Planning meals that kids will enjoy can sometimes feel like a daunting task. However, it’s entirely possible to create delicious and nutritious dinners that the whole family will love. Below are three diverse examples of kid-approved dinner recipes that are easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
These cheesy veggie quesadillas are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family meal. Packed with colorful veggies and melty cheese, they’re not just tasty; they’re also a great way to sneak in some nutrition!
Start by heating a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Spread a tortilla in the skillet, and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on one half. Add finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, and corn on top of the cheese. Fold the tortilla over and cook for about 2-3 minutes, flipping once, until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa or guacamole.
Variations: Feel free to swap in your kids’ favorite veggies or add cooked chicken for extra protein. You can also use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
Mini meatloaf muffins are a fun twist on the classic meatloaf and are perfect for portion control. Kids will love their individual sizes, and they can even help shape the muffins!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef or turkey, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of milk, 1 egg, 1/4 cup of ketchup, and your favorite seasonings (such as garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper). Mix until just combined. Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray and fill each cup with the meat mixture, about 3/4 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli.
Notes: You can mix in shredded vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition. These muffins also freeze well, making them great for meal prep!
This rainbow pasta salad is not only visually appealing but also a great way to get kids excited about eating their veggies! It’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course.
Cook 8 ounces of pasta (like rotini or bowties) according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, chop an assortment of colorful vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. In a large bowl, combine the pasta with the chopped veggies, a handful of olives, and some cubed mozzarella cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and a splash of vinegar, then toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variations: You can add protein like diced grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal. Experiment with different dressings to keep things interesting!
These examples of kid-approved dinner recipes are sure to make mealtime enjoyable for the whole family. Happy cooking!