As a dad of three, I know the struggle of getting dinner on the table after a long day. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of 17 quick and easy kid-friendly dinners that have been lifesavers in our household.
These recipes are not just fast to prepare but also packed with flavors that even the pickiest eaters will love.
Quick and Easy Classics
1- Skillet Cheeseburger Hot Dish
This Skillet Cheeseburger Hot Dish is a true crowd-pleaser in our home. It combines all the flavors of a cheeseburger with the comfort of a casserole. My kids go crazy for the crispy tater tot topping, and I love how easy it is to throw together on busy weeknights.
Check out the full recipe here.
2- Sloppy Joe Toasts
Sloppy Joes were a staple in my childhood, and now I’ve given them a fun twist with these Sloppy Joe Toasts. The crispy toast adds a nice crunch that complements the saucy beef mixture perfectly. It’s become a regular in our dinner rotation because it’s so quick to make.
Check out the full recipe here.
3- Chicken Fingers
Who doesn’t love chicken fingers? This homemade version is healthier than fast food and just as delicious. My kids love helping to bread the chicken, making it a fun family activity. Pair it with some veggie sticks, and you’ve got a balanced meal in no time.
Check out the full recipe here.
Pasta and Comfort Food
4- Pasta e Piselli
This elevated mac ‘n cheese recipe has become a family favorite. The addition of peas sneaks in some veggies, and the Parmesan gives it a sophisticated touch that adults will appreciate too. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for those nights when you’re running short on time.
Check out the full recipe here.
5- Creamy Corn Pasta
If your kids are like mine and love corn on the cob, this creamy corn pasta will be a hit. It’s a great way to use up leftover corn from summer barbecues. The creamy sauce and fluffy cheese topping make it irresistible to kids and adults alike.
Check out the full recipe here.
6- Lazy Lasagna
This lazy lasagna is a genius shortcut to traditional lasagna. Using frozen ravioli cuts down on prep time significantly, but you still get all the cheesy, saucy goodness of the classic dish. It’s become my go-to when I’m craving comfort food but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Check out the full recipe here.
One-Pot Wonders
7- One Pot Pizza Pasta
This One Pot Pizza Pasta is a game-changer for busy parents. It combines two kid favorites – pizza and pasta – in one easy dish. The best part? It’s ready in just 15 minutes, and there’s only one pot to clean up afterward. Win-win!
Check out the full recipe here.
8- Stovetop Beef and Shells
This stovetop beef and shells recipe is a complete meal in one pot. The fun pasta shape makes it appealing to kids, while the beef and veggies ensure it’s nutritious. It’s become my secret weapon for those nights when I need to get dinner on the table fast.
Check out the full recipe here.
Sheet Pan and Oven Delights
9- Sheet Pan Chicken With Apples and Delicata Squash
This sheet pan meal is a fall favorite in our house. The combination of chicken, apples, and squash is delicious and nutritious. Plus, the easy cleanup makes it perfect for busy weeknights. My kids love the sweet flavor the apples bring to the dish.
Check out the full recipe here.
10- Cheeseburger Biscuit Bombs
These cheeseburger biscuit bombs are always a hit with the kids. They’re like little handheld cheeseburgers, making them perfect for tiny hands. The addition of pickles and bacon gives them a flavor boost that even adults will love.
Check out the full recipe here.
Breakfast for Dinner
11- Sweet Potato Breakfast Burritos
Breakfast for dinner is always exciting, and these sweet potato breakfast burritos are no exception. They’re packed with protein and veggies, making them a nutritious choice. I like to make a big batch and freeze them for easy reheating on busy nights.
Check out the full recipe here.
12- Sausage and Egg Sandwiches
These sausage and egg sandwiches are a fun twist on breakfast for dinner. The piquanté peppers add a nice flavor kick, but you can easily leave them out for kids who prefer milder tastes. It’s a versatile recipe that you can customize to your family’s preferences.
Check out the full recipe here.
International Flavors
13- Five-Spice Steak and Broccoli
This homemade version of beef and broccoli is better than takeout. The five-spice powder gives it a unique flavor that my kids surprisingly love. It’s a great way to introduce new flavors to your family’s palate.
Check out the full recipe here.
14-Ingredient Homemade Teriyaki Bowl
This teriyaki bowl is a quick and healthy option that’s become a staple in our meal rotation. With just 10 ingredients and 10 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for those nights when you’re tempted to order takeout. The sweet teriyaki sauce makes it a hit with kids.
Check out the full recipe here.
Fun and Interactive Meals
15- Waffle-Iron Pizzas
These waffle-iron pizzas are a fun twist on traditional pizza night. Kids love the unique shape, and I love how quick they are to make. It’s a great recipe to let older kids help with, as they can customize their own toppings.
Check out the full recipe here.
16- Tacos on a Stick
Tacos on a stick are always a hit in our house. There’s something about food on skewers that makes kids excited to eat. It’s a fun, interactive meal that encourages kids to try different toppings and flavors.
Check out the full recipe here.
17- Garlic Toast Pizzas
These garlic toast pizzas are a lifesaver on busy nights. Using frozen garlic toast as the base makes them super quick to prepare. My older kids can even make these themselves, which is a big help when I’m running late from work.
Check out the full recipe here.
These 17 quick and easy kid-friendly dinner ideas have been real game-changers in our household. They’ve saved countless weeknights and have even gotten my pickiest eater to try new foods. Remember, the key to successful family dinners is keeping things simple, fun, and delicious. Happy cooking!
