As a busy parent, finding dinner recipes for the whole family can be tough. Especially when dealing with picky eaters. But, there’s a way to make mealtime fun again. Get ready to find 75 easy kid-friendly meals that even the pickiest eaters will love.
This article offers a wide range of dinner recipes for picky eaters. You’ll find everything from mac and cheese and sloppy joes to creative takes on family favorites. Plus, many of these easy family dinners can be made in 30 minutes or less. Perfect for busy weeknights.
Looking for healthy picky eater recipes or just simple dinner ideas that kids will love? This collection has you covered. You’ll find flavorful but mild dishes, hidden veggie recipes, and creative cooking for children. Say goodbye to mealtime battles and hello to picky eater approved meals everyone will enjoy.
Baked Spaghetti: A Cozy Grandma’s Favorite
When it gets cold outside, nothing warms the heart like a cozy pasta dish. Baked spaghetti is a beloved recipe passed down through generations. It comes from Grandma Louise Miller of Westminster, Maryland, and is a hit with the grandkids on winter evenings.
Grandma Louise calls this baked spaghetti a special and cozy dinner. Tonya Cline of Greenville, Ohio, agrees. She says it’s a great way to keep family traditions alive, pleasing even the pickiest of eaters.
“This baked spaghetti dish is a grandchildren’s most-loved recipe, perfect for cozy winter evenings. The recipe comes from Grandma Louise, who states that it feels like such a special dinner and is so comforting for the colder months.”
This family-friendly pasta is loved for its healthiness and ease of making. It’s a hit with both kids and adults. Its cozy and special nature makes it a standout winter dinner favorite.
Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets
Want to enjoy Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets at home? This homemade recipe is a perfect copy. Jeni Pittard from Statham, Georgia, created these copycat chicken nuggets. They’re a tasty way to enjoy kid-friendly chicken in your kitchen.
The secret to these Chick-fil-A recipe nuggets is the marinade and breading. The chicken is soaked in pickle juice and milk. This makes the meat tender and tangy.
The batter is a mix of flour, breadcrumbs, and spices. It gives the nuggets a crunchy texture when fried.
Frying the homemade nuggets in small batches is key. Keep the oil at 350°F for perfect results. A sweet and tangy dipping sauce is made from barbecue sauce, Dijon mustard, and honey.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 3 lbs |
| Prep time | 30 minutes |
| Cook time | 20 minutes |
| Total time | 50 minutes |
| Servings | 12 |
| Calories per serving | 226 kcal |
| Protein per serving | 27% |
| Carbohydrates per serving | 19% |
These copycat chicken nuggets are perfect for family dinners or school lunches. They have a great crunch and juicy chicken. They’re a delicious and kid-friendly choice that’s just like Chick-fil-A.
“I knew I had a winner the first time I made these, as the whole family fought over who got the last one.”
Quick and Easy Taco Casserole
This dish combines two favorites: taco casserole and casseroles. Karen Owen from Rising Sun, Indiana, says it’s quick to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Appealing to All Appetites
The mix of taco flavors and casserole format pleases everyone. It’s a kid-friendly casserole that families love. It has a 4.55 rating from 91 votes.
It only takes 5 minutes to prepare and 55 minutes to cook. This simple 4-ingredient recipe serves 15 people. Each serving has 197 kcal, making it a healthy choice for family meals.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Value | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 197 kcal | – |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% |
| Protein | 24g | 48% |
| Fat | 24g | 37% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 56% |
| Cholesterol | 60mg | 20% |
| Sodium | 1218mg | 53% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 4g | 4% |
Looking for a kid-friendly casserole or an easy family dinner? This taco casserole is a hit at home.
The Ultimate Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Try the perfect grilled cheese sandwich and discover the secret. Josh Rink, a Taste of Home Food Stylist, says the key is in how you prepare the bread. He recommends spreading a mix of mayonnaise and butter on it before grilling.
This trick makes the bread golden brown. It perfectly complements the melted cheese inside. You can use classic cheddar or a mix of cheeses like fontina, gruyere, and gouda. Either way, your sandwich will be a hit with everyone.
7 Delicious Grilled Cheese Variations
- Grilled Cheese with Apples and Brie
- Mediterranean Grilled Cheese with Feta and Olives
- Bacon and Egg Grilled Cheese
- Grilled Cheese with Pesto and Tomatoes
- Philly Cheesesteak Grilled Cheese
- Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Gouda
- Avocado and Pepper Jack Grilled Cheese
These variations will satisfy any cheese lover. Try them with tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food.
| Cheese Varieties | Bread Options | Flavor Boosters |
|---|---|---|
| Cheddar, Gouda, Fontina, Gruyere, Feta, Swiss, Provolone, Muenster, Pepper Jack | Crusty French Bread, Italian Rolls, Tortillas, Pita, Cauliflower Crust | Apples, Pears, Figs, Avocado, Ground Beef, Steak, Ham, Turkey, Bacon, Asparagus, Spinach, Kale, Tomatoes, Peas, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Red Peppers |
“The secret to the perfect grilled cheese sandwich is in the technique.”
– Josh Rink, Taste of Home Food Stylist
Hot Dog Bar: Chicago, Bavarian and Mexican Styles
Make your hot dog bar a hit with three unique styles: Chicago, Bavarian, and Mexican. It’s perfect for laid-back parties and pleases both kids and adults.
Chicago-Style Hot Dogs
Bring the Windy City to your table with Chicago-style hot dogs. Start with all-beef franks. Top them with green relish, sport peppers, tomato wedges, a dill pickle spear, celery salt, and yellow mustard.
Bavarian Hot Dogs
Try Bavarian hot dogs for a taste of Germany. Grill the sausages and serve on soft pretzel buns. Add tangy sauerkraut, Dijon mustard, and shredded Gruyère cheese for a tasty mix.
Mexican-Style Hot Dogs
Give your hot dogs a south-of-the-border twist. Grill the franks and wrap them in warm tortillas. Add refried beans, diced avocado, queso fresco, and a spicy salsa or creamy guacamole.
Let guests customize their hot dogs for a fun dining experience. With these three styles, your hot dog bar will be the party’s highlight.
| Hot Dog Style | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Chicago-Style | All-beef frank, green relish, sport peppers, tomato wedges, dill pickle spear, celery salt, yellow mustard |
| Bavarian | Grilled sausage, pretzel bun, sauerkraut, Dijon mustard, Gruyère cheese |
| Mexican-Style | Grilled frank, warm tortilla, refried beans, avocado, queso fresco, salsa or guacamole |
“Mattie Williamson’s historic recipes were updated for modern cooks, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary cooking techniques.”
Enjoy the flavors of this hot dog bar. Let your guests’ taste buds travel from Chicago to Bavaria to Mexico in one delicious bite.
dinner recipes for picky eaters
Finding tasty dinners that everyone likes can be tough, especially with picky eaters. But don’t worry! This collection of 75 easy, kid-friendly meals has something for everyone. These dinner recipes for picky eaters are sure to please the whole family.
There are comforting pasta and rice dishes, ground beef and chicken favorites, and hearty casseroles. You’ll also find satisfying soups and flavorful roasted meats. These kid-friendly meals are delicious and full of wholesome ingredients, making them a great choice for parents.
Discover simple dinner ideas that are quick to make, like the budget-friendly Classic Stuffed Shells or the Ultimate Two-Beef Chili. Try healthy picky eater recipes like Swedish Meatballs made with ground chicken or Tortellini Meatball Soup for a fancy twist on classics.
When planning meals for fussy eaters, offering choices and customization is key. Try recipes like Slow Cooker Beef Tacos or Mini Meatloaves with Green Beans & Potatoes. These allow everyone to pick what they like.
This collection is full of hidden veggie recipes and creative cooking for children. It’s packed with picky eater approved meals that make mealtime easy. Get ready for new flavorful but mild dishes that everyone will love.
| Recipe | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Hot Dish/Tater Tot Casserole | A beloved dish in the Upper Midwest, perfect for picky eaters |
| Classic Stuffed Shells | Budget-friendly and easy-to-make weeknight dinner that kids enjoy |
| The Ultimate Two-Beef Chili | Hearty ground-beef-and-chuck-roast version that kids love on chili night |
| Bagel Pizzas | A popular last-minute dinner option or snack for picky eaters |
| Swedish Meatballs | Can be made with ground chicken for a healthier alternative |
With these dinner recipes for picky eaters, finding meals everyone will like is easy. Say goodbye to mealtime struggles. Serve up kid-friendly meals that are delicious and nutritious, making mealtime a breeze for everyone.
Easy Beef Sliders for Parties or Dinner
These easy beef sliders are a hit at parties or for a casual weeknight dinner. The meat can be prepped ahead, making them convenient and delicious. Whip up a batch for your next gathering or family meal.
Prep-Ahead Perfection
The best part is the meat can be prepped ahead. Brown the ground beef, mix in seasonings, and store it in the fridge. When ready, layer the beef, cheese, and toppings on soft Hawaiian rolls. It’s a time-saving hack for easy party food or a tasty weeknight dinner.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor
These beef sliders are always a hit. The lean ground beef is seasoned with spices, topped with melty cheddar cheese, and your choice of condiments. The sweet Hawaiian rolls make a soft and pillowy base, pleasing even the pickiest eaters.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kings Hawaiian Sweet Rolls | 1 package |
| Roast Beef | 1 pound |
| Yellow Onion | 1 large |
| Cheddar Cheese Slices | 12 slices |
| Olive Oil | As needed |
| Butter | As needed |
| BBQ Sauce | As needed |
| Everything Bagel Seasoning | As needed |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
With their make-ahead convenience and crowd-pleasing flavor, these easy beef sliders are a must-try. Enjoy these mini burgers as a fun and tasty appetizer or weeknight meal.
Chipotle Mac and Cheese with a Crunch
Spice up your dinner with Colleen Delawder’s Chipotle Mac and Cheese. This twist on the classic comfort food combines creamy mac and cheese with bold chipotle flavors.
Colleen, a home cook from Herndon, Virginia, uses conchiglie pasta. The shell-like shape holds melted cheese. Ground chipotle chile adds heat, while the cheese sauce is rich and creamy.
The crunchy topping makes this dish stand out. Colleen mixes panko breadcrumbs and chopped pecans. This adds a satisfying texture contrast to the smooth cheese sauce.
This recipe is a family favorite, even with picky eaters. It’s a hit at Colleen’s holiday gatherings, loved by both kids and adults.
Looking for a comforting dinner or a party dish? This Chipotle Mac and Cheese with a Crunch is perfect. It offers a great mix of spice, creaminess, and crunch for a satisfying meal.
30-Minute Beef Quesadillas
Craving a quick and tasty dinner? Try these beef quesadillas. They’re ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights. Everyone in your family will love them.
The secret to these 30-minute meal quesadillas is ground beef. Brown it with spices for a flavorful filling. Add shredded cheese and warm tortillas for a cheesy, satisfying meal.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 minutes | 7 minutes | 12 minutes | 4 | 601kcal |
To make these beef quesadillas, cook ground beef with spices. Use a 2:1 ratio of ketchup to mustard. Then, layer the beef and cheese between tortillas. Cook until the cheese melts and tortillas are golden.
Top these 30-minute meal quesadillas with your favorite toppings. Chopped dill pickles or sour cream are great. They’re perfect for busy weeknights. You can also store leftovers for up to five days.
“These quesadillas are a lifesaver on busy weeknights! The ground beef filling is so flavorful, and they come together in no time. My family loves them.”
Next time you need a quick and easy dinner, try these beef quesadillas. They’re a mix of savory beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas. They’ll quickly become a family favorite.
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Get ready for a comforting chicken and broccoli casserole that will be a hit with your family. It’s a creamy, cheesy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, cheesy comfort food blend that’s irresistible.
This family-pleasing meal is quick to make, thanks to Bernice Knutson of Soldier, Iowa, and Joan Hallford of North Richland Hills, Texas. It only takes 20 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. So, you can have it ready in under an hour.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 mins | 30 mins | 50 mins | 8 | 1 2-quart casserole |
This chicken and broccoli casserole is packed with nutrients. It has 474 calories, 30g of fat, 22g of carbs, and 29g of protein per serving. It’s a well-balanced meal that will satisfy your family’s hunger.
The secret to its flavor is the mix of ingredients. It includes fresh mushrooms, provolone cheese, and water chestnuts. For a twist, use Cream of Broccoli or Cheddar cheese soup instead of Cream of Chicken. Sprinkle French fried onions or corn flakes on top for a crunchy topping.
Bake it for 20-25 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly. Then, serve this cheesy comfort food to your loved ones. Its mix of flavors and textures will make it a favorite in your home.
Conclusion
This collection of 75 easy, kid-friendly dinner recipes is perfect for busy parents. It includes classic comfort foods like baked spaghetti and grilled cheese. It also has creative twists on tacos and chicken nuggets.
These simple, flavorful meals are sure to become family favorites. With make-ahead and 30-minute meal options, mealtime is easier than ever. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just your family, these recipes will make your life easier.
By using tricks like sneaking in extra veggies, you can get even the pickiest eaters to try new foods. These recipes focus on both taste and nutrition. So, mealtime can be both fun and healthy.
So, get ready to cook up some delicious meals with your family. With a bit of creativity and these recipes, your kids will be asking for more. Happy cooking!