dinner recipes for picky eaters. As a busy parent, finding dinner recipes for picky eaters can be tough. Mealtime often turns into a battle, especially when kids dislike anything green. But, this collection of dinner recipes for fussy eaters is here to help.
You’ll find lots of kid-friendly dinner ideas, family-friendly recipes, and healthy meals for picky eaters here. There are pasta dishes, casseroles, chicken-based meals, and one-pot wonders. These quick and easy recipes are perfect for your fussy eater-approved dishes.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a wide range of dinner recipes for fussy eaters that the whole family will love.
- Explore quick and easy recipes with minimal prep time that are perfect for busy weeknights.
- Find kid-friendly dinner ideas that cater to the unique tastes and preferences of picky eaters.
- Uncover healthy meals for picky eaters that sneak in extra veggies without sacrificing flavor.
- Enjoy family-friendly recipes that are sure to become new household favorites.
Baked Spaghetti: A Cozy Family Favorite
Imagine a warm, dinner recipes for fussy eaters comforting dish that brings your family together on a chilly winter evening. That’s exactly what baked spaghetti is – a beloved recipe passed down through generations. It’s cherished by my grandchildren as their most-loved meal. This cozy family favorite combines tender pasta, savory sauce, and melted cheese into a satisfying casserole.
The key to this easy pasta dish is the perfect balance of ingredients. We start with 16 ounces of dried spaghetti noodles. Then, we mix in 1 cup of diced yellow onion, 4 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 1/2 pounds of sweet Italian sausage. The savory elements are then complemented by 6 cups of homemade marinara sauce (or 2 jars of store-bought variety).
dinner recipes for fussy eaters . We also add a creamy combination of 8 ounces each of cottage cheese and cream cheese, along with 1/4 cup of sour cream. To top it off, we sprinkle 3 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and dot the dish with slices of 1/2 cup of butter. After a bake time of 35-45 minutes in a 350°F oven, the result is a cozy, winter dinner idea that’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it up with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete kids’ favorite recipe that’s perfect for any baked spaghetti night.
“This baked spaghetti dish is a true crowd-pleaser and has been a staple in our family for years. It’s the perfect cozy family meal for those chilly winter nights when you want something hearty and comforting.”
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried Spaghetti Noodles | 16 ounces |
| Yellow Onion, diced | 1 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Sweet Italian Sausage | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Homemade Marinara Sauce | 6 cups |
| Cottage Cheese | 8 ounces |
| Cream Cheese | 8 ounces |
| Sour Cream | 1/4 cup |
| Dried Italian Seasoning | 3 teaspoons |
| Shredded Mozzarella Cheese | 3 cups, divided |
| Butter, sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Total Cook Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
dinner recipes for fussy eaters Want to make Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets at home? This recipe is a hit with families. It’s easy to make with ingredients you probably have.
To make these nuggets, you need 1 pound of chicken breasts or tenderloins. Cut them into small pieces. Season with paprika, pepper, and salt. Then, coat in a light batter and fry until golden.
The honey mustard dipping sauce is amazing too. It’s made with Dijon mustard and honey. This sauce is great with the chicken. You can make it ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to two weeks.
These nuggets are not only tasty but also healthy. Each serving has 253 calories, 18 grams of carbs, 19 grams of protein, and 11 grams of fat. They’re perfect for dinner or as an appetizer.
Ready to make these delicious nuggets? They’re a favorite at home. Enjoy the taste of your favorite fast food, made in your kitchen.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins | 1 pound |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Mayonnaise | 1/3 cup |
| Yellow mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| Honey | 3 tablespoons |
| Peanut or canola oil for frying | 1-2 cups |
To make the perfect copycat Chick-fil-A nuggets, follow these simple steps:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, about 1-2 inches in size.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the paprika, black pepper, and salt. Toss the chicken pieces in the seasoning mixture until well coated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and honey to create the dipping sauce. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- In a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1-2 cups of peanut or canola oil to 350°F.
- Working in batches, fry the seasoned chicken nuggets for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain the nuggets on a paper towel-lined plate and serve warm, with the honey mustard dipping sauce on the side.
Enjoy these copycat Chick-fil-A nuggets with your family. They’re perfect for a quick dinner or a fun appetizer. This recipe is sure to please everyone.
Pizza Casserole: A Kid-Friendly Mashup
Kids adore this pizza casserole because it mixes their favorite fast foods – pizza and pasta. It’s a tasty, simple dish made with just four ingredients. This kid-friendly casserole is a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients and Prep
To make this fast food mashup, you’ll need:
- 2 cans refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
- 1 (15oz) jar pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 pound Italian sausage (optional)
The prep time is 10 minutes, and cook time is 25 minutes. This makes it an easy family dinner choice.
Assembly and Baking
To assemble the pizza casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Tear or cut the biscuits into bite-sized pieces and place them in the prepared dish.
- Top the biscuits with the pizza sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- If using Italian sausage, crumble it over the top.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Keep an eye on the biscuits in the center. They might need more time to cook, depending on your baking dish.
Flavor Variations
To make this 4-ingredient pizza casserole your own, add your favorite toppings. Try pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers. You can also sprinkle on Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes for extra taste.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an air fryer for a quick lunch or dinner.
“This pizza casserole is a hit with my kids because it combines two of their favorite fast foods – pizza and pasta – into one easy-to-make dish.” – Lisa Longley, Recipe Author
The Ultimate Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Craving a classic comfort food that’s both indulgent and satisfying? Look no further than the humble grilled cheese sandwich. dinner recipes for fussy eaters This beloved dish is a timeless favorite. It can be elevated with a simple technique – spreading a mixture of mayonnaise and butter on the bread. This creates a delightfully crispy grilled cheese crust.
The key to achieving the perfect grilled cheese sandwich lies in the preparation. Start by grating 1 cup (3 ounces) of sharp cheddar cheese, the recommended amount for this recipe. Add 2 teaspoons of finely chopped green onions, the green parts only, for a pop of flavor. Spread about 1 1/2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard on one side of each slice of bread. This will lend a tangy kick to the sandwich.
Melt approximately 2 teaspoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich, mustard-side down, in the hot pan. If you’d like an extra crispy grilled cheese crust, sprinkle a little more grated cheddar cheese in the skillet. Press the sandwich onto it until the cheese melts. Flip the sandwich and cook for several minutes on each side, adjusting the heat as needed to avoid burning the bread.
The result is a classic comfort food that delivers on both texture and taste. Enjoy this grilled cheese sandwich as a satisfying lunch or a comforting dinner. Savor the buttery, cheesy goodness in every bite.
“Spreading a mixture of mayonnaise and butter on the bread creates a delightfully crispy crust with the well-loved, wonderful flavor of butter one expects on a grilled cheese sandwich.”
– Josh Rink, Taste of Home Food Stylist
Fun Hot Dog Variations
Ready to take your hot dog game to the next level? These fun and creative hot dog recipes are perfect for any party. They’re sure to make your taste buds happy and impress your guests.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Hot dogs are a favorite in American food. This collection of recipes makes them even better. Try the Chicago-style hot dog or the Bavarian-inspired version. Or, go for the spicy south-of-the-border hot dogs or the cheesy, bacony, chili ones.
With over 30 unique hot dog recipes, you’ll always have something new to try. Enjoy Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket or Polynesian Sweet and Sour Hot Dogs. And don’t forget to add your favorite toppings for endless possibilities.
These hot dog variations are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a big party or a quick dinner, they’re sure to please. So, fire up the grill and get ready to explore these fun hot dog recipes, hot dog variations, and party food ideas that celebrate American classics.
Cheesy Ravioli Casserole: A Simple Family Pleaser
Struggling to find a dinner that everyone likes? The cheesy ravioli casserole is here to save the day. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that will quickly become a favorite.
This ravioli casserole is like a tasty easy lasagna alternative. It uses pre-made spaghetti sauce and frozen ravioli. You can have a delicious, family-friendly casserole ready in just 30 minutes.
The magic of this 30-minute meal lies in its mix of tender ravioli, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a comforting, cheesy dish that everyone will enjoy. It’s also easy to make and clean up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread a layer of your favorite spaghetti sauce.
- Top the sauce with a layer of frozen cheese ravioli.
- Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layers of sauce, ravioli, and cheese until you’ve used up all the ingredients.
- Bake the ravioli casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve and enjoy your delicious, family-friendly dinner!
“This ravioli casserole is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s so easy to throw together, dinner recipes for fussy eaters and my kids always gobble it up!”
The cheesy ravioli casserole is a hit with its cheesy goodness and quick prep. It’s a great easy lasagna alternative that will have your family asking for more. Try it tonight for a tasty, 30-minute meal that everyone will love.
Slider Burgers: Miniature Delights
Source: These sliders are super easy to put together and are always a hit !
Slider burgers are a top pick for easy party food and crowd-pleasers. They pack big burger flavors into small bites, ideal for any event. Their size and variety make them a hit with everyone dinner recipes for fussy eaters.
Preparing slider burgers is a breeze. They cook fast, thanks to their small size. dinner recipes for fussy eaters You can top them with anything from cheese and pickles to unique combos. This lets you tailor flavors to everyone’s taste dinner recipes for fussy eaters.
Hawaiian rolls are a favorite for slider buns. They’re soft and fluffy, matching the patty’s heartiness. The rolls’ size also lets you offer many slider types without overwhelming guests dinner recipes for fussy eaters.
| Slider Recipes | Filling Options | Topping Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Cheeseburger Sliders | Ground beef patties | Cheddar cheese, pickles, onions |
| BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders | Slow-cooked pulled pork | Coleslaw, crispy onions, BBQ sauce |
| Philly Cheesesteak Sliders | Shaved steak, sautéed peppers and onions | Provolone cheese, mayonnaise |
Slider burgers are perfect for any event, from backyard gatherings to game days. Their small size, customizable toppings, and appeal make them a favorite. Enjoy these slider burgers, mini burgers, and find the best easy party foodand crowd-pleasing recipes for your guests.
dinner recipes for fussy eaters: Chipotle Mac and Cheese
Colleen Delawder’s chipotle mac and cheese is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for families with picky eaters. It uses conchiglie pasta, where melted cheese pools inside the shell-shaped noodles.dinner recipes for fussy eaters This creates a satisfying and kid-friendly meal. The smoky heat from the ground chipotle chile adds a subtle kick, while the blend of cheeses provides a comforting creaminess.
This mac and cheese recipe is a great way to sneak in some hidden veggies. dinner recipes for fussy eaters It calls for roasted brussels sprouts to be mixed into the pasta. The nutty flavor and firm texture of the brussels sprouts complement the rich and creamy cheese sauce. For an extra boost of nutrition, the dish also features a blend of nutritional yeast and chickpea miso. These add a savory umami note without overpowering the other flavors.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd of fussy eaters or simply craving a comforting family-friendly pasta dish, dinner recipes for fussy eaters Delawder’s Chipotle Mac and Cheese is sure to satisfy. The recipe’s blend of kid-approved flavors and hidden vegetable components makes it a must-try for parents seeking new ways to introduce more nutrition into their little ones’ diets.
FAQ
What are some easy and delicious dinner recipes for fussy eaters that the whole family will love?
This collection has simple, kid-friendly dishes for busy weeknights. You’ll find pasta, rice, ground beef, chicken, casseroles, and one-pot meals. dinner recipes for fussy eaters They’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
What is the most-loved dish by Louise Miller’s grandchildren?
The baked spaghetti is Louise Miller’s grandchildren’s favorite. It’s a cozy winter dish with tender pasta, savory sauce, and melted cheese.
How did Jeni Pittard develop a recipe to copycat Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets?
Jeni Pittard created a recipe for Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets. The first time she made them, the whole family wanted the last one. She also made a tasty dipping sauce with barbecue sauce, Dijon mustard, and honey dinner recipes for fussy eaters.
What makes Karen Owen’s pizza casserole a winner with the little ones?
Karen Owen’s pizza casserole is a hit with kids. It combines pizza and pasta into one easy dish with just four ingredients.
How does spreading a mixture of mayonnaise and butter on the bread create a delightfully crispy crust for a grilled cheese sandwich?
Spreading mayonnaise and butter on the bread makes the crust crispy. It adds the wonderful flavor of butter dinner recipes for fussy eaters, says Josh Rink, Taste of Home Food Stylist.
How do the Taste of Home Test Kitchen turn hot dogs, an American favorite, into a fun treat for a laid-back party?
The Taste of Home Test Kitchen turns hot dogs into a fun party treat. They offer three special treatments: Chicago-style, Bavarian, and south of the border.
What makes Mary Ann Rothert’s cheesy ravioli casserole a cinch to fix and a family favorite?
Mary Ann Rothert’s cheesy ravioli casserole is easy to make. It uses prepared spaghetti sauce and frozen ravioli. The cheesy flavor is a hit with the family dinner recipes for fussy eaters.
Why does April Lee Wiencek love her slider burgers?
April Lee Wiencek loves her slider burgers because they’re easy to make. They’re perfect for parties, dinner, or game day, without going to a restaurant.
What makes Colleen Delawder’s chipotle mac and cheese a delicious and satisfying meal for picky eaters?
Colleen Delawder’s chipotle mac and cheese is flavorful. It uses conchiglie pasta for more cheese to pool inside. It’s a satisfying meal for picky eaters dinner recipes for fussy eaters.
Source Links
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- 75 Dinner Ideas for Picky Eaters – The Seasoned Mom – https://www.theseasonedmom.com/dinner-ideas-for-picky-eaters/
- Million Dollar Spaghetti – https://www.gonnawantseconds.com/million-dollar-spaghetti-2-2/
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- Family Friendly Comfort Food – My Fussy Eater | Easy Family Recipes – https://www.myfussyeater.com/family-friendly-comfort-food/
- Chick-Fil-A Chicken Nuggets – https://gimmedelicious.com/chick-fil-a-nuggets-copy-cat-recipe-with-honey-mustard-dipping-sauce/
- Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets – https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/copycat-chick-fil-a-chicken-nuggets/
- Copycat Chick Fil A Nuggets – https://lilluna.com/copycat-chik-fil-a-nuggets/
- Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole – https://www.thelazydish.com/easy-pizza-dinner-casserole-made-with-biscuits/
- One Pot Pizza Casserole – https://www.simplejoy.com/one-pot-pizza-casserole/
- Easy Pizza Casserole Recipe – https://jordosworld.com/easy-pizza-casserole-recipe/
- Favorite Grilled Cheese Sandwich – https://cookieandkate.com/favorite-grilled-cheese-sandwich-recipe/
- Kids in the Kitchen – Healthy Veggie Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Inner Child Fun – https://innerchildfun.com/2013/04/kids-in-the-kitchen-healthy-veggie-grilled-cheese-sandwiches.html
- 35 Ways to Take Hot Dogs to the Next Level – https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/fun-hot-dog-recipes/
- 47 Wild-Slash-Brilliant Ways To Cook & Eat Hot Dogs – https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/g2865/hot-dogs/
- 27 Hot Dog Recipes You Need to Try – https://tinybeans.com/creative-hot-dog-recipes/
- Lazy Baked Frozen Ravioli Lasagna (With Cheese Ravioli) | Front Range Fed – https://www.frontrangefed.com/lazy-baked-lasagna-with-frozen-cheese-ravioli/
- Top 10 baked ravioli casserole ideas and inspiration – https://www.pinterest.com/ideas/baked-ravioli-casserole/921157785750/
- The Best Slider Recipes – https://overthefirecooking.com/slider-recipes/
- 50 Mini Foods that are Big on Flavor – https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/mini-foods/
- Chipotle Mac & Cheese With Roasted Brussel Sprouts – Post Punk Kitchen – Isa Chandra Moskowitz – https://www.theppk.com/2013/06/chipotle-mac-cheese-with-roasted-brussel-sprouts/comment-page-4/
- Chipotle Bacon Mac and Cheese – https://lefoodsnob.org/2013/12/30/chipotle-bacon-mac-and-cheese/
