Looking for quick and easy dinners that your kids will actually eat? On those busy nights when time is short, it’s important to have go-to recipes that are both simple and kid-approved.
I’ve put together 21 easy dinner ideas that are sure to make everyone at the table happy. These meals are perfect for busy evenings and are easy to whip up, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying with your family. Let’s dive in and find some new favorites for your dinner routine!
1. Chicken Quesadillas
Chicken quesadillas are quick and easy to make. Simply fill tortillas with cooked chicken, cheese, and any veggies your kids like. Cook them in a skillet until crispy and golden. Serve with salsa or sour cream for a tasty meal.
2. Spaghetti with Meatballs
Spaghetti with meatballs is a classic favorite. Cook the spaghetti and meatballs separately, then mix with marinara sauce. It’s simple to make and always a hit with kids. Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
3. Mini Pizzas
Mini pizzas are fun and customizable. Use English muffins or pita bread as the base and let kids add their favorite toppings. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. They’re quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
4. Sloppy Joe
Sloppy Joes are messy but delicious. Brown ground beef and mix it with a tangy tomato sauce. Serve on hamburger buns for a fun and filling dinner. Add some pickles or cheese if you like.
5. Tacos
Tacos are easy to assemble and fun to eat. Fill taco shells with seasoned ground beef or chicken, then top with cheese, lettuce, and salsa. Let everyone build their own tacos with their favorite toppings. They’re quick and always popular with kids.
6. Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is creamy and comforting. Cook macaroni and mix with a cheese sauce made from butter, milk, and cheddar. Bake for a crispy top or serve it straight from the pot. It’s a great way to get kids to eat their pasta.
7. Chicken Nuggets
Chicken nuggets are a kid-friendly staple. Coat chicken pieces in breadcrumbs and bake or fry until crispy. Serve with dipping sauces like ketchup or honey mustard. They’re easy to make and always a hit with kids.
8. Breakfast Burritos
Breakfast burritos are perfect for dinner. Fill tortillas with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage. Roll them up and serve with salsa or avocado. They’re quick to make and packed with flavor.
9. Beef Stir-Fry
Beef stir-fry is a quick and healthy meal. Cook thin slices of beef with veggies like bell peppers and broccoli in a tasty sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete dinner. It’s a great way to get kids to eat their veggies.
10. Pizza Pasta Bake
Pizza pasta bake combines two favorites into one dish. Mix cooked pasta with marinara sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. Bake until bubbly and golden. It’s a fun twist on pizza and pasta that kids will love.
11. BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
BBQ chicken sandwiches are flavorful and easy to make. Cook chicken with BBQ sauce, then shred and serve on buns. Add coleslaw or pickles for extra crunch. It’s a tasty and simple meal that kids enjoy.
12. Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is creamy and satisfying. Cook chicken and mix with fettuccine pasta and a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s an easy dish that’s sure to please. Add some steamed veggies for a complete meal.
13. Fish Sticks
Fish sticks are a quick and kid-friendly dinner. Coat fish pieces in breadcrumbs and bake until crispy. Serve with a side of tartar sauce or ketchup. They’re easy to make and perfect for busy nights.
14. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are colorful and tasty. Fill bell peppers with a mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. Bake until the peppers are tender. They’re a healthy and satisfying meal that kids will like.
15. Ravioli
Ravioli is a simple and comforting meal. Use store-bought ravioli and cook according to package instructions. Mix with your favorite sauce and serve with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. It’s an easy way to enjoy a pasta dinner.
16. Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a hearty and delicious dish. Mix cooked ziti with marinara sauce, cheese, and any additional toppings like meatballs. Bake until bubbly and golden. It’s a great way to feed a family with minimal effort.
17. Turkey Burgers
Turkey burgers are a healthier twist on classic burgers. Season ground turkey and shape into patties. Cook on the grill or stovetop and serve on buns with your favorite toppings. They’re a quick and tasty dinner option.
18. Cheesy Broccoli Rice
Cheesy broccoli rice is a simple side that can be a meal on its own. Cook rice and mix with steamed broccoli and a cheese sauce. It’s creamy and full of flavor. This dish is a great way to sneak in some veggies.
19. Chicken and Veggie Skewers
Chicken and veggie skewers are fun and easy to make. Thread chunks of chicken and veggies onto skewers and grill or bake. Serve with a side of rice or a dipping sauce. It’s a great way to get kids to eat their veggies.
20. Tortilla Wraps
Tortilla wraps are versatile and quick. Fill tortillas with deli meat, cheese, and any veggies your kids like. Roll them up and slice into pinwheels. They’re perfect for a speedy dinner or a lunchbox treat.
21. Veggie Pasta Salad
Veggie pasta salad is a cold and refreshing meal. Cook pasta and mix with chopped veggies, cheese, and a simple dressing. It’s easy to make ahead and can be served cold. This dish is a great way to enjoy a light and tasty dinner.
I hope these 21 easy dinner ideas help make your busy nights a bit easier and a lot more enjoyable. These recipes are quick to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Mix and match these meals to keep things interesting and fun for your family. The aim is to make dinnertime simple and enjoyable for everyone. Enjoy cooking and savoring those family dinners!
