As a parent, I understand the daily challenge of getting little ones to eat a balanced meal. Picky eaters can be a source of frustration, but there are some tactics you can try to get your kids to eat more nutritious foods. The key to dealing with picky eaters is patience and persistence. Keep offering a variety of foods, and don’t be discouraged if your child doesn’t immediately embrace new flavors. As a former picky eater, I know what works because I eventually outgrew my own fussy tendencies. I’ve gathered 10 delicious weeknight meal ideas that have won over my picky kids and become family favorites.
These recipes are child-friendly, quick, and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy evenings when you need to get dinner on the table fast. These 10 weeknight meals should help make dinnertime a bit more enjoyable for you and your kids. Happy cooking!
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Cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole could be your new family staple.
Start with a classic that never disappoints. Mix cooked, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, then bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Opt for a sharp cheddar cheese or a lower-fat option like part-skim mozzarella. It’s a comforting delight even the pickiest of eaters will devour — the cheese really seals the deal.
Set up a build-your-own mini taco bar.
Create a taco bar with mini whole-wheat tortillas and a range of toppings such as seasoned ground turkey, lean beef, shredded cheese, lettuce, salsa, and guacamole. Kids can build tacos to their liking. Having colorful veggie options may make children more likely to try foods they’re not used to.
Make guacamole from scratch to avoid preservatives, added sugar, and a high sodium content. Scoop out the flesh of ripe avocados and mash them in a bowl. Add finely diced onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Squeeze on some fresh lime juice for a zesty kick. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix it all together.
Get creative and interactive with homemade pizza night.
Let your kids create their own pizzas with various toppings such as pepperoni, bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, and cheese. It’s a fun and interactive way to get them excited about dinner while ensuring they eat what they’ve made.
I often make a homemade tomato sauce with canned tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, and basil. Sometimes, I like to sneak in extra veggies and nutrition by adding carrots, onion, peppers, or zucchini before pureeing the mixture. You can’t see — or taste — the hidden nutrients.
Keep things new and exciting with stuffed pasta shells.
Stuffed pasta shells are a fantastic option for picky eaters. You can fill them with a variety of ingredients such as ricotta cheese, ground beef, spinach, tomatoes, or creamy mushrooms. The endless possibilities make it easy to cater to your kid’s preferences. Once stuffed and baked in a marinara sauce, they transform into a flavorful and comforting meal that’s fun to eat and packed with essential nutrients.
My little ones love shells stuffed with cooked chicken, mushroom, and spinach. Add this mixture to cooked pasta shells, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Remove the foil, garnish with cheese and fresh parsley, and put it back in the oven for another five minutes or until the cheese melts.
The combination of cheesy filling and savory sauce will surely win over little ones, making this dish a dinner table hit. As a fun twist on a traditional pasta dish, it can get your children excited about trying something new. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to sneak in some extra veggies or lean protein while keeping everyone at the table happy.
Enjoy a good burger.
Homemade turkey burgers are a great option for picky eaters, offering a healthier alternative to traditional beef patties. Customize these burgers to suit your child’s taste. Adding finely chopped vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, carrots, and celery to the turkey mixture provides another sneaky way to incorporate extra nutrients.
Kids can also get involved in assembling burgers with their favorite toppings, making dinner an exciting and interactive experience. The lean and protein-rich nature of turkey burgers makes them a nutritious choice that satisfies picky eaters and health-conscious parents.
Explore a different cuisine with a chicken and vegetable stir-fry.
A chicken and vegetable stir-fry is a versatile dish that allows you to incorporate your child’s favorite vegetables. The sweet-savory sauce and tender chicken make it a flavorful and satisfying meal.
You can also let kids participate by choosing their preferred veggies to include in the stir-fry, making dinner preparation a fun family activity. It’s a balanced meal that provides protein, vitamins, and fiber, and opens them up to flavors they may not be used to.
Warm their hearts and bellies with loaded baked potato soup.
Loaded baked potato soup is a comforting and flavorful dinner option, especially on chilly nights. Its creamy texture and the combination of cheese, bacon, and green onions make it a delightful treat for children and adults alike. You can even set up a topping bar with ingredients such as extra cheese, sour cream, and crispy onions to let everyone customize their bowl. To make it extra filling, serve it with a slice of fresh, home-baked bread, or crispy croutons.
Give breakfast for dinner a try.
Breakfast for dinner is always a hit with kids. Whip up some delicious — and nutritious — peanut butter and banana pancakes. Top with Greek yogurt, honey, and any additional fruit your young ones love. This balanced meal is an excellent source of carbs, protein, and healthy fats.
Take a nutritious twist on a beloved classic.
Butternut squash mac and cheese is a healthier twist on the much-loved classic. It offers a creamy and cheesy indulgence while sneaking in the goodness of squash. The natural sweetness of butternut pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cheese, making it a comforting dish kids often love.
It’s an effective way to introduce them to new flavors and increase their vegetable intake. Plus, the vibrant orange color is visually appealing, making it an exciting and tasty weeknight meal.
Tweak fast food with baked chicken tenders and sweet potato fries.
Baked chicken tenders and sweet potato fries provide the crispy, crunchy satisfaction children often crave from their favorite fast food joints. The sweet potato fries are rich in vitamins and fiber, and the baked chicken tenders are much lighter and healthier than their fried counterparts. It’s a well-rounded meal combining protein and veggies while appealing to kids’ taste buds.
