Are you tired of hearing “I’m hungry!” every 30 minutes, only to have your little ones declare that they don’t like what’s in front of them? If so, it’s time to mix things up with some delicious and easy-to-make kid-friendly dinner recipes. As any parent knows, getting kids to eat can be a challenge, but when you make mealtime fun and engaging, everyone wins.
In this article, we’ll share 20 quick and tasty recipe ideas that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and chicken nuggets, to international-inspired dishes like tacos and quesadillas, there’s something for every kid (and adult!) on this list. So grab a fork and get ready to dig in with these mouthwatering meal ideas that are sure to become family favorites.
Cheesy Baked Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and cheesy baked chicken tenders. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing appetizer or quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 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 cheese and breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the cheese mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Pizza Bagels
Mini Pizza Bagels: A Quick and Easy Snack
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a fun and flavorful snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously cheesy and savory mini pizza that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 12-15 bagel minis
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup pizza sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni or your favorite toppings
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice each bagel mini in half and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the bagels, then spoon a small amount of pizza sauce onto each half.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by your desired toppings (pepperoni or other favorites).
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Mac and Cheese Muffins
Elevate your snack game with these creamy, cheesy muffins that combine the best of macaroni and cheese with the convenience of a portable treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 cups cooked macaroni and cheese (see note)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Optional: chopped scallions or paprika for garnish
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, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, milk, macaroni and cheese, and beaten egg. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then mix with shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella) to taste.
Taco Stuffed Peppers
Taco Stuffed Peppers: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Recipe
This recipe combines the comfort of stuffed peppers with the excitement of tacos, resulting in a unique and delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8 oz cooked rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, and shredded cheese.
6. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, followed by the taco meat, and finally top with additional shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hidden Veggie Spaghetti Sauce
Transform your pasta game with this innovative sauce recipe that hides a medley of veggies beneath its rich and tangy flavor! With a blend of finely chopped vegetables, you’ll be serving up a nutrient-packed meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1/2 cup finely chopped zucchini
– 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped carrots, zucchini, and bell pepper; cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Ham and Cheese Roll Ups
Get ready for a delicious and easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for any occasion! These ham and cheese roll ups are a classic combination of flavors that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 6 slices of cooked ham
– 6 slices of cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese in the center of each piece of pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the filling.
4. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg.
5. Roll up the pastry tightly, starting from one end. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Place the roll ups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rainbow Veggie Quesadillas
Rainbow Veggie Quesadillas: A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas!
Ingredients:
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup cooked corn kernels
– 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, corn kernels, bell peppers, and red onion.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with cheese and half with the vegetable mixture.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is crispy and cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until other side is crispy and golden.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato Pancakes
Get ready to start your day with a delicious twist on traditional pancakes! These sweet potato pancakes are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a perfect breakfast or brunch option.
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 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add mashed sweet potatoes, egg, milk, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
5. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels
These pinwheels are a great way to use up leftover turkey and cheese, wrapped in a flaky tortilla and perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 6-8 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together turkey, cream cheese, parsley, and paprika.
2. Lay a tortilla flat on a surface. Spread one-quarter of the turkey mixture down the center of the tortilla.
3. Sprinkle one-quarter of the shredded cheddar cheese over the turkey mixture.
4. Roll up the tortilla tightly but gently. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Cut each pinwheel into 1-inch thick slices. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Roll Ups
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these no-bake, bite-sized treats that combine creamy peanut butter and ripe bananas.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Spread a tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture onto each banana piece.
4. Roll up each banana piece tightly in the rolled oats to form a cylinder shape.
5. Place the roll-ups on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake treats are ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Say goodbye to store-bought nuggets and hello to homemade goodness! This simple recipe yields crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside chicken nuggets that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 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 the coated nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the goodness of broccoli, cheese, and rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and grated cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk, onion powder, salt, and pepper; stir until smooth.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the rice mixture; mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pizza Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Transform zucchinis into a delicious pizza-inspired dish with this easy recipe. By hollowing out the centers and filling them with a savory mixture of cheese, tomato sauce, and mozzarella, you’ll create a tasty and visually appealing snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, etc.
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 mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Top with optional toppings, if desired.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Meatloaf Muffins
These adorable mini meatloaf muffins are a fun twist on the classic comfort food. Perfect for snacks, parties, or a quick lunch, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12-15 mini muffin tin cups
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Taco Pasta
This recipe combines the comfort of pasta with the excitement of tacos, resulting in a creamy and cheesy dish that’s sure to please. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until tender.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes with green chilies and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheese. Toss until cheese is melted and well combined.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these mouthwatering BBQ chicken quesadillas that combine the rich flavors of slow-cooked chicken and tangy barbecue sauce with the crunch of crispy tortilla. Perfect for game day, parties, or just a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and BBQ sauce; cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
5. Add the shredded chicken on top of the cheese, followed by the remaining cheese.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Flip and cook for an additional minute.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Veggie Packed Fried Rice
A flavorful and nutritious twist on classic fried rice, this recipe is packed with a variety of colorful vegetables to add some excitement to your meal. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables, bean sprouts, and green onions; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push ingredients to one side of the pan. Crack in eggs (if using); scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix everything together and add cooked rice. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Fish Sticks
Get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fish sticks! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a fun snack for the kids.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into strips
– 1/2 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each fish strip into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated fish strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with lemon juice.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Spinach Quesadillas
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these creamy, cheesy, and spinach-packed quesadillas. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the 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 lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Banana Oat Pancakes
Start your day off right with these moist and flavorful banana oat pancakes. Made with ripe bananas, rolled oats, and a hint of vanilla, these pancakes are perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bananas, oats, flour, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. In a bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and sugar. Add the blended mixture and stir until combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, butter, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your kids with these 20 quick and easy dinner recipes! From cheesy baked chicken tenders to mini pizza bagels, and from taco stuffed peppers to sweet potato pancakes, there’s something for every picky eater. These kid-friendly meals are not only delicious but also simple to prepare and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become family favorites.
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