Are you tired of cooking meals that your picky eaters turn up their noses at? Do you wish you had a repertoire of tried-and-true recipes that everyone in your household would love? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches, to international-inspired dishes like tacos and quesadillas, we’ve got something for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are designed to be simple, yet satisfying. And with a range of ingredients and flavors, you can mix and match to find your family’s new favorite meals. So why wait? Dive into our collection of tasty recipes below and start cooking up some delicious memories today!
Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese
This classic recipe is a comforting twist on the traditional macaroni dish, with a crispy baked top and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work well)
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 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 medium saucepan, whisk together milk, flour, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add softened butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheesy sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard
Elevate your snack game with these crispy chicken tenders smothered in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a satisfying after-school treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon honey mustard sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry coated chicken tenders for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Drizzle with honey mustard sauce and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buttered Garlic Parmesan Noodles
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and savory recipe that combines the richness of butter, garlic, and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal anytime.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter and stir until melted.
4. Toss the cooked noodles with the garlic butter mixture until well coated.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Mini Cheese and Spinach Quesadillas
These bite-sized quesadillas are a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. Filled with melted cheese, wilted spinach, and crispy tortilla, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the spinach and a pinch of salt.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with cheese and the other half with spinach mixture.
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 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Pizza with Simple Toppings
Create a delicious homemade pizza with just a few simple toppings. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a fun family activity.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup)
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness.
7. Spread pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
8. Top with mozzarella cheese and your chosen toppings.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soft and Fluffy Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy pancakes drizzled with the sweetness of pure maple syrup. This simple recipe yields tender, golden-brown pancakes that are sure to become a breakfast favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and sugar.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in the melted butter until smooth.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1 minute.
9. Serve warm with pure maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup
This classic comfort food combination is a staple for a reason – the melted cheese, crispy bread, and rich tomato soup come together to create a satisfying and warming meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread
– 1-2 slices of cheddar or American cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 cups tomato soup (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheese and cover with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve immediately with a bowl of warm tomato soup.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Baked Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce
A twist on the classic appetizer, these baked mozzarella sticks are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Serve with a side of tangy marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Marinara sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each mozzarella stick into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Classic Spaghetti with Mild Tomato Sauce
A timeless Italian dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser, this classic spaghetti recipe is a great introduction to the world of pasta. With a simple and flavorful tomato sauce, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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 large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve cooked spaghetti with warm tomato sauce. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple and satisfying recipe, featuring creamy mashed potatoes smothered in a rich and savory gravy.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and mash with butter, milk, and 1/2 cup shredded cheese until smooth.
3. In a separate pan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese until melted.
6. Combine mashed potatoes with the gravy mixture and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Peanut Butter and Banana Smoothie
Start your day with a creamy and delicious blend of peanut butter, banana, and milk – a perfect combination to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the bananas, peanut butter, and milk to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. If desired, add the honey and blend until well combined.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Oven-Baked French Fries with Ketchup
Elevate your snack game with this easy recipe that yields crispy, flavorful French fries without the need for deep-frying. In just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying perfectly baked fries paired with a classic ketchup dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut potatoes into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch thick). Rinse and dry with paper towels.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Toss potatoes with oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fries are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oven and toss with ketchup.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Beef Tacos with Shredded Cheese
A classic Mexican-inspired dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
6. Add your desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Rice Casserole
This classic casserole is a staple for any home cook, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in peas and carrots, cream of chicken soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
6. Layer the casserole: rice, chicken mixture, repeat.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Yogurt with Fresh Berries
This recipe is a simple yet satisfying treat that combines the creaminess of vanilla yogurt with the natural sweetness of fresh berries. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, this dessert is light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Optional: honey or maple syrup to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, scoop out the vanilla yogurt.
2. Gently wash and pat dry the fresh berries.
3. Add the berries on top of the yogurt, leaving some space between each berry for visual appeal.
4. If desired, drizzle with honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required – just assemble and serve!
Soft Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip
Soft Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip Recipe
Satisfy your snack cravings with these soft, buttery pretzel bites served alongside a creamy cheese dip. Perfect for parties or cozy movie nights!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pretzel dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out pretzel dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Cut into bite-sized pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush tops with melted butter.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, mix cheese dip ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
7. Serve pretzel bites warm with cheese dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Chicken Nuggets with BBQ Sauce
A classic comfort food gets a tasty twist with these homemade chicken nuggets smothered in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally panko breadcrumbs.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated chicken pieces for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the nuggets from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve the hot nuggets with your favorite BBQ sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and grated cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and melted butter. Pour the mixture over the rice mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips
This classic banana bread recipe gets a delightful twist with the addition of dark chocolate chips, creating a sweet and indulgent treat perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 8-10 slices
Mini Corn Dogs with Mustard Dip
Perfect for parties or snacks, these bite-sized corn dogs are an easy twist on the classic fair favorite. Serve with a tangy mustard dip for an added layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package mini hot dogs
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Mustard dip ingredients (see below)
Mustard Dip:
– 1/2 cup yellow mustard
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, paprika, salt, and baking soda.
3. Dip each mini hot dog into the beaten egg, then roll in the cornmeal mixture to coat.
4. Fry coated hot dogs for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with mustard dip (mix all ingredients together).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of cooking meals that your picky eaters won’t touch? Look no further! This article features 20 delicious recipes that are sure to please even the most finicky palates. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches, to international flavors like tacos and quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. And don’t worry – these dishes are all easy to make and require minimal ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, these tasty recipes are sure to become family favorites.
