There’s one universal truth in parenthood—there’s never enough time to make dinner. We’re always running someone to soccer practice, fighting giant piles of laundry, and trying to work a full day in between. The solution: 5-ingredient recipes that you can whip up in a flash. These easy meals are very kid-friendly, and mostly rely on items you’re likely to already have in your pantry so you won’t have to make a separate trip to the store (who has time for that?). We’ve left out some of the more obvious choices because we know you’re already a pro at grilled cheese, taco Tuesdays, quick eggs, and the like. Consider your meal plan done!

Creamy Tomato Tortellini with Pesto

The base for this filling dish is cheese-filled tortellini, which is pretty much the most kid-friendly pasta around. Add some mini meatballs or sliced pre-cooked sausage if you want to up the protein in this dish.

5-Ingredient Lemon Chicken with Asparagus

Pinch of Yum 5-ingredient lemon chicken and asparagus
Pinch of Yum

Whether you go with chicken thighs or chicken breasts, this recipe from Pinch of Yum is super flavorful and easy to make. The citrus from the lemon is mellowed out with honey to satisfy those picky palates.

Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps

We love how flavorful these lettuce wraps are. Butter lettuce works best and you can serve it over rice for those picky ones in your family.

Easy Crockpot Ranch Chicken

If your kid isn’t a Ranch fan yet, now is the time to indoctrinate them. This 4-ingredient recipe from The Cookie Rookie makes kid-friendly chicken in a veg-free sauce, so you’re more likely to avoid the mealtime tantrums.

5-Ingredient Coconut Curry

5 ingredient coconut curry
Pinch of Yum

There’s something super comforting about this coconut curry from Pinch of Yum. It uses chickpeas instead of meat so that means it will come together super fast.

Paleo Gnocchi Bolognese

Your family won’t even know that you’re using Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi as the base of this delicious dish.

5-Ingredient Zucchini Fritters

This recipe is a great way to use up your summer bounty of zucchini. We suggest cooking them on your electric griddle if you have one.

Pa Amb Tomàquet (aka Catalan Tomato Bread)

Any vehicle for including more ripe tomatoes in our lives is a must-try. Also, this bread looks like a fun way to get the kids in on the cooking action.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Not only does this recipe only have 5 ingredients, but it’s a one-pot wonder as well. Chicken thighs, Brussels sprouts, and garlic are the main players in this flavorful dish.

5-Ingredient Chili

5 ingredient chili Gimme Some Oven
Gimme Some Oven

We love a chili recipe that comes together in a flash. You can even sub in meatless crumbles if you’d like to make this recipe from Gimme Some Oven vegetarian.

5-Ingredient Trader Joe’s Branzino

This recipe uses three of our favorite TJs items: branzino, lemony arugula salad kit, and frozen country potatoes.

One-Pot Pasta

Kristine's Kitchen Blog one pot pasta
Kristine’s Kitchen Blog

One-pot meals are a weekday dinner staple, and this one from Kristine’s Kitchen Blog serves up sausage with pasta. Bonus: You don’t even need to drain the pasta as it cooks right in the sauce.

Lemon Butter Scallops

5 ingredient lemon butter scallops Damn Delicious
Damn Delicious

Head over to Damn Delicious to snag this recipe that cooks up quickly and is great paired with asparagus or broccoli.

Quick Duck Stir Fry

A stir fry is a great way to use up any veg that might be sitting neglected in the bottom of your fridge. This one uses duck, but you could easily sub in chicken if you prefer.

Instant Pot Short Rib Ragu

Pinch of Yum 5 ingredient short rib ragu
Pinch of Yum

Our advice for this full-of-flavor recipe from Pinch of Yum is to double it. It’s that good.

Spaghetti Carbonara

Any meal that starts with cooking up some bacon is destined for greatness, and this spaghetti carbonara from Damn Delicious is no exception.

Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches

You’ll get lots of flavor development in a short amount of time with this recipe from Amy + Jacky. We like to serve it on toasted ciabatta rolls topped with Swiss cheese.

Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala

@lainiecooks

4 ingredient Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala 🔥 #traderjoes #traderjoesmeals #easydinner #chickentikkamasala

♬ vlog, chill out, calm daily life(1370843) – SUNNY HOOD STUDIO

Our biggest dinnertime hack is using Trader Joe’s items to create a meal that is full of flavor and short on cooking time. This chicken tikka masala is the perfect option when you need dinner on the table ASAP.

Viral Feta Pasta Bake

@kelseyoppenheim

Someone stop me from eating this daily 😩👏🏻😍 #traderjoesfoodreviews #traderjoes #fetapasta #traderjoescookbook

♬ Jazz – Aylior

This recipe has been all over TikTok, and we totally understand the hype. You just throw some cherry tomatoes and feta in the oven to bake and boil up some pasta to mix in at the end. What could be easier?

Cacio e Pepe

We love that this pasta recipe is full of flavor but contains no visible vegetables that may turn your crew off dinner. Gimme Some Oven explains the easy steps to making this Italian favorite.

No-Fuss Prime Rib

Save this recipe for the holidays when time is short. You’ll impress your guests with homemade prime rib, we know it.

Trader Joe’s Lobster Bisque Pasta

Yes, this recipe uses Trader Joe’s lobster bisque to make the creamy sauce, and we are here for it.

5-Ingredient Chicken Lo Mein

@kennedychugg

Replying to @user9761876775593 CHICKEN LO MEIN 🍜😋 …or is this chow mein? I get so confused 😩 INGREDIENTS: ramen, chicken, veggies, soy sauce, oyster sauce 🍴 Add seasoning to your chicken then fry on high heat. Remove and add veggies to pan. Boil noodles for 3 mins or package directions. Mix osyer sauce, a splash of soy sauce, ramen seasoning, and water. Combine everything and enjoy! If you want to 🤌🏼 jazz it up 🤌🏼 add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to your veggies when cooking! #budgetmeals #51030meals #ramennoodles #lomeim #chowmein #dinnerideas #easydinnerideas #cheapeasymeals

♬ Keep Dat Clean Radio Edit By iCandy – Soap Radio. 🧼

This is an easy (and cheap) way to make those ramen packets into a dinner the whole family will love.

I was at the zoo with a baby strapped to my chest, another in a stroller, and one getting uncomfortably close to Ozzie, the zoo’s dominant silverback gorilla when she caught my eye. The zookeeper stood off to the side, patiently chopping fruit, meat, and veggies into bite-sized pieces. Just like I do. Every. Single. Meal. Standing at the zoo, I realized that feeding toddlers (yep, even the picky eaters) really boils down to this: make it easy for them to feed themselves, make it pretty, and keep the risky food to a minimum, or you’ll end up tossing out the whole shebang. Below are my toddler dinner ideas cliff notes from my zoo, er, kitchen.

Toddler Dinner Ideas: Safe Bets

  • Mediterranean Snacking Board: hummus, pita slices, cucumbers, red pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, feta, and sliced almonds.
  • Pasta tossed with rotisserie chicken, parmesan, and peas (reserve a little of the pasta water and mix it in to make the cheese gooey)
  • Baked, sliced sweet potatoes brushed with olive oil, topped with sliced avocado and hard-boiled egg (scrambled eggs work too).
  • Tacos with finely shredded chicken, cheese, and black beans, and a side of corn on the cob.
  • Whole grain English muffins with marinara and mozzarella (toasted in the oven), with orange slices.
  • Pancakes (add cinnamon to the mix) smeared with peanut butter and topped with thin slices of apple.
  • Boiled eggs, halved and salted, with broccoli, carrots, and snap peas (with ranch for dipping).
  • Broccoli, finely chopped, with shredded carrots, sauteed with ground turkey, soy sauce, and an optional spoonful of brown sugar.
  • Cereal and smoothies (I know, but it’s okay every once in a while, and the smoothies are packed with nutrients).
  • Scrambled egg and cheese burritos with cucumbers and tiny tomatoes on the side.
  • Pesto alphabet pasta with peas.
  • Mac & Cheese with sneaky veggies (tiny-sized pieces of broccoli, peas, or kale).
  • Toddler Charcuterie: Turkey Pepperoni, boiled, halved eggs, cubes of cheddar cheese, veggies, and a dipping sauce.
  • Cheese quesadillas (add beans or ground beef or rotisserie chicken for extra protein) with tomatoes and sour cream.
  • Avocado toasts on whole grain with kosher salt and diced shrimp.
  • “Choose your own adventure” burrito bowls with seasoned ground turkey, diced tomatoes, avocados, sour cream, and shredded lettuce options.
  • Alphabet pasta with jar tomato sauce, food processed with a handful of spinach or cooked carrots.
  • Baked chicken tenders and cooked carrot coins (dredge tenders in flour, dip in egg, and roll in Panko, then bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes or until done).
  • Baked, diced sweet potatoes with cinnamon and rotisserie chicken with sour cream and honey dipping sauce.
iStock

If You’re Feeling Lucky

  • Garbanzo beans, diced avocado, and feta cheese tossed with a little lemon juice and salt.
  • Couscous with peas, mint, and halved mini tomatoes.
  • Quinoa muffins (use 1 cup of cooked quinoa for every 1 egg, plus mix-ins like ham and cheese cubes or spinach and diced tomato, baked in muffin cups for 20 minutes at 350 degrees).
  • Deconstructed meatloaf (add salt and pepper to ground meat, bake until done, and serve with a side of ketchup, mashed potatoes, and green beans).
  • Curried chicken salad (baked chicken, cream cheese, and a spoonful of mayo, creamed) on cucumber slices and whole-grain toast.
  • Garbanzo beans with garlic, lemon, and olive oil.

Related: 10 Snacking Tips to Keep Your Kids Happy & Healthy

Don’t Forget to Sneak Nutrition into Dessert

  • Banana ice cream (puree sliced frozen bananas; add things like peanut butter, cinnamon, or honey for a twist)
  • Fruit pizza: Roll out and bake refrigerated croissants, spread on cream cheese, top with sliced fruit; cinnamon sprinkle optional)
  • Berries and sugar-free whipped cream.
  • Chocolate-dipped (or chocolate chip-studded, if you don’t want to wash an extra dish) bananas.
  • Frozen grapes, halved.
  • Canned pumpkin puree with cinnamon and whipped cream.

Sometimes you just need a few toddler dinner ideas to get you started. I hope my go-to’s (after all my trial-and-error) will help you find something they’ll eat without coaxing.

It’s mid-week, you’ve got three practices to be at right now, homework isn’t done, the laundry is piled on the couch, and your kids are starving. What’s a parent to do? First, forget the laundry. Second, nip all the “I’m hungry” pleas in the bud with an easy air fryer dinner recipe that will taste great and take less time than ordering takeout. Whether they like steak, pizza, chicken, or tacos, we’ve got simple solutions that’ll get food on the table in a flash and leave you time to do other things—like watching your new favorite show on Netflix. Priorities, amirite?

Air Fryer Cheeseburgers

A picture of an air fryer dinner recipe for cheeseburgers
Erin Clarke at Well Plated

A hamburger is always a favorite with families, but grilling on a weeknight is practically impossible with a busy schedule, which makes this air fryer dinner recipe for hamburgers (or cheeseburgers) from Well Plated perfect. You’ll get the same results in way less time. Just put out your buns and toppings, and dinner is done. 

Air Fryer Whole Roasted Chicken

If there’s anything cozier than a roasted chicken for dinner, we haven’t found it. Cut down on your cooking time using your air fryer like this recipe from Spend with Pennies does, and don’t forget—your leftovers can be used in all sorts of different ways.

Classic Meatloaf

Mom’s meatloaf gets a modern upgrade when you make it in an air fryer. Urban Bliss Life has a recipe that’s short on time but not on flavor. This version is made with healthier ground turkey, and the glaze topping is a ‘chef’s kiss.’

Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Strips

This kid-favorite gets a healthy makeover that you can whip up in minutes. There is a breading you need to make, but the good news is that you can prep a big batch and cook as many as you need during the week. Get this air fryer dinner recipe from Feel Good Foodie.

Air Fryer Dinner Recipe for Beef Empanadas

A tasty beef mixture stuff inside a yummy pizza dough-like shell? Yes, please. The filling is easy to prep, and you can find frozen empanada discs at the grocery store, so this is a no-brainer on a busy weeknight. And don’t stick to ground beef! You can use turkey or shredded chicken or make pizza pockets with cheese and pepperoni. Get the recipe from Skinny Taste.

Loaded Baked Potato

Is there anything more delicious than a loaded baked potato? We sure don’t think so. We also don’t love the time it takes to bake one in the oven, and with this version, you’ll get crispy, salty potatoes ready for savory toppings like cheese, bacon, sour cream, scallions, or even broccoli. Get this air fryer dinner recipe from Natasha’s Kitchen.

Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza

Mini pizza, anyone? Kids will love this creative air fryer dinner idea because they can use whatever toppings they want, and you’ll love that the kids will be fed in under 15 minutes. Get ideas for toppings and what kind of tortillas work best from Oh Snap Marcos.

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are one of the most versatile ingredients you can use because the flavor possibilities are endless. Using an air fryer doesn’t change that, but it does change your time in the kitchen. Check out this air fryer dinner recipe from Low Carb with Jennifer for chicken thighs—you might never use your oven again.

Air Fryer Grilled Cheese

A gooey, warm cheese sandwich is the ultimate cold-weather meal for kids (and adults). And now, you can make one in your air fryer and save your skillet a wash. Add a bowl of soup, and you’ve got a delicious dinner. Kristine’s Kitchen has the ultimate explanation for how to get that bread to toast just right.

Air Fryer Fish & Chips

White fish fillets are a perfect protein for picky eaters. It has a plain flavor; you can make it in all sorts of ways, and now, with this air fryer recipe for fish and chips, you can create a proper English staple. Feel Good Foodie has tips to ensure your version comes out perfectly crispy.

Air Fryer Chicken Pot Pie

Everyone knows Marie Calendar’s chicken pot pies are a perfect frozen meal when you just don’t want to cook. But the actual cooking time makes them too long when you’re in a rush. Thankfully, Everyday Family Cooking has an air fryer solution that takes less time and tastes like they spent an hour in the oven.

Air Fryer Steak

Imagine a crispy-seared steak with a juicy pink middle. You can have it without the hassle of a skillet or grill using this air fryer dinner recipe from The Recipe Critic. You can use a New York Strip, Rib Eye, or even Tri Tip, and don’t forget to make the decadent garlic butter to top it off.

Air Fryer Dinner Recipe for Meatballs

a picture of an air fryer dinner recipe for meatballs
Spend with Pennies

Who doesn’t love a meatball? This easy air fryer recipe from Spend with Pennies is homemade, but the cooking time in an air fryer takes the same amount of time as boiling pasta. The best part? You get that elusive crisp outside. Make a large batch and serve with marinara sauce or as a quick snack.

Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are one thing. Honey garlic chicken wings are entirely another. With a sauce that only has five ingredients, and an entire batch of wings done in under 25 minutes, serving these with a side of rice and veggies sounds like a perfect mid-week meal to us. Get the recipe from Real Food with Sarah.

Best Air Fryer Dinner Recipe for Salmon

Another popular seafood for families is salmon. This recipe from Feel Good Foodie only uses two spices, salt, pepper, and olive oil, and is air-fried to perfection in under 10 minutes.

Air Fryer Beef Tacos

Taco Tuesday, or any day really, just got a glow-up with this easy air fryer recipe for crispy tacos that will keep grease to a minimum and flavor at a maximum. You will have to brown your beef with this one, but it still cuts back on meal prep, which makes for a perfect weeknight dinner solution. Get the recipe from Dinners, Dishes, and Desserts.

It doesn’t get much easier than this 5-ingredient taco salad from the food blog, Sweet Phi. If you dare go above the five ingredients feel free to sub in or add your toppings suited to your kiddos’ taste buds. Either way, we promise this turkey taco salad dinner will be one of the easiest and tastiest you’ve ever made.

Ingredients for Turkey Taco Salad

1 lb ground turkey, extra lean
1 cup salsa, divided
6-8 cups romaine (or lettuce of choice)
1 cup tortilla chips
1 cup shredded cheese (I use Mexican blend cheese or pepper jack)

Notes from the Chef:

• If making this salad to eat later, cook the ground turkey and salsa, and store it in an air-tight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
• This salad is good with both warm or cold ground turkey
• Alternatively you could use slow cooker salsa chicken as a topping (just put salsa and chicken in a crock pot on low for 6 hours and then shred when done).

Method for making Turkey Taco Salad:

1. Pour ½ cup salsa into a large frying pan, add the ground turkey, and cook it, breaking it up as you cook it. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through.

2. In a large bowl (or 4 small bowls) divide out the lettuce.

3. When the turkey is done cooking spoon out on top of the salad, pour the remaining salsa on top of the ground turkey, then add the cheese and tortilla chips (I like to crush some of the tortilla chips as I add them to the top the salad).

4. Mix the salad and enjoy!

For sweet and savory recipes and more 5-ingredient dinner winners visit the food blog, Sweet Phi for a bevy of awesome ideas. Stay connected on Facebook and Instagram.   

Ever get that feeling that although you’re super busy, nothing ever seems to get done? Sure, you’ve changed baby’s diaper at least 10 times today (and probably done just as many loads of laundry because of it), sat down for so many feedings you’ve lost count (hey, there’s an app for that), and if you’re lucky you managed to squeeze a shower in there somewhere, but probably not. And now you’re left wondering how it’s already time to make dinner. Whether you’re too busy, too tired, or both, we’re working to take meal planning off your plate. These meals for moms don’t take much prep and will fuel your busy days—from breakfast through dinner.

Breakfast Ideas

Overnight Oats

The trick to this recipe from @cleanplatemama is that you make it ahead of time. Stick it in the fridge before bed and wake up to a filling breakfast that appears like magic.

Perfect Scrambled Eggs

Whip up a simple scrambled egg in under five minutes—@cookwithnabeela will show you how. Once you’ve perfected it, throw in veggies, cheeses, and herbs to flavor them the way you like. Our favorite is with French thyme.

Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookie

Cookies for breakfast? Registered Dietician @preventionrd gives the green light to these that include apples, carrots, and oatmeal. Make a batch to get you through the week (and beyond).

Smashed Avocado & Poached Eggs

Avocado toast is always an easy one for breakfast or lunch, and this version created by @foodandhomesa fits the bill. The frozen peas add a little pop that’s unexpected, and although this recipe includes homemade spinach soda bread, we’re here to tell you it’ll taste just as good on whatever bread you’ve got.

Acai Bowl

The great thing about acai bowls is that you can top them with just about anything you’d like. Bananas, granola, and honey are pretty standard, but feel free to scoop in a nut-butter for extra protein or heap on the fresh fruit when it’s in season. Find out how to make this one @chelseasmessyapron.

Lunch Ideas

Celery Soup

This simple soup from @atasteofmadness1 can be made in under 30 minutes with just six ingredients (we’re betting most are already in your fridge). Our tip? If you’re not into transferring hot liquid into your blender, use an immersion blender instead.

Mango Spinach Smoothie

If you’ve got a blender, you can whip up one of our favorite easy meals for moms—a mango spinach smoothie from @cleanplatemama. It’s loaded with 20 grams of protein and healthy fats (from the avocado) all new moms need to get through the day.

Obsessively Good Avocado Cucumber Salad

A few fresh ingredients and the time to chop them all up is what it takes to make @smittenkitchen‘s avocado cucumber salad (and yes, it’s obsessively good). We love that you can use the leftover avocado to make it for lunch the next day, too.

Spaghetti Salad

Make this tasty salad created by @theveiwfromgreatisland for yourself for lunch and you’ll have plenty leftover for dinner. It combines crave-worthy carbs with tons of fresh veggies—a great excuse to hit the farmer’s market in the summer.

Dill Pickle Grilled Cheese

If you didn’t get too many of these during your pregnancy cravings, you’ll love them on this inventive grilled cheese sandwich @pitchforkfoodie dreamed up. Really, you could top this grilled cheese with just about anything and it would be good.

Dinner Ideas

Beef Lettuce Wraps

What should every mom’s go-to dinner include? Something quick and something healthy. That’s what we love about these beef lettuce wraps from @momsdish. Putting them together is as simple as browning your protein (ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even tofu are simple substitutes to make) and assembling the rest of the ingredients atop a fresh bib lettuce leaf. Roll and enjoy.

Vegetable Pancakes

What’s not to love about this simple way to use up leftover veggies from @tiffy.cooks? Take a deep dive in the fridge (yep, all the way to the back) hunting for half-finished carrots, cabbage, peppers, cucumbers, potatoes—whatever is taking up space. Shred, squeeze, and pan fry them before topping with a tasty sauce.

Greek-Inspired Hump Day Salad

It doesn’t have to be Wednesday to make this Hump Day dish we found @easy_salad_recipes, but it doesn’t hurt. Open a bag of lettuce, toss on the toppings, and you’ve got yourself a healthy meal in minutes. Hint: pickle red onion on your countertop by placing sliced red onions in vinegar, then adding a bit of salt and sugar. They should be ready in about 30 minutes.

Lemon Rosemary Chicken

Pick up a pack of boneless, skinless chicken breasts from the store (or pull them from the freezer in the morning) to make this meal for moms from @themediterraneandish. Season them, drizzle some olive oil on top, then throw it in the oven. If you’re feeling really fancy, add a bag salad to this meal.

Chipotle Chicken Tostadas

Ground chicken is the base for this easy-to-assemble recipe from @preventionrd, but you can easily sub ground turkey if it’s easier to find. The avocado and pineapple salsa add a little something extra—a tropical flair that’ll make you feel like you’re on vacation.

Crock Pot White Chicken Chili

Who doesn’t love a meal you can start around lunch time and enjoy five hours later for dinner? This simple white chicken chili by @damn_delicious takes about 10 minutes to put together. The rest is up to your crock pot. Note: if you’re nursing or just want to avoid spicy foods, cut down on the green chilies.

Squash & Chickpea Moroccan Stew

Dicing the potatoes is probably the heaviest lift in this hearty recipe from @smittenkitchen, but the rest of the ingredients don’t involve too much prep. Serve it over couscous or not—it’s up to you. Either way, you’ll have leftovers to enjoy the next day.

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service recently announced a Butterball turkey recall. More than 78,000 pounds of raw ground turkey products were recalled for possible Salmonella Schwarzengrund contamination.

Following a two-state, five-patient outbreak of Salmonella Schwarzengrund illnesses, the FSIS, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and Wisconsin Department of Agriculture determined that the now-recalled turkey was potentially at fault. Of the recall, Butterball spokesperson Christa Leupen said, “I do want to reiterate that because these products were packaged nine months ago, it is highly unlikely any of the product will be found in retail stores, but it is possible that consumers may have product in their freezers.”

Read on to learn more about the recall and what you can do about it.

Recalled Butterball Turkey Description

The recent recall is for Butterball raw ground turkey produced on Jul. 7, 2018. This includes Butterball, Kroger and Food Lion brands. For a full list of affected products, visit the FSIS website here.

Why the Turkey Was Recalled

The FSIS issued the recall out of a Salmonella Schwarzengrund contamination concern. This bacteria can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain and fever for anywhere from four to seven days. Most Salmonella illnesses start within 12 to 72 hours after eating the item. Older adults and infants are particularly at risk for severe illness or complications from this infection.

How to Tell If Your Turkey Was Recalled

For a full list of recalled turkey products, UPC codes, lot codes and sell by dates, visit the FSIS’s website. All affected products bear the establishment number “EST. P-7345” inside the USDA mark of inspection.

What Parents Can Do

Do not eat the turkey. Throw it out or bring it back to the place of purchase. Along with checking your fridge, make sure the product isn’t in your freezer. For additional questions, contact Butterball at 800-288-8372.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Niekverlaan via Pixabay 

 

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Turkey-Meatballs

Meat sauce, basil marinara and pesto. There’s only so many ways to dress up (or down) your kids’ favorite pasta dish. Introduce them to what will inevitably become their new favorite addition: baked turkey meatballs. They’ll love the taste (you will too), and you’ll love that the dish is baked and not fried and created in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients:
1 pound ground turkey
1 egg
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 clove garlic, finely diced
1/4 cup shallot or onion, finely diced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1 teaspoon pepper, or to taste

Method:
1. Preheat oven to 400° F. Cover with parchment paper or lightly grease with oil.

2. In a bowl, mix all ingredients together thoroughly with your hands. Roll into about 20 meatballs and place on pan. Bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes or until cooked through and not pink in the middle.

For more kid-friendly recipes click HERE

Recipe and photo courtesy of Barb at Wishful Chef

If you’re anything like us, you’re always on the hunt for quick dinner ideas to make busy weeknights a little bit easier. We’ve rounded up our favorite healthy 30-minute meals that are guaranteed to please everyone at your table, from a unique take on pizza to a lightning-fast stir-fry. Just scroll down for all the details.

Mini Egg Pizzas

Instead of ordering a pizza, go for this healthier version that comes together in just 15 minutes. Use naan bread or a flatbread for the crust, then top it with your favorite veggies. An egg cracked on top gives it a nice protein boost. To get the recipe, click here.

Garlicky Peanut Soba Noodles with Roasted Broccoli

My Kitchen Love

With a few pantry ingredients and a bunch of broccoli, you’ll have this tasty meal on the table in no time. We love the tangy, sweet peanut sauce, and even veggie haters will be seduced by the crispy roasted broccoli. Click here to see the recipe from My Kitchen Love.

Sneaky One-Pot Mexican Pasta

Siriously Delicious

This recipe from Siri Daly is a win for picky eaters—they won’t even realize they’re eating veggies, thanks to a sneaky squash puree. The dish is rounded out with ground turkey, taco seasoning and plenty of cheese. Get all the details by clicking here.

Beef Stir-Fry

The Leaner Approach

It doesn’t get much easier (or more delicious) than this stir-fry from The Leaner Approach. Just be sure to prep and chop all your ingredients before you start cooking because things move fast once you start sautéing. Click here to grab the recipe.

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish

alanagkelly via flickr

White fish fillets cook up in no time at all, which is why we love this parmesan crusted fish from !Hola! Jalapeño for an easy weeknight dish. Pair it with steamed green beans or pasta to round out the meal. To get the recipe, click here.

Baked Ravioli

Foodista via flickr

Take your pasta dinner to the next level with this recipe from Laughter and Grace. Refrigerated ravioli is paired with a meaty spaghetti sauce, then it’s all covered with cheese and baked. To grab the recipe, click here.

Thai Basil Pork

Lara Ferroni

It’ll be love at first bite with this delish Thai-inspired dish by Patricia Tanumihardja. If you’re not a fan of pork, you can sub in whatever your family prefers, from ground turkey to scallops to salmon. You can also throw in frozen veggies to make it a complete meal—delish! Click here to see the recipe.

Southwestern Black Bean Salad

Cookie Monster Cooking

Brighten up your dinner table with this filling salad from Cookie Monster Cooking. It’s filled with fresh corn, hearty black beans, savory queso fresco and a tangy dressing. Drooling yet? Get the recipe by clicking here.

Salmon Cakes with Lemon Green Beans

Catherine Bulinski via flickr

What’s not to love about these delicious salmon cakes from Momma Cuisine? They’re filled with crunchy breadcrumbs, hearty salmon and red pepper for crunch, and they cook up in less than 10 minutes. Pair them with lemony green beans for a well-rounded meal. Click here to snag the recipe.

Red Pepper & Broccoli Frittata

Jen Silverstein/Red Tricycle

Keep it simple but delicious with a hearty frittata filled with veggies and cheese. The good news: if you end up with leftovers, it tastes just as great (if not better) the next day. To get the recipe, click here.

Quesadilla Pie

Alice Seba via flickr

This quesadilla pie from Dash is comfort food at its finest: shredded chicken is layered with tortillas, chunky salsa, sour cream and cheddar cheese. To get the details on how it’s done, click here.

Chicken Pesto Pasta

pesto chicken pasta is a kid friendly pasta recipe
Leelalicious

Go green with this simple recipe from Regina at Leelalicious. With chicken, pasta and pesto, you’ve got a filling meal that you can whip up in 20 minutes, and dinner is done! Grab the recipe right here.

Quick and Easy Skillet Lasagna

 Our Family Eats

Lasagna in 30 minutes? Yes, it’s totally possible! This skillet version saves you time but doesn’t hold back on flavor. Our Family Eats has the recipe that’s soon to be one of your favorites. Get the full recipe here.

Pasta with Peas and Bacon

cyclone bill via flickr

Go back to basics with a tried-and-true, kid-approved recipe. For those nights when the tots are fussing and the clock is ticking, you can’t go wrong with this 30-minute meal. To see the full recipe, click here.

Pork Tenderloin with Lemon Garlic Sauce

Timothy Vollmer via Flickr

If you need a hearty entrée that will satisfy your crew in a hurry, look no further than this juicy pork tenderloin with a bright lemony sauce. Just add a veggie and rice, and you’re all set! You can find the recipe right here.

Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

Chef Savvy

The next time you’re craving Thai food, skip the takeout and try this easy Thai basil chicken stir-fry recipe from Chef Savvy. Add steamed rice and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy dinner in 30 minutes. Click here to get the recipe.

Go-To Stir Fry

honey garlic chicken broccoli stir fry
Kari of Get Inspired Everyday

Thank goodness for stir fry! This dish not only features a good amount of broccoli, but it also has sweet and savory flavors that are better than any takeout options. Did we mention it only takes 30 minutes to make? Get the recipe from Get Inspired Everyday.

Pan-Roasted Chicken and Shallots

FoodNetwork.com

This chicken recipe is super simple, but fragrant shallots and rosemary make your kitchen smell like you’ve been cooking away all day! This amazing dinner from The Food Network just made your weeknights a little bit easier. To make it yourself, click here.

Filet of Sole à la Meunière

Robert Rosenthal

Fish dinner on a busy weeknight? It can be done! Pass on the fish sticks and serve your family these sole filets with a delish brown butter sauce. Robert Rosenthal, author of Short Order Dad: One Guy’s Guide to Making Food Fun and Hassle-Free has you covered. To get his recipe, click here.

Vegetarian Lettuce Wraps

Well Plated

Tofu and mushrooms replace the meat in this quick vegetarian version of lettuce wraps. With a sweet and tangy sauce and cool, crisp lettuce leaves, these wraps come together in a snap for a fast dinner. Get the recipe from Well Plated right here.

Tuscan-Style Sausage Soup

Prevention RD

Great news! This recipe from Prevention RD uses ingredients you probably have on hand. Plus, there’s a healthy twist: low-sodium chicken broth, whole wheat pasta, and lots of adaptability if you want to add your fave veggies. Get the recipe here.

—Anna Doogan & Susie Foresman

 

 

Huddle up for healthy Game Day snacks! We promise the crowd will go wild over this tasty lineup of football food— and you can gobble guilt-free since these little bites score major healthy points. From broccoli tater tots to twice baked potatoes with a cauliflower twist, here’s how to amp up your Super Bowl Sunday or tailgate feast.

Skinny Cheddar-Stuffed Meatballs

How about some super simple meatballs for your Game Day snackathon? This version from Maebells uses just a few basic ingredients: ground turkey, ranch seasoning, bread crumbs, an egg and some cheddar cheese cubes. Get the recipe here.

photo: Maebells

What’s on your Game Day menu? Share with us in the comment section below!

—Abigail Matsumoto

lettuce-wraps-ccflickr-crystalflickr

As long as you are comfortable with the term “browning meat” and know how to chop veggies this recipe from the food blog, Our Family Eats is a breeze to make. You may want to cut the Poblano pepper if you are serving this dish to little ones, though it is not overly spicy.

Ingredients:
1 head iceberg lettuce
1 Tablespoon canola oil
1 small onion, diced
1 small Poblano pepper, diced
1/4 cup grated carrot
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 pound ground turkey
salt and pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/4 cup soy sauce (use San-J to make this dish gluten free)
2-3 green onions, sliced
Cilantro, if desired

Method:
1. Cut the stem from the head of lettuce and gently separate leaves. Set leaves aside.

2. Heat oil in a large skillet. Add onion, pepper, and carrots to skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes, until they begin to soften. Add ground turkey to skillet and cook until no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, cumin and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Pour in soy sauce and continue cooking about 3-4 more minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed.

4. Place one or two lettuce leaves on a plate and spoon about 1/2 cup of the turkey mixture into them. (If the leaves seem too brittle you can double them up.) Sprinkle with green onions and cilantro. Serve immediately.

Serves 4

Note from the Chef: If you are sensitive to spicy foods, or are making these for young children, you may want to reduce or eliminate the Poblano pepper and the crushed red pepper from the recipe.

Did you sub anything in or out of this recipe? Tell us below!

Susan Schuman is a working mom with two small kids and a hungry husband. She writes Our Family Eats to share ideas for fun, wholesome meals that anyone can fit into their hectic schedule. You can connect with Susan on Twitter @ourfamilyeats.

photo: Crystalflickr via flickr