traditional pasta shells by incorporating spinach and a blend of melted cheeses. The result is a rich, comforting dish perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheesy spinach mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Get ready to serve up a crowd-pleasing snack with these mouthwatering BBQ chicken sliders! Tender, juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, then grilled to perfection and served on toasted buns.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together BBQ sauce and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let sit for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Grill chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble sliders by placing grilled chicken breast onto each bun.
7. Top with coleslaw and pickle slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hidden Veggie Pasta Sauce
This creamy pasta sauce recipe is a game-changer for sneaking in extra nutrients into your meals. By blending finely cooked vegetables with tomato sauce, you’ll create a rich and flavorful sauce that’s perfect for topping pasta, pizza, or using as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked carrots
– 1 cup cooked zucchini
– 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked carrots, zucchini, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine blended vegetable mixture, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until desired consistency is reached.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using Parmesan cheese, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
These tasty pinwheels are perfect for a quick snack or lunchbox addition. With a flavorful combination of ham, cheese, and herbs, they’re easy to make and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of croissant dough (thawed)
– 2 tablespoons of cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup of thinly sliced ham
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the croissant dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the cream cheese over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with ham, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a log shape.
6. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato Pancakes
Sweet Potato Pancakes: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Breakfast
These sweet potato pancakes are a tasty and healthy twist on traditional pancakes. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the pancake mix.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil as needed.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: 8-10 pancakes
Cheesy Cauliflower Tots
Transform humble cauliflower into crispy, cheesy tots that will delight both kids and adults! These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into small florets.
3. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, and salt. Add the grated cheese and stir until well combined.
4. Toss the cauliflower florets with the cheese mixture until evenly coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with olive oil. Arrange the cauliflower tots in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pizza Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Transform zucchinis into a flavorful and nutritious meal by filling them with pizza-inspired goodness. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on traditional pizza.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the pizza mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Veggie Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, onion, bell pepper, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll to coat.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yogurt Parfait with Granola
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this simple and satisfying Yogurt Parfait with Granola recipe! Layering creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and sweet fruit creates a delightful combination that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons granola
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– Optional: honey or maple syrup to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, layer the yogurt and granola.
2. Top with mixed berries.
3. If desired, drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
4. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
