14 Kid-Approved Dinners So Good, You’ll Want Them Too
Looking for quick and easy dinner recipes that your kids will actually eat? Check out these kid-approved recipes that are both delicious and simple to make! From cheesy pasta dishes to crispy chicken nuggets, these meals are guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for busy weeknights, these recipes will save you time in the kitchen while keeping everyone happy at the dinner table!
Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese
This creamy, cheesy macaroni dish brings the comfort of a restaurant favorite right to your kitchen. Its quick preparation makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you need a meal kids will enjoy. The combination of rich cheese and tender pasta is easy for little ones to eat, making it a sure hit with the whole family. Plus, it’s simple enough for parents to prepare without a lot of hassle.
Get the Recipe: Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese
Taco Spaghetti Skillet
This flavorful skillet meal combines the fun of tacos with the heartiness of spaghetti, creating a dish kids love to dig into. It’s a one-pan wonder, which makes cleanup quick and simple after dinner. With seasoned beef and a delicious mix of cheese, this meal can be ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, too!
Get the Recipe: Taco Spaghetti Skillet
Chicken Roll Ups
Tender chicken wrapped in a soft tortilla and baked to perfection – this meal is as fun to eat as it is easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is a great option for a busy lunch or dinner. Kids love the individual portions and the ability to customize with their favorite fillings. It’s a kid-friendly meal that requires little hands-on time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Roll Ups
Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
These crispy chicken nuggets are a healthier take on the classic fast-food favorite, thanks to the air fryer. The quick cooking time means they’re ready in under 20 minutes, making them a perfect choice for busy nights. The crunchy outside and tender inside make them an easy favorite for little eaters, and the air fryer keeps things simple and mess-free. These nuggets are great for dipping and serving with various sides.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
This slow-cooked mac and cheese recipe makes a creamy and comforting dish with minimal effort. Simply toss all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic, leaving you more time for other tasks. The end result is a rich, cheesy pasta that kids will devour. It’s an easy and convenient way to make a crowd-pleasing meal with very little prep work involved.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Individual Lasagna
This twist on traditional lasagna features individual portions that are perfect for little hands and picky eaters. Layered with rich marinara, cheese, and savory meat, it’s a simple and hearty meal that doesn’t take long to prepare. Each portion is filling yet manageable for younger appetites, and it’s a fun way to introduce kids to a classic dish. These personal lasagnas bake in a fraction of the time.
Get the Recipe: Individual Lasagna
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These homemade chicken tenders are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, made easy with the air fryer. The cooking process is quick, taking only about 15-20 minutes, which is perfect for hectic nights. The crunchy breading is something kids can’t resist, and the air fryer eliminates the need for messy oil. Serve them with a simple dipping sauce for a meal that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
This casserole combines creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and tender chicken in one hearty dish that’s bound to be a hit. It’s easy to throw together and bakes quickly, making it a great option for families on the go. With its cheesy, comforting flavors, this meal feels like a treat, but it’s also simple enough for any busy parent to whip up. It’s the kind of dish everyone will look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Crock Pot Tomato Soup
This slow-cooked tomato soup is a cozy and comforting meal that kids will love. The crockpot does all the work, simmering the tomatoes and seasoning to create a rich, flavorful base that’s smooth and easy to eat. Ready when you are, this soup can be paired with grilled cheese or served alone for a quick meal. The hands-off cooking method makes it a stress-free option for a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Tomato Soup
Alfredo Steak Pasta
This creamy Alfredo pasta paired with tender steak is a meal that feels like a special treat but is easy to prepare. The combination of hearty pasta and rich sauce is a kid-friendly favorite, especially with the added protein from the steak. It’s a filling meal that comes together quickly, perfect for a satisfying dinner after a long day. With minimal prep time, it’s a great choice for families looking for a hearty dish.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
This one-pan pasta dish combines ground beef with noodles and a flavorful sauce for a quick, simple meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a great option for a family dinner with minimal effort. The savory meat and pasta are familiar flavors that are easy for kids to enjoy, and cleanup is a breeze with just one skillet to wash. It’s the perfect comfort food for busy parents and hungry kids alike.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Meatball Pasta Bake
This hearty bake combines tender meatballs, pasta, and a cheesy sauce in one satisfying dish. It’s an easy way to feed the family a comforting meal that’s both filling and flavorful. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a great go-to for busy nights. The cheesy topping adds just the right amount of indulgence, making it a meal that kids will eagerly dig into.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Pasta Bake
Penne Pasta Bake
This penne pasta bake is a delicious combination of pasta, cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce, baked to perfection. The dish is easy to prepare and doesn’t take long to cook, making it a quick dinner option that will satisfy everyone at the table. Its familiar flavors make it a hit with kids, and it’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for leftovers, too. It’s an effortless way to bring the family together for a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pasta Bake
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This comforting soup combines tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi in a creamy broth, perfect for a warm, hearty meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be made in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. The soft gnocchi and creamy base are familiar and appealing to kids, while still offering a little variety. It’s a cozy meal that’s filling without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup