When it comes to cooking for kids, one of the biggest challenges parents face is finding recipes that their little ones will actually eat. Picky eating is a normal part of childhood development, but it can be frustrating and even worrisome when mealtime becomes a daily struggle. The good news is that with a few simple tweaks and clever presentation ideas, you can turn mealtime into a delightful experience for both you and your kids.
In this article, we’ll share 20 easy recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From comforting classics like mac and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches, to healthier options like fruit skewers and homemade chicken nuggets, these recipes are designed to be fun, easy, and delicious for kids of all ages.
Cheesy Baked Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and cheesy baked chicken tenders! With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and satisfying treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g. paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together egg and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat in breadcrumbs.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the tenders.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese
A creamy macaroni and cheese dish packed with hidden veggies that kids will love! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed veggies (steamed broccoli, carrots, and zucchini)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
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, combine steamed veggies, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, and paprika. Stir until smooth.
4. Add milk and whisk until combined. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cooked macaroni. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and dot the top with butter.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Pizza Bagels
Mini Pizza Bagels Recipe
These bite-sized bagel pizzas are perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and easy-to-eat treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini bagels (12-15 count)
– 1 cup of pizza sauce
– 8 ounces of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of chopped pepperoni or other topping of your choice
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
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. Drizzle olive oil over the bagels, then spoon a small amount of pizza sauce onto each bagel half.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by your chosen topping (e.g., pepperoni).
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of creamy peanut butter, ripe bananas, and crispy graham crackers. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, they’re easy to make and require minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 6-8 graham crackers
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
2. Slice each banana into 1-inch pieces.
3. Spread a small amount of the peanut butter mixture onto one half of each graham cracker.
4. Place a banana piece on top of the peanut butter, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Roll up the banana and peanut butter tightly, but gently, to form a neat roll.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are ready in no time.
Rainbow Fruit Skewers
Create a colorful and healthy snack or dessert with these vibrant fruit skewers, perfect for parties or everyday treats. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious and Instagram-worthy treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh kiwi, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh grapes, halved
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Thread a piece of pineapple onto the end of each skewer.
2. Alternate adding fruit chunks, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Continue threading until the skewer is full, ending with a piece of pineapple.
4. Serve immediately, or drizzle with honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Cooking Time: None! These skewers are best served fresh and chilled.
Sweet Potato Tater Tots
Sweet Potato Tater Tots Recipe
Transform your snack game with these crispy and delicious Sweet Potato Tater Tots! Using cooked sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes adds a natural sweetness and creamy texture to this classic favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cooked sweet potatoes, mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until a dough forms.
4. Using a piping bag or a spoon, shape the dough into long strips, about 1/4 inch thick (6-7 mm).
5. Heat about 2 inches (5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the Sweet Potato Tater Tots in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Alphabet Soup with Tiny Pasta
This classic comfort food recipe is a fun twist on traditional pasta soup. With tiny pasta shapes and a variety of vegetables, it’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (alphabet-shaped or other small varieties)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add vegetable broth, pasta shapes, diced tomatoes, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is cooked.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Quesadilla Dippers
Take your snacking game to the next level with these easy-to-make Cheesy Quesadilla Dippers. Perfect for parties or as a quick after-school treat, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut each tortilla into quarters.
3. Place a quarter of the tortilla on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded cheese on half of the tortilla, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Fold tortilla in half to enclose the cheese.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
8. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Yogurt Parfait with Granola
A refreshing and healthy dessert that combines creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and sweet fruit.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup plain yogurt (any flavor)
• 2 tablespoons granola
• 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, layer the yogurt.
2. Add the granola on top of the yogurt, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
3. Arrange the mixed berries over the granola.
4. Drizzle with honey, if desired, for an extra touch of sweetness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a fast dessert or snack.
Mini Pancake Stacks with Syrup
Get ready to start your day off right with these adorable mini pancake stacks smothered in sweet and sticky syrup! These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Syrup (maple, honey, or your favorite flavor)
– Fresh fruit or whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop small spoonfuls of batter onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface. Flip pancakes and cook for another minute.
6. Stack 2-3 pancakes on top of each other. Drizzle with syrup and add fresh fruit or whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels
Transform plain wraps into a tasty treat with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of turkey, cheese, and herbs. Perfect for a quick lunch or after-school snack.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 whole wheat tortilla wraps
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the turkey, cream cheese, and parsley until well combined.
3. Lay a tortilla wrap flat on a surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture onto the center of the wrap, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the turkey mixture.
5. Roll the wrap tightly into a pinwheel shape, starting from one end.
6. Repeat with remaining wraps and filling.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the wraps are crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make homemade chicken nuggets recipe! This classic favorite gets a fresh twist with tender and juicy chicken coated in a crispy, flavorful exterior.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, and cheddar cheese (if using).
3. In a separate dish, whisk together egg and a pinch of salt.
4. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Sandwiches with Peanut Butter
A classic combination that’s perfect for a quick snack or lunchbox addition, these apple sandwiches with peanut butter are easy to make and utterly delicious. The crunch of the apples pairs perfectly with the creamy peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples, sliced
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 4 slices whole wheat bread
– Optional: honey, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices.
2. Spread 1/2 to 1 tsp of peanut butter on each slice.
3. Arrange 1-2 apple slices on top of the peanut butter.
4. Add any desired optional toppings (honey, nuts, or coconut).
5. Top with another slice of bread to create a sandwich.
6. Cut in half or into quarters for easy handling.
Cooking Time: None! These sandwiches are best served fresh and assembled just before serving.
Pasta with Butter and Parmesan
This classic Italian recipe is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and yields a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious plate of pasta in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat.
3. Once melted, add the Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the cheese sauce. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
French Toast Sticks
Elevate your breakfast game with these crispy, golden French Toast Sticks, perfect for dipping into your favorite syrup or honey.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
2. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Place the coated bread slices on a flat surface and let them sit for 5 minutes to allow excess liquid to absorb.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the French toast sticks for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Repeat with remaining bread slices.
6. Serve warm and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Carrot and Zucchini Muffins
Brighten up your morning with these moist and flavorful carrot and zucchini muffins, packed with the sweetness of carrots and the subtle taste of zucchini. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, carrots, zucchini, and walnuts (if using); stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
6. Allow to cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Grilled Cheese Sandwich Stars
Get ready to elevate your grilled cheese game with these adorable star-shaped sandwiches! Perfect for a fun and easy lunch or snack, this recipe is sure to impress both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 tablespoons of butter
– 1-2 slices of cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or American)
– 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheese and a dollop of marinara sauce (if using).
5. Place another bread slice, butter-side up, on top to form a star shape.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per side
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the wholesome goodness of rolled oats, making them a perfect snack for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 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 large bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in the egg and optional nuts, if using.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Soft Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip
Soft Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip Recipe
Savor the perfect combination of warm, buttery pretzels and creamy cheese dip in this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of soft pretzel dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Optional: paprika or garlic powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out pretzel dough to desired thickness. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
3. Place pretzels on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix cheese and heavy cream in a bowl until smooth.
6. Serve warm pretzels with melted cheese dip and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Strawberry Banana Smoothie
A refreshing blend of sweet strawberries and creamy bananas, perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the bananas, strawberries, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the vanilla yogurt and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
5. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
6. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Summary
Get your kids to eat their favorite foods without fighting! Try these easy and delicious recipes that are perfect for picky eaters. From cheesy baked chicken tenders to hidden veggie mac and cheese, there’s something for everyone. Other tasty options include mini pizza bagels, peanut butter banana roll-ups, rainbow fruit skewers, sweet potato tater tots, and more! These fun and healthy recipes are sure to be a hit with kids of all ages. So why not give them a try? You might just find your new favorite family meal!
Leave a Reply