Are you tired of the same old kid-friendly meals every night? Look no further! As a parent, it can be challenging to come up with creative and delicious meal ideas that your little ones will love. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 quick dinner recipes for kids that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic comfort foods to healthier twists on old favorites, these recipes are perfect for busy families who need a reliable and tasty solution for dinnertime. And the best part? Each one is easy to make and can be ready in no time – just like mom used to say!
In this article, we’ll take you through our top 20 quick dinner recipes for kids that are sure to become new family favorites.
Cheesy Baked Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious baked chicken tenders!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken tender 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, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Mini Pizza Bagels
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a fun twist on traditional pizza night or as a quick snack for kids (and adults!) on-the-go. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 mini bagels
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni or other favorite toppings (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice each bagel in half and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread a small amount of marinara sauce on each bagel half, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Add optional toppings, if using.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each bagel.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Hidden Veggies
This classic comfort food gets a nutritious boost by sneaking in finely chopped veggies, making it a meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (hidden veggie #1)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (hidden veggie #2)
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese mixture (mix cheddar and mozzarella), milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
6. Stir in the cooked onion and garlic mixture.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas, perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the savory taste of turkey breast with melted cheese and crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the turkey, cheese, and cilantro (if using).
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tips:
– Use leftover turkey breast or cooked chicken for a variation.
– Add diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas!
Spaghetti with Sneaky Veggie Sauce
Looking for a way to get your kids (or yourself!) to eat their veggies without even realizing it? This Spaghetti with Sneaky Veggie Sauce recipe is the perfect solution! By blending cooked veggies into the sauce, you’ll add nutrients and flavor to this classic pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spaghetti
– 2 cups mixed veggies (such as zucchini, carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked veggies, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the blended veggie mixture in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers
Add a twist to traditional tacos by stuffing bell peppers with flavorful taco fixings!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas, torn into small pieces
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the taco mixture, followed by a layer of torn tortillas and shredded cheese (if using).
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Enjoy a tasty and healthier alternative to store-bought chicken nuggets with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can create delicious and crispy chicken bites that are perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Dip chicken pieces into the flour mixture, then into beaten egg, and finally into panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This classic casserole combines the best of both worlds – creamy cheese and nutritious broccoli – with a savory rice base, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
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
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, milk, and butter. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with additional mozzarella cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Meatloaf Muffins
These bite-sized meatloaves are perfect for a quick snack or meal on-the-go. Made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a hint of tomato sauce, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 mini muffin cups
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 12-15 portions, depending on desired muffin size.
4. Place each portion into a mini muffin cup.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups
A deliciously simple snack that combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the sweetness of ripe bananas.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1 tsp honey
– 12-16 whole wheat tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
2. Slice the bananas into 1-inch pieces.
3. Spread about 1/4 tsp of peanut butter mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
4. Place a banana piece in the center of each tortilla.
5. Roll up the tortilla tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! These are best served fresh and at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups!
Rainbow Veggie Wraps
Add a pop of color and flavor to your meal with these vibrant Rainbow Veggie Wraps!
Ingredients:
• 1 large flour tortilla
• 1/2 cup shredded carrot
• 1/2 cup shredded beetroot
• 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
• 1 tablespoon hummus
• 1 sprig of fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread the hummus evenly along the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border at each end.
3. Arrange the carrot, beetroot, bell pepper, and cucumber slices in a rainbow pattern on top of the hummus.
4. Sprinkle parsley over the vegetables for garnish.
5. Fold both sides of the tortilla towards the center to enclose the filling.
6. Slice in half and serve.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Cheesy Spinach Pasta Shells
This comforting dish combines the simplicity of pasta shells with the richness of melted cheese and the nutrients of spinach, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With its creamy sauce and tender pasta, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
5. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta shells with the cheesy spinach sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated cheese (if desired) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Quesadillas
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: salsa, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. In a pan, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add the black beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Slice the roasted sweet potatoes into thin strips.
5. Place a tortilla in a pan, then top with sweet potato strips, black bean mixture, and shredded cheese.
6. Fold the tortilla in half and cook over medium heat until crispy and melted.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes per batch (depending on number of quesadillas)
Parmesan Crusted Fish Sticks
Elevate your snack game with this crispy and flavorful recipe! Crunchy fish sticks get a gourmet boost from a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or tilapia fillets, cut into finger-shaped strips
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each fish strip into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated fish strips on prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Hidden Veggie Pasta Bake
A deliciously deceiving pasta dish that packs a nutritious punch! This recipe cleverly conceals a medley of finely chopped veggies within the comforting layers of pasta and cheese, making it a perfect meal for picky eaters or those looking to sneak in some extra nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1 cup finely chopped zucchini
– 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, sauté chopped veggies in garlic until tender.
4. Combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and veggie mixture in a large bowl.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, topping with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Corn Dog Muffins
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these bite-sized Mini Corn Dog Muffins, perfect for snack time or as a dessert. These moist and flavorful treats combine the classic corn dog with the convenience of a muffin.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup crushed Fritos or other crunchy snack (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vegetable oil.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cornmeal and crushed Fritos (if using).
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Tots
Get ready to upgrade your snack game with these crispy, cheesy, and utterly addictive cauliflower tots. This recipe is perfect for veggie lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves, stem, and florets.
2. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In a bowl, combine the cauliflower “rice,” grated cheese, breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small tots (about 1-inch/2.5 cm each).
5. Place the tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Get ready to serve up a crowd-pleasing snack with these tender and flavorful BBQ chicken sliders!
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 4 hamburger buns
• Lettuce, tomato, red onion, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and honey.
3. Add chicken to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Grill the chicken until cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side).
5. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last minute of cooking.
6. Assemble sliders by placing cooked chicken on buns and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Veggie-Packed Fried Rice
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional fried rice, packed with an assortment of colorful vegetables to fuel your day. Perfect for using up leftover veggies and rice, this dish is quick, easy, and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn, bell peppers)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in an egg; scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix the vegetables and egg together. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Pancakes
Start your day off right with these fluffy, flavorful pancakes infused with the sweetness of apples and warmth of cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 apple, diced (about 1/2 cup)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Maple syrup or honey for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter.
3. Add the diced apple and cinnamon to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 pancakes
Summary
Get your little ones excited to eat with these 20 quick and delicious dinner recipes that are kid-approved! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and mini pizza bagels, to sneaky veggie-packed meals like spaghetti with hidden veggies and sweet potato quesadillas, there’s something for every fussy eater. Try making cheesy baked chicken tenders, turkey and cheese quesadillas, or even homemade chicken nuggets that are sure to please. With these easy recipes, you’ll be a dinner superhero in no time!
