Perfectly normal to struggle when it comes to finding side dishes that the whole family will enjoy. I mean, who wants to be stuck serving the same old apple slices and carrot sticks every night? But fear not, fellow parents! You’re not alone in this culinary conundrum. I’ve met kids with diverse palates – some devouring noodles and shrimp without hesitation, while others stick to a diet of beige foods like nuggets, mashed potatoes, and plain bagels.
It’s a challenge, but with a bit of creativity in the kitchen, you can transform even the most skeptical eaters into enthusiastic fans of green beans, cauliflower, and more. To make mealtime easier, I’ve included some kid-approved options on this list, like homemade potato chips and buttery corn on the cob. But why stop there? With a little bit of magic, your little ones might just learn to love sweet broccoli salad or crispy parsnip fries.
Even if you’re not dealing with a picky eater, having a few go-to kid-friendly side dishes up your sleeve is always a good idea. So let’s get started and find some new favorites together!
Homemade Potato Chips
Many parents are all too familiar with the struggle of getting their kids to eat something other than processed snacks. It’s not uncommon for children to be picky, and we often find ourselves resorting to whatever is easiest, rather than trying to coax them into eating something nutritious. However, making an effort to provide healthier options can have a significant impact on their overall well-being.
For instance, homemade potato chips are a much better alternative to store-bought ones, not only because they’re made with love but also because they can be tailored to be less salty and more flavorful. I personally like to use fat-free popcorn seasonings for added taste, and kids seem to adore them just the same.
Ants on a Log
Arguably one of the biggest challenges that parents face is cooking for their kids, as it’s like being a short-order chef. Every child is different, and what one might enjoy eating, another might turn down. That’s why I’m such a fan of recipes like this one! They offer so much flexibility when it comes to ingredients, allowing you to easily adapt them to suit your child’s tastes.
For example, you can make these using cream cheese, peanut butter, almond butter, or even Nutella – whatever your kid prefers. The best part is that these snacks are not only healthy but also fun for kids. And don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to the vegetable component. Instead of just celery, why not try using carrot sticks or sliced fruits?
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
You’ll want a dinner solution that caters to both kids and adults, which means finding sides that are universally enjoyed. That’s where this kid-friendly green bean casserole comes in – it’s the perfect accompaniment to a variety of main courses, from roast chicken to pot roast. To make it more appealing to young palates, I opt for cream of chicken soup over mushroom, and generously top it with crispy onions for added texture.
Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Zestfully bringing back memories of my childhood, I had a special affinity for the color green, particularly in trees. This affection hasn’t waned with age, but I understand that kids may find trees overwhelming. However, there’s a way to make them more engaging – by roasting them with parmesan cheese! The resulting combination of crunchy texture and softened consistency will be much more appealing to young taste buds, and the added saltiness is merely a bonus.
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash
Making mealtime more enjoyable for kids can be a challenge, especially when it comes to vegetables. Most children tend to turn up their noses at greens, but the sight of vibrant orange roasted squash chunks is likely to pique their interest and open their eyes to new possibilities. The natural sweetness of the squash flesh is a great starting point, and this recipe takes it up a notch with a drizzle of maple syrup that adds an extra layer of flavor.
If you’re feeling fancy, you could also sprinkle over some brown sugar for a crunchy topping.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Add an extra layer of excitement to mealtimes with this vibrant orange dish that kids simply adore. The mere mention of mashed potatoes is often enough to get even the pickiest eaters excited, and the smooth texture will leave them wanting more. But it’s not just about presentation – the heavenly aroma wafting from this dish is sure to tantalize their taste buds and have them reaching for their spoons in no time!
For an added indulgence, try topping it with a few mini-marshmallows – it’s a simple yet effective way to guarantee empty plates. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so don’t be afraid to start with just a sprinkle.
Cheesy Baked Cauli Tots Recipe
Often, when whipping up a batch of tater tots, I find myself preparing extra because I know how quickly they’ll be devoured. There’s just something irresistible about the perfect blend of crispy exterior and tender interior that makes them a crowd-pleaser. To achieve this delicious balance in a healthier way, we can turn to cauliflower – a culinary chameleon that can transform into various dishes with ease. One bite of these low-carb tots and even the pickiest eaters will be begging for more!
The best part is, they’re so versatile – you can use them as a substitute in your favorite tater tot casserole recipes or experiment with new creations altogether.
Oven-Baked Potato Wedges
Carefully crafted potato wedges can be a healthier alternative to traditional French fries, as they often undergo baking rather than deep-frying. This method also makes the preparation process significantly easier, as there’s no need to peel and slice the potatoes into uniform strips. To prepare them, simply wash the skins and cut the potatoes into wedge shapes.
I find that the combination of onion powder, garlic powder, parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper strikes a perfect balance in terms of flavor. Feel free to leave them with just a touch of salt or add extra seasonings if your kids are more adventurous.
Quick Broccoli and Cheese
Zest for life is what this incredible cheese sauce brings to the table! Its versatility knows no bounds, making it a staple in my household, especially on those busy days when I crave something comforting yet quick. The best part? It’s a game-changer compared to traditional mac and cheese options, packing just as much flavor without the added guilt. In fact, this sauce is so good that I’ve even started using it as a substitute for regular cauliflower cheese – talk about a match made in heaven!
But what really takes the cake (or should I say, the mac?) is how effortlessly it’s prepared: simply blend, heat, and serve – done in just 15 minutes. No more excuses for reaching for those pre-made packets!
Sweet Potato Fries
Navigating the eternal conundrum of catering to our children’s cravings can be a daunting task. We can never fully eliminate the temptation of traditional fries from our diets, but we shouldn’t feel obligated to indulge every day. If your kids are constantly asking for them, it may be time to introduce a healthier alternative that will satisfy their cravings without compromising on taste or convenience.
Sweet potato fries, for instance, are surprisingly easy to make and can add a delightful twist to mealtime. Trust me, they’ll be devoured in no time! Since they’re baked, sweet potato fries offer a guilt-free option compared to regular fries. To take them to the next level of crispiness, try tossing them in some cornstarch before baking – it’s a simple trick that yields impressive results.
Better Broccoli Casserole
Popeye’s French Fries Recipe
Naturally, I must clarify that these baked fries deviate from traditional fried options, but I still believe we all deserve a plate of crispy goodness at least once a week. While it’s not feasible or safe to have deep fat fryers in every home, these baked fries offer a convenient solution for busy weeknights when paired with leftover rotisserie chicken.
You can either take the time to craft your own Cajun seasoning using the specified measurements or opt for store-bought convenience – either way, the result is crispy, tender fries that are nothing short of irresistible.
Baked Avocado Fries
Fresh from the oven or deep fryer, avocado fries offer a unique combination of textures that can be both appealing and off-putting. While the crunchy exterior, achieved through a mixture of breadcrumbs, chickpea flour, and seasoning, is often well-received, the soft and mushy interior may not be to everyone’s taste.
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
Taking centre stage in many cuisines around the world, it’s not hard to see why corn has won the hearts of kids everywhere. Whether it’s the vibrant colour, the satisfying crunch, or the inherent sweetness that comes with every bite, there are plenty of reasons why this versatile ingredient is a crowd-pleaser. For parents looking for a filling meal that’s sure to be devoured by even the pickiest eaters, this casserole is an excellent option.
It offers all the comforting goodness of a traditional cornbread, but with an added layer of sophistication thanks to its use of whole corn, creamed corn, generous helpings of cheese, and store-bought cornbread mix.
Cauliflower Au Gratin
Just as potatoes au gratin is a decadent delight that can steal the spotlight from even the most impressive cut of meat, cauliflower au gratin promises to do the same with its rich and indulgent flavors. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if a serving of this creamy dish could easily become a standalone meal that you’d happily devour on its own.
As we’ve discussed before, incorporating cauliflower into our diets is not only beneficial for our health but also incredibly versatile in terms of preparation methods and flavor combinations. Given these advantages, it makes perfect sense to substitute cauliflower into classic recipes like this one, transforming them into a nutritious yet satisfying experience.
One thing to keep in mind when recreating potatoes au gratin with cauliflower is the type of cheese used – Gruyère, while incredibly delicious, has a strong and pungent flavor that might be overpowering for some palates. If you’re looking for a milder alternative, consider using cheddar instead, or experiment with other cheese options to find the perfect balance of flavors for your taste buds.
This way, you can enjoy the comforting goodness of au gratin without feeling overwhelmed by the richness.
Paula Deen’s Broccoli Salad
Elevating a classic broccoli salad to new heights is all about balance. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience for the palate. Crunchy elements, such as toasted pine nuts or crispy bacon, provide a satisfying contrast to the soft, slightly sweet broccoli florets. Meanwhile, the tangy zip from crumbled feta cheese adds depth, while juicy grapes burst with freshness in each bite.
A drizzle of creamy dressing brings everything together, but I recommend blanching the broccoli first to minimize its bitterness and make it more palatable for kids. Feel free to experiment with your own combinations – perhaps some chopped nuts or sesame seeds scattered on top will become a new favorite.
Oven-Baked Popcorn Cauliflower
Understanding kids’ eating habits is crucial when it comes to mealtime success. They tend to favor finger-friendly foods that require minimal effort and utensil use. This often means opting for nuggets, fruit, cheese sticks, and other easy-to-eat options. The recipe we’re sharing today leverages this preference perfectly, as it’s presented in a format that kids will find appealing: popcorn chicken.
By shaping the chicken into bite-sized pieces, you’ll create a dish that looks like fun finger food, making it more likely to entice even the pickiest eaters. To serve, simply place the chicken in a large bowl and let each child grab a piece with their fingers. Don’t worry about utensils or plates – this is all about ease and convenience. For added fun, set up a few dipping sauces on the table and be prepared for some messiness with plenty of napkins on hand.
Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Renowned for their family-friendly atmosphere, Cracker Barrel has mastered the art of satisfying both children and adults alike, and these buttery glazed carrots are a shining example of this feat. While as an adult I appreciate the delightful crunch and sweetness that carrots bring to the table, it’s clear that kids have a different reason to be excited – the sweet glaze is definitely a winner in their books.
Made with a generous helping of butter, brown sugar, and just a pinch of salt, these carrots are sure to become a beloved favorite among both young and old.
Baked Parsnip Fries
Observing these baked ‘fries’ at first glance, it’s almost impossible to distinguish them from their French counterparts. Their texture is remarkably similar to that of regular fries, remaining wonderfully crisp despite being made from parsnips. The presentation alone makes it hard to believe they’re not potatoes.
However, when topped with a generous amount of seasonings – paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parmesan – even the most discerning palates will be convinced that these ‘fries’ are indeed French fries.
Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Preparation of these crispy potato bites is a regular occurrence in my kitchen. They’re essentially the ultimate potato experience – tender on the inside, salty and crunchy on the outside, and incredibly easy to make. The key to achieving this perfect balance lies in pre-boiling them until they’re tender. Once drained and dried, it’s time to get creative with the smashing process. I prefer using a greased glass bottom for an even squish.
The technique is not only fun to do with kids but also teaches them about heat safety, as the potatoes will be hot during the process.
25 Easy Kid-Friendly Sides
Offering a variety of delicious and fun options is key when it comes to feeding picky kids. Traditional kid-friendly favorites like ants on a log, cauli-tots, and potato wedges are sure to be devoured by even the most finicky eaters.
Instructions
Finding the perfect family recipe can be a great starting point for planning a fun and engaging mealtime experience with kids. This involves selecting a recipe that everyone will enjoy, regardless of their age or culinary preferences. Once you’ve identified your go-to recipe, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients to avoid any last-minute rushes or substitutions.
Furthermore, preparing a kid-friendly side dish within 30 minutes or less can be an excellent way to keep things simple and enjoyable for both kids and adults alike.
