Quick and Easy Flavorful Dinner Ideas for Kids
Getting dinner on the table for kids doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little planning, you can whip up kid-friendly meals in no time. One easy option is burritos or quesadillas. Simply cook some rice and beans, shred some cheese and lettuce, and lay out bowls of salsa, guacamole, sour cream and any other toppings your kids like. Let each person assemble their own burrito or quesadilla. Another quick kid pleaser is pasta. Boil some pasta, then toss with pasta sauce, shredded cheese and vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers. You can also make pasta more fun by shaping it into letters or animals.
For mini pizzas, use English muffins, bagels or pita bread as the base. Top with pizza or pasta sauce, cheese and your kids’ favorite toppings like pepperoni, olives or pineapple. Broil for a few minutes until the cheese is melted. Kids also love sliders or mini sandwiches. Cook up hamburger patties, chicken breasts or meatballs and serve them on small buns with cheese, lettuce and condiments. Soup and grilled cheese sandwiches are always a comforting option. You can also do soup and half sandwiches to make it a bit lighter.
Tacos are another easy kid-friendly dinner. Provide tortillas, ground beef or turkey, cheese, lettuce and salsa and let everyone assemble their own tacos. For extra nutrition, add in beans, rice and grilled veggies. Kids will also gobble up tuna or chicken salad sandwiches. Simply mix canned tuna or chicken with mayonnaise and season with lemon juice, herbs and celery. Serve the salad on bread, in pita pockets or on a bed of lettuce.
Pancakes or waffles for dinner are always a treat. Top them with fresh or frozen fruit, whipped cream, maple syrup or chocolate chips for extra decadence. Kids will love breakfast for dinner. Scrambled eggs or an omelet also make a satisfying quick dinner. Add in cheese, vegetables and meat or beans for a heartier meal.
Grilled cheese sandwiches with a side of fruit or soup are always comforting. For extra nutrition, use whole grain bread and add tomato slices, spinach and avocado to the sandwiches. Quesadillas or burritos with beans, rice, salsa and cheese are also easy to make and kid-friendly.
Pasta in a creamy tomato sauce or pesto is delicious and satisfying. Toss with parmesan cheese, basil and vegetables. Mini meatballs, grilled chicken or shrimp also pair well with pasta. Pizza or flatbread topped with sauce and cheese then broiled is always a kid favorite. Add veggies and meat for extra nutrition.
Smoothies made with yogurt or milk, fruit and a little honey are a refreshing dinner option on hot nights. Add extras like nut butter, protein powder, greens or flaxseed for nutrition. Grilled cheese sandwiches, soup, tacos or omelets are other easy, kid-friendly dinners perfect for hot summer nights.
With some simple ingredients on hand, you can make chicken noodle soup, beef stew, chili or jambalaya in under 30 minutes. Serve the hearty soups with a simple salad or crusty bread. Pancakes, waffles, French toast or crepes topped with fruit, whipped cream or chocolate are easy, kid-friendly dinners perfect for relaxed mornings or weekends.
Scrambled eggs or an omelet are satisfying dinners ready in minutes. Add in cheese, diced ham, spinach and tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor. Serve with toast, hash browns or fresh fruit.Quesadillas or burritos with beans, rice, salsa and cheese are also easy, kid-friendly dinners. Provide tortillas and a variety of fillings and let each person assemble their own.
Pasta tossed with butter, parmesan and vegetables is a classic, comforting dinner. For extra protein, add cooked chicken, shrimp or meatballs. Garlic bread and a salad complete the meal. Mini pizzas or flatbreads topped with sauce and cheese then broiled are always a kid favorite. Add meat and veggies for a heartier dinner.
Smoothies made with milk or yogurt, fruit and a little honey satisfy when you’re short on time. Add nut butter, protein powder or flaxseed for nutrition. Grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas or scrambled eggs also make easy, kid-friendly dinners. Serve with soup, salad or fresh fruit.
With some rice or pasta, jarred sauce and parmesan cheese you can make a satisfying dinner in minutes. Round out the meal with a simple salad and garlic bread. Breakfast for dinner is always a treat. Pancakes, waffles, French toast or omelets filled with cheese, veggies and meat or beans will satisfy kids and adults alike.