Finding quick and healthy dinner options that kids will love can be a daunting task, especially when you’re short on time. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll share 20 easy and nutritious recipes that are perfect for busy families with little ones. From cheesy pasta bakes to mini pizza bagels, these kid-friendly meals are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Whether you’re looking for a way to sneak in some extra veggies or just need a stress-free solution for a weeknight dinner, we’ve got recipes that cater to all your needs. And the best part? These meals are quick, easy, and can be prepared in no more than 30 minutes!
Stay tuned for our top picks and get ready to impress your family with these tasty and nutritious dinner ideas.
Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Bake
This classic pasta bake combines al dente noodles with steamed broccoli, rich cheddar cheese, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that’s sure to please the whole family!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Steam broccoli florets until tender. Set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and butter until fragrant.
5. Add cooked pasta, broccoli, milk, cheddar cheese, and parsley to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Pizza Bagels
A simple and delicious snack that’s perfect for parties or a quick lunch. These mini pizzas are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of bagel minis (about 12-15 bagels)
– 1 cup of pizza sauce
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, etc.)
– Optional: chopped fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the bagel minis in half and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Spread about 1-2 teaspoons of pizza sauce on each bagel half.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Add your desired toppings.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
8. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe is a perfect blend of protein, color, and flavor, making it an excellent option for a busy weeknight dinner. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you can have a nutritious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, mixed veggies, and soy sauce to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the veggies are tender-crisp.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the veggies.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Enjoy your quick and delicious Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry!
Turkey Meatball Sliders
Elevate your slider game with these savory turkey meatballs served on soft buns and topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 slider buns
• Mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them around to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Split slider buns in half and toast lightly.
7. Assemble sliders by placing a turkey meatball on each bun, topping with melted mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Hidden Veggies
This classic comfort food gets a nutritious boost by hiding finely chopped veggies in the cheesy sauce. Kids will love it, and parents will appreciate the extra dose of vitamins!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 small carrot, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and carrot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in grated cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Satisfy your cravings with this classic comfort food combination: crispy grilled cheese sandwiches paired with a warm, creamy tomato soup. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 slices of cheese (Cheddar, American, or your favorite)
– 1 large can of condensed cream of tomato soup
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheese and another bread slice, butter-side up.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. In a separate pot, combine tomato soup and milk. Heat over low until warmed through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled cheese sandwiches: 4-5 minutes total
– Tomato soup: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Homemade Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Summary:
Take a break from store-bought nuggets and try making your own at home! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create deliciously crispy and juicy chicken nuggets that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then into the beaten egg, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taco Tuesday Quesadillas
These cheesy, flavorful quesadillas are the perfect treat to brighten up your Taco Tuesday. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these tasty wraps in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1 cup cooked ground beef (or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Add the cooked ground beef (or beans), diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño on top of the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spaghetti with Secret Veggie Sauce
Discover a game-changing twist on classic spaghetti with this innovative veggie-packed sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 small red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small yellow squash, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced veggies and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Sticks with Sweet Potato Fries
These crispy fish sticks paired with sweet potato fries make a tasty and easy meal for the whole family. This recipe requires minimal effort, but yields maximum flavor!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock), cut into stick shapes
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip fish sticks into beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place coated fish sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, slice sweet potatoes into fry shapes. Toss with oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 32-40 minutes
Cheesy Spinach Quesadillas
These cheesy spinach quesadillas are a flavorful and satisfying snack or meal that combines the best of Mexican cuisine with the nutritional benefits of spinach. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and cumin.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-fourth of the spinach mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
Pizza Roll-Ups
A twist on traditional pizza, these roll-ups combine the flavors of melted mozzarella and savory tomato sauce with crispy tortilla wraps.
Ingredients:
• 8-10 tortillas
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce.
3. Lay a tortilla flat on a work surface. Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of the cheese-sauce mixture along the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border at each end.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil over the filling.
5. Roll up the tortilla tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a neat roll.
6. Place rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the rolls and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortillas are crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend brunch, this chicken fried rice recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking time, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the pan; add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Mini Burgers with Veggie Toppings
These bite-sized burgers are packed with flavor and topped with a colorful medley of vegetables, making them perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 8 mini hamburger buns
– Veggie toppings (choose 3-4):
+ Thinly sliced red bell peppers
+ Sliced mushrooms
+ Thinly sliced zucchini
+ Chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a mini burger.
4. Grill burgers for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble burgers on buns with chosen veggie toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian dish gets a pop of color and flavor with the addition of sweet cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the pesto sauce over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the pesto and tomato mixture. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Chicken Tenders
Moist and flavorful chicken tenders with a crispy exterior, baked to perfection!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
– 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). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Veggie-Loaded Macaroni Casserole
This hearty casserole is a perfect blend of comforting pasta, flavorful vegetables, and creamy cheese. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and onions)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 skillet, sauté mixed vegetables in butter until tender. Add milk, basil, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. Combine cooked macaroni, vegetable mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Get ready to roll up a delicious snack with this simple and satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of croissant dough (thawed)
– 2 slices of cooked ham, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the croissant dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Spread the cream cheese over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top the cream cheese with the sliced ham and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a pinwheel shape. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chicken Bites
Sweet and Sour Chicken Bites Recipe
A flavorful and crispy appetizer or snack that combines juicy chicken with a tangy sweet and sour sauce. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a quick bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry the chicken bites in batches until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with sweet and sour sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Tots
Transform cauliflower into crispy, cheesy tots that will satisfy your snack cravings! This recipe is a game-changer for veggie lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove any leaves. Cut into small florets.
3. In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Toss the cauliflower florets in the mixture until evenly coated.
4. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the cauliflower.
7. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your little ones with these 20 quick and easy dinner recipes that are both delicious and nutritious! From classic comfort food like mac and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches, to healthier twists on favorite dishes like veggie-loaded pasta bakes and baked chicken tenders. These kid-friendly meals are perfect for busy families who want to serve up a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor or fun. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or a little more adventurous, there’s something here for everyone!
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