Are you tired of cooking up a storm only to have your little ones turn their noses up at the meal? You’re not alone! Many parents struggle with getting their kids to try new foods, especially if they’re picky eaters. But what if we told you that there’s a way to make healthy eating fun and engaging for kids? Enter: kid-friendly recipes!
In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From sweet treats like Banana Pancake Bites and Strawberry Banana Smoothie Popsicles, to savory dishes like Mini Pizza Bagels with Hidden Veggies and Veggie-Packed Chicken Nuggets, we’ve got you covered.
Rainbow Fruit Skewers with Yogurt Dip
Brighten up your snack time with these colorful and healthy Rainbow Fruit Skewers, perfectly paired with a refreshing Yogurt Dip. A fun and easy recipe perfect for kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fruit (grapes, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi, orange)
– 10 bamboo skewers
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Sprinkle of granola (optional)
Instructions:
1. Thread 3-4 pieces of fruit onto each skewer.
2. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt and honey until smooth.
3. Serve the fruit skewers with the yogurt dip on the side.
4. Optional: sprinkle granola on top of the yogurt for added crunch.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
Mini Pizza Bagels with Hidden Veggies
These bite-sized pizza bagels are the perfect snack or lunchbox addition, packed with hidden veggies and melty cheese. Plus, they’re easy to make and customizable to your family’s favorite toppings!
Ingredients:
– 12 mini bagels
– 1/4 cup finely chopped bell peppers
– 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, olives, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped bell peppers and mushrooms.
3. Spread a small amount of olive oil on each mini bagel, then top with a spoonful of the veggie mixture.
4. Drizzle tomato sauce over the veggies, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Add your desired toppings.
6. Place bagels on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your mini pizza bagels with hidden veggies!
Cheesy Broccoli Tots
These bite-sized treats combine the comfort of broccoli with the fun of tater tots, all wrapped up in a cheesy package. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish for your next family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen tater tots
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Spread the tater tots out in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a separate bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
5. Sprinkle the broccoli mixture evenly over the tater tots.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana Pancake Bites
Start your day with a delicious and healthy twist on traditional pancakes! These bite-sized banana pancake treats are easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together mashed bananas, oats, flour, and egg until well combined.
3. Add honey and salt; stir to combine.
4. Drop small spoonfuls of the mixture onto the preheated skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Peanut Butter and Jelly Sushi Rolls
Peanut Butter and Jelly Sushi Rolls: A Twist on a Classic!
These sweet and savory sushi rolls are perfect for a fun twist on the traditional PB&J sandwich. With just a few ingredients, you can create a unique snack that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup grape jelly
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1/4 cup chopped strawberries or fruit of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Spread a thin layer of peanut butter onto the nori seaweed, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Place a tablespoon of grape jelly on top of the peanut butter.
4. Add a spoonful of prepared sushi rice to the center of the roll.
5. Roll up the nori and filling tightly but gently.
6. Slice into desired size and shape.
7. Garnish with chopped strawberries or fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes! (Just assemble and enjoy!)
Hidden Spinach Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the added nutrition of spinach, creating a deliciously hidden treat for kids (and adults!) alike. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this creamy masterpiece in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and milk; stir until combined.
4. Remove from heat; add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth.
5. Add chopped spinach and cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture; stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Apple Sandwiches with Almond Butter
This sweet and satisfying snack combines the crunch of apples with the creamy richness of almond butter, all wrapped up in a soft and fluffy bread. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy addition to your lunchbox.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe apples, sliced
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 4 slices whole wheat bread
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices on a flat surface.
2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of almond butter onto each slice.
3. Arrange 2-3 apple slices on top of the almond butter.
4. Drizzle with honey, if desired, for an extra touch of sweetness.
5. Sandwich the apples between two bread slices to create a neat and tidy package.
Cooking Time: None! This snack is ready in minutes.
Veggie-Packed Chicken Nuggets
Say goodbye to boring chicken nuggets and hello to a flavorful, veggie-packed twist! These bite-sized morsels are perfect for kids and adults alike, packed with hidden veggies that will make you feel good about serving them.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup finely chopped zucchini
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, oats, carrots, zucchini, and cheese (if using). Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and olive oil. Add paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour mixture over the chicken mixture and mix until just combined.
4. Form into small nugget-sized pieces. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mini Taco Cups with Ground Turkey
A flavorful and convenient twist on traditional tacos, these mini cups are perfect for parties or snacks. With ground turkey as the base, they’re also a great way to get your daily dose of protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 mini taco shells
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced tomatoes for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet and cook until vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in taco seasoning according to package instructions.
5. Spoon turkey mixture into mini taco shells, filling them about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and cups are heated through.
7. Serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Quesadillas
Get ready to experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with these Sweet Potato and Black Bean Quesadillas. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to add some excitement to their lunch or dinner routine.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: salsa, avocado, sour cream, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add diced sweet potatoes and black beans; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet; sprinkle with cheese and filling mixture.
5. Fold tortilla in half; cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and melted.
6. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Yogurt Parfait with Granola and Berries
Start your day off right with this refreshing and nutritious yogurt parfait, featuring crunchy granola, sweet berries, and creamy yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granola
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, layer the yogurt, berries, and granola.
2. Drizzle with honey, if desired, for an extra touch of sweetness.
3. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just minutes.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy yogurt parfait!
Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels
These pinwheels are a tasty and convenient way to enjoy turkey, cheese, and veggies all wrapped up in one easy-to-eat package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– 6-8 large tortilla wraps
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the turkey, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, bell pepper, and cucumber until well combined.
2. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the turkey mixture onto the center of each tortilla wrap, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Drizzle with hummus.
4. Roll up the wraps tightly and slice into pinwheels.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! These pinwheels are ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Zucchini Muffins with Chocolate Chips
These flavorful muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go. The addition of zucchini adds natural moisture and a hint of sweetness, while the chocolate chips provide a delightful surprise in each bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, zucchini, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Homemade Chicken Fingers with Honey Mustard
Take your chicken finger game to the next level with this easy-to-make recipe that combines crispy, juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy honey mustard dip. Perfect for kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Honey mustard dip (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce – including honey mustard!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ants on a Log with Cream Cheese
This classic snack gets a creamy twist with the addition of cream cheese! A simple and satisfying treat that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat pretzel rods (logs)
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup raisins (ants)
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Lay a pretzel rod on a flat surface.
2. Spread about 1 tablespoon of peanut butter onto the pretzel, leaving a small border at each end.
3. Place 2-3 raisins in the middle of the peanut butter.
4. Dot the top of the peanut butter with about 1/2 teaspoon of cream cheese.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This snack is ready in minutes.
Mini Meatball Sliders
Elevate your party or gathering with these bite-sized Mini Meatball Sliders! Made with tender meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and crispy buns, these sliders are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 12 mini slider buns
– Provolone cheese, shredded (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing meatballs on buns, topping with marinara sauce, and adding shredded provolone cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower Tater Tots
Transform your snack game with these crispy and delicious Cauliflower Tater Tots! Made by pulsing cauliflower into small pieces, coating them in a flavorful mixture of spices and cheese, and then baking until golden brown, this recipe is perfect for those looking to reduce their carb intake without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles small pieces of tater tots.
4. In a bowl, mix together the cheese, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the processed cauliflower to the bowl and toss until well coated with the mixture.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cauliflower “tots” in a single layer.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Strawberry Banana Smoothie Popsicles
Beat the heat with these refreshing popsicles that combine the sweetness of strawberries and bananas in a tasty treat. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they’re easy to make and require no cooking.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Popsicle sticks
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bananas, strawberries, yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add milk and blend until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into popsicle molds or small cups.
5. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Enjoy your delicious strawberry banana smoothie popsicles!
Cooking Time: None
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Get ready for a seasonal treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the heartiness of oatmeal, all wrapped up in a delicious cookie package. These soft-baked treats are perfect for snacking on throughout the fall season.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rainbow Veggie Wraps with Hummus
This colorful wrap recipe is a vibrant and healthy snack or meal that’s perfect for any time of day. With its medley of veggies, creamy hummus, and whole grain wraps, it’s a delightful treat that’s easy to make and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole wheat tortillas
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as kale, spinach, and arugula)
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced yellow bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced orange bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced avocado
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– 2 tbsp hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cherry tomatoes, carrots, or sprouts for added color
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lay tortillas flat on a baking sheet.
3. Spread 1/2 tsp of hummus on each wrap, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Top with mixed greens, bell peppers, avocado, and cucumber.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until wraps are warm and crispy.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Looking for recipes that your picky eaters will love? Look no further! This article features 20 fun and creative kid-friendly recipes that are sure to please even the most finicky eaters. From sweet treats like banana pancake bites and pumpkin oatmeal cookies, to healthy snacks like rainbow fruit skewers and veggie-packed chicken nuggets, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes have hidden veggies or fruits, making them a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition.
