30 Kid-Approved Dinner Recipes Even the Pickiest Eaters Will Love
Dinner time. The bane of every parent’s existence? Maybe. But it doesn’t have to be a nightly battle! We’ve compiled a list of 30 tried-and-true, kid-approved dinner recipes that even the pickiest eaters will (hopefully!) devour. Forget the power struggles and the negotiations, these meals are designed to bring smiles to the table (and maybe even a request for seconds!).
From cheesy goodness to sneaky veggies, we’ve got something for everyone. So, ditch the takeout menus, grab your apron, and get ready to win dinner time once and for all. Let’s dive into these delicious and easy-to-make recipes!
Mac and Cheese Recipe
Who can resist a creamy, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese? This classic is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Add some hidden pureed veggies for an extra nutritional boost without them even noticing!
Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Skip the drive-thru and make your own healthier (and tastier!) chicken nuggets at home. Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber and bake them for a crispy, golden finish.
Pizza Recipe
Pizza night is always a hit! Let the kids customize their own pizzas with their favorite toppings. It’s a fun and interactive way to get them involved in the cooking process.
Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Another classic comfort food, spaghetti and meatballs is a guaranteed winner. Use lean ground beef or turkey for the meatballs and sneak in some finely chopped veggies.
Quesadillas Recipe
Quick, easy, and endlessly customizable, quesadillas are a perfect weeknight meal. Fill them with cheese, beans, shredded chicken, or whatever your kids love.
Tacos Recipe
Taco Tuesday is always a good idea! Set up a taco bar and let everyone create their own masterpieces. Don’t forget the guacamole!
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe
A simple yet satisfying meal, grilled cheese sandwiches are a timeless favorite. Serve with a side of tomato soup for dipping.
Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
A comforting and hearty dish, chicken pot pie is perfect for a chilly evening. Use store-bought pie crust to save time or make your own from scratch.
Fish Sticks Recipe
Elevate the humble fish stick by baking it and serving it with a homemade tartar sauce. It’s a healthier and more flavorful alternative to the frozen kind.
Hot Dogs Recipe
Sometimes, the simplest meals are the best. Hot dogs are a quick and easy option for busy weeknights. Serve them with all the fixings!
Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe
Mini cheeseburgers are always a hit with kids. Serve them on slider buns for a fun and easy-to-eat meal.
Pasta with Pesto Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful dish, pasta with pesto is a great way to sneak in some greens. Use store-bought or homemade pesto for this quick and easy meal.
Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
A healthy and delicious meal, chicken stir-fry is a great way to use up leftover vegetables. Serve it over rice or noodles.
Tuna Melts Recipe
A simple and satisfying meal, tuna melts are a great way to get some protein into your kids’ diets. Serve them on toasted bread or English muffins.
Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
A comforting and hearty casserole, chicken and rice is a great way to use up leftover chicken. Add some vegetables for extra nutrition.
Sloppy Joes Recipe
A classic kid-friendly meal, sloppy joes are always a messy but delicious treat. Serve them on hamburger buns with a side of coleslaw.
Corn Dogs Recipe
Homemade corn dogs are a fun and easy treat to make with the kids. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces.
Chicken Caesar Wraps Recipe
A lighter and healthier alternative to a traditional Caesar salad, chicken Caesar wraps are a quick and easy meal. Use whole wheat tortillas for added fiber.
Breakfast for Dinner Recipe
Who doesn’t love breakfast for dinner? Serve pancakes, waffles, eggs, bacon, or sausage for a fun and easy meal.
Baked Potato Bar Recipe
Let everyone customize their own baked potatoes with their favorite toppings. It’s a fun and interactive meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Mini Meatloaf Recipe
Individual meatloaves are a fun and easy way to serve this classic dish. Serve with mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting meal.
Pasta Salad Recipe
A refreshing and easy-to-make meal, pasta salad is perfect for a warm evening. Add your favorite vegetables, cheese, and protein for a complete meal.
Chicken Fajitas Recipe
A fun and flavorful meal, chicken fajitas are a great way to get the kids involved in the cooking process. Serve with tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Homemade Pizza Rolls Recipe
A healthier and more delicious alternative to store-bought pizza rolls, these are a guaranteed win! Customize the fillings to your kid’s liking.
Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
A comforting and hearty dish, shepherd’s pie is a great way to sneak in some vegetables. Top with mashed potatoes and bake until golden brown.
Chicken Alfredo Recipe
A creamy and delicious pasta dish, chicken alfredo is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve with a side of steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
English Muffin Pizzas Recipe
A quick and easy meal, English muffin pizzas are a great way to use up leftover ingredients. Let the kids customize their own pizzas with their favorite toppings.
Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe
A fun and bite-sized twist on a classic, mac and cheese bites are perfect for picky eaters. Bake them until golden brown and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Chicken Tenders Recipe
Another staple kid food, Chicken tenders are easy to make at home. Use simple ingredients like flour, spices, and breadcrumbs to make them extra crispy.
Walking Tacos Recipe
These are fun and easy to eat! Make a walking taco bar with all the fixings and let your kids assemble their own. A party in a bag!