As the age-old saying goes: kids cannot live on buttered noodles alone. Well, not if you can help it. That’s why we’ve combed through oodles of kid friendly pasta recipes so you can keep your carb-loving crowd happy and mix up your dinner routine. Get the water boiling, and check out 50+ recipes that put a new twist on classic pasta. If you’re looking for something a little cozier, be sure to bookmark some of our favorite slow cooker recipes or sheet pan dinners.
Slow Cooker 12-Layer Lasagna
Catherine McCord of Weelicious is a wealth of information when it comes to kid friendly pasta recipes. Her slow cooker 12-layer lasagna exemplifies her ability to come up with tasty dishes that will please the picky palate and the busy mom. This pasta recipe is a must-make for any parent pressed on time and with hungry stomachs lying in wait.
The secret to this kid friendly pasta recipe from Dinner at the Zoo? Creamy butternut squash sauce and a smattering of bacon. It’s a hearty dish that your family will go gaga over.
The phrase “one pot meal” is music to our ears, and this delish dish is no exception. With cheese, chicken, and mushrooms, we’re pretty sure this one will be an instant hit in your house. To grab the recipe, click here.
Mix it up on pasta night with a bowl of sesame soy noodles. Not only can this dish be made in a snap, but it also only calls for a few simple (but tasty) ingredients and can be served hot or cold. Plus, you’ll love the leftovers. For the recipe, head on over to Life Made Simple.
Did you know that a jar of marinara sauce can turn into a comforting bowl of vegetarian soup in about 20 minutes? It’s better than any magic trick and the best way to turn a chilly weeknight into a warm and toasty good time. Even better: You probably have all the ingredients right now. Get the recipe from The Seasoned Mom.
The genius of this idea from Damn Delicious is that it takes your favorite pasta dish and turns it into an irresistible creamy soup. All it takes is 20 minutes to make, and you can always use store-bought meatballs.
This one’s a winner! Courtesy of Table for Two, this recipe only takes 25 minutes and one pot to make. Plus, it’s like a cheeseburger in pasta form and guaranteed to be a kid hit.
Say cheese! Not only does this pasta bake from A Taste of Madness sneak some green stuff into your kiddo’s diet, but it also uses ingredients you probably have on hand.
Love lemon and salmon? Kitchen Sanctuary combines those divine flavors into a quick and easy meal! Tangy and refreshing, it even includes some sugar snap peas for an added health kick.
Get your hands on fresh pasta sheets (you can usually find them in the refrigerator section of your grocery store) and whip up these creative pasta rollups from The View from Great Island. Add your favorite deli meat and top everything off with a cheesy gratin!
Shrimp scampi is a favorite with kids and this easy version from Tastes Better from Scratch uses three or four basic ingredients. Our only edit is to skip the parmesan cheese at the end.
Give your pasta a buffalo twist with a little help from Honey and Birch. This dish sports tangy buffalo sauce and can easily be customized to suit your family’s tastes.
You’d better bookmark this recipe from Life Made Simple because we guarantee it’s the orzo of your dreams. Creamy, garlic-y, and made in 30 minutes, it’s gonna be your new go-to pasta.
Pressed for time? This recipe from Savory Nothings only requires a little bit of time and one pot—but the results are oh-so-tasty. It’s the perfect way to spice up Taco Tuesday!
Instead of plain buttered pasta, go for this super simple recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes. Find out how it’s done by clicking here.
Pasta with Peas and Bacon
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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.
This yummy take on the classic jambalaya packs an extra punch of healthiness with the addition of veggie puree. Even picky kiddos will love noshing on the yummy sausage and shrimp. Click here to get the recipe.
Pasta al Pastore
This comforting dish comes together in a flash using just five ingredients. Flavorful Italian sausage and ricotta cheese are the stars of the show. Get the full recipe by clicking here.
Bacon, eggs, and parmesan cheese—what more could you need? Keep things simple with a delicious bowl of pasta carbonara. Find out how it’s done by clicking here.
Our kiddos go crazy for pesto, and this yummy recipe is a weeknight savior—the addition of chicken breast makes it a filling but quick meal. To find out how it’s done, click here.
Have you ever read the list of ingredients on one of those “helper” boxes? We can honestly say that we don’t know what half of those words mean. That’s not the case here. This skillet lasagna, which comes to us from Our Family Eats, is full of wholesome, nutritious ingredients that come together to create a creamy, comforting plate of deliciousness.
Baked Ravioli
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Give your ravioli a flavor boost with a heaping of yummy meat sauce. After making the ravioli and pasta sauce like you normally would, stick everything in the oven in a baking dish. The outcome is a tasty twist on your traditional ravioli dish. Get the recipe here.
Does anything scream comfort food more than Beef Stroganoff? We don’t think so, and This Mom’s Kitchen has an easy version that you can make in both an Instant Pot or as a stovetop one-pot pasta meal.
Mac and Cheese
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You'll never go back to boxed mac and cheese again, thanks to Joy, Food, Sunshine. This kid friendly pasta recipe features sharp cheddar, but you can use a combination of cheeses for a more rich flavor. After one bite of this dish, you'll be hooked.
Baked Ziti
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If your kids love Italian food as much as ours do, then this baked ziti pasta recipe is sure to be a hit. Think of it like a lasagna but with more cheese and more creamy goodness. This is a great dish to make in advance and bake when needed. Get the recipe here.
Bacon, ranch, and pasta? Made in an Instant Pot? All of our favorite flavors come together in this quick and kid-friendly pasta recipe from Meatloaf and Melodrama that you’ll want to bookmark immediately.
One Pot Wonder: Tomato Basil Pasta
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It’s no wonder this one-pot pasta recipe won us over. Who wouldn’t want an awesome pasta dish that only gets one pot dirty? Bonus: It's got kid-friendly ingredients and isn't too fancy. Get the details here.
Pasta Primavera
Sometimes nothing hits the spot more than a no-frills vegetable pasta dish. We like that the veggies can always be switched out for whatever you have on hand. Served hot or cold, this pasta recipe is delicious either way. Get the recipe here.
Taking care of sick kids is never easy. But these tips for fighting colds and treating symptoms should help.
With RSV making its way around plus it officially being flu and cold season, it’s a given you’ll be dealing with runny noses and fevers more than once this winter. Since it’s all (parents’) hands on deck when it comes to surviving long sick days with kids, we’ve created a guide to help you make it back to the land of the healthy.
From babies to big kids, sinus infections to body aches and fatigue, we’ve got ideas for what to do when your kid is sick: the best entertainment, how to maintain hydration, and even insider intel on superfoods that’ll help them say goodbye to the sickies. P.S. It turns out that bowl of chicken noodle soup is doing even more than you think! (Note: In the case of severe illness or symptoms, please seek professional medical help.)
There's more guesswork involved with treating a sick baby because they can't verbalize their symptoms, but we have plenty of comfort cures in our guide: 10 ways to soothe a sick baby to help your little bundle feel better in no time.
When It's a Sinus Issue
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Sinus drainage during a cold or a bout of flu is a culprit of pain and frustration. That's why knowing how to relieve your kids of this nasty symptom is a must! Read our thorough information on how to treat sinus drainage.
Use nature's potent power to help your kids heal and recover faster and make them more comfortable during illness. These home remedies pack a punch and will knock out icky ailments including a cough or a sore throat. You may even find you have many of these impactful ingredients on hand in your kitchen cupboard right now!
Home Entertainment for Sick Days
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Books. Even when they're feeling awful, some kids still want to be entertained when they're not sleeping off an illness. Bookworms may appreciate the downtime to catch up on the best kids' books of the past year. Bonus: this will allow for snuggle time too!
Printables. Your kiddo may be feeling much better but it's still a 'sick' day because most schools say students need to be fever-free for 24 hours before returning to the classroom. Fill that lull between sickness and full steam ahead with these fun winter-themed activity sheets.
Podcasts. If the television is too bright or you want to turn off the tube, settle your kiddo down with a pair of headphones and a handful of podcasts. It will help pass the time, and they may even learn something, too!
Shows that are perfect for binge-watching. Not sure where to start? These classic '90s TV shows will keep them entertained while lying on the family sofa.
Opt for a must-see movie instead. Catch up on movies you've always wanted to watch with your kids but may not have had the time. These must-see family films will keep the whole household entertained. There are over 100 films on the list, so you're sure to find more than a few to enjoy!
Use the slow cooker. Taking care of a sick child leaves little time for cooking for the whole family. We've compiled a list of our favorite slow cooker recipes so family meals can simmer into completion while you tend to your little one.
Whip up comfort food. Perhaps your patient's appetite is still healthy even though they're under the weather. If that's the case, these comfort food recipes will help keep them fueled up and cozy.
If they've got an upset tummy. If your kids are suffering from nausea and/or vomiting, keeping liquids down will be a challenge. Help them stay hydrated by making homemade popsicles—bonus points for making a batch with hydrating and nutrient-rich coconut water.
Superfoods to the rescue! From carrot-orange juice to chocolate chia seed pudding, we've got plenty of recipes that use superfoods, which can help your kids battle any bugs.
Practice self-care. If your kiddo's cold or flu has yet to bring you down, drink this cold-busting wellness tea that's loaded with germ-fighting fruits and spices.
Click to order. Are you out of cough syrup and popsicles? Instead of dragging your sick littles to the store, shop for the essentials and have them delivered to your front door. Here's our list of grocery stores that make home calls.
Editor’s Note: Tinybeans does not make any medical claims about curing serious illnesses in children. In the case of severe illness or symptoms, please seek professional medical help.
It’s no surprise that we’re obsessed with Crock Pot recipes. They save a ton of time on busy weeknights (just like these other incredible make-ahead dinner recipes and one-pan meals) and make cleanup a breeze. Meal prep is easy when there are only a few ingredients: just dump them in, turn it on, and forget about it until you’re home for the evening. We’ve rounded up a list of our all-time favorite slow cooker recipes, from whole roasted chickens to pot roasts and tacos. And if you’re looking to save time in the morning as well, you can try these make-ahead breakfast recipes, too.
This is a fix-it-and-forget-it recipe if we’ve ever seen one. For kids who think wild rice is weird, substitute long-grain white rice. Get the recipe from Eating Bird Food.
Lasagna that’s made in a slow cooker? That’s served in a bowl? This has all the makings of our new favorite weeknight dinner recipe. Get the details from The Cozy Cook.
A baked potato with all the fixings is always a good idea, and this Crock Pot recipe for baked potato soup is so easy and so perfect for chilly days, you’ll be thanking us for finding it. Get the recipe from Slow Cooker Meals.
This hearty and flavorful soup from Foxes Love Lemons features ingredients like apple, carrot, and fresh garlic. It’s a guaranteed fall classic slow cooker recipe and a great way to warm up on a chilly day!
If there's another soup that is as big of a crowd-pleaser as chicken noodle soup, we haven't found it. Weelicious serves up this easy slow cooker version you'll want to add to your recipe rotation immediately.
After trying this Crock Pot recipe from My Whole Food Life you'll never want to make soup on your stovetop again. Simply prep your veggies and then let the slow cooker do the work.
Sometimes a chilly winter day calls for hearty pasta! This recipe from Kristine's Kitchen Blog is the perfect stick-to-your-ribs meal, with a healthier twist. (Think: ground turkey and whole wheat pasta.)
This tagine from Feed Me Phoebe is one of those great Crock Pot recipes to make ahead for the weekend. There's protein and veggie goodness in every bite, and you can adjust the seasoning to accommodate tiny taste buds.
This delish chicken recipe from One Lovely Life is bound to become a weekday Crock Pot staple. The rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken pair perfectly with rice and veggies.
Ready for the best ramen news ever? You can make your fave noodle soup right in your own slow cooker! All you need for broth that's drink-from-the-bowl good is this recipe from A Spicy Perspective. Then just add noodles, chicken, and soft-boiled eggs!
Reason #1 to fall in love with this dish? It only takes 10 minutes to prep! These slow cooker chicken enchiladas from Urban Cookery are one of the more simple recipes to make and taste delicious topped with cheddar cheese, enchilada sauce, sour cream or salsa.
This crock pot recipe from Shared Appetite will quickly become a staple in your house. Since all of the work is done by the slow cooker over four hours, it's one of those recipes fit for entertaining. With toppings like aioli, bean sprouts, and avocado, your guests (and kids!) won't be able to resist these sliders.
A few lemons, a whole chicken, and a little salt and pepper turn into something magical after a few hours in the slow cooker. This dish pairs perfectly with jasmine rice and roasted veggies.
Chicken teriyaki is always a hit with our kids, and this slow cooker recipe makes it easier than ever. With just five ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Get it here.
Slow cooker recipes are our favorite, and this chicken recipe from Hello Spoonful is a keeper—with only six ingredients, you can get this into the crock pot in the morning in less than 10 minutes. Once it’s time for dinner, serve it over rice, with salad, or in sandwiches—the sky’s the limit!
Forget Panda Express—this orange chicken recipe from Kirbie’s Cravings is off-the-charts delicious and way healthier than anything you’d get in a restaurant. It’s the best way to brighten up your plate on a dreary weeknight.
Forget roasting the chicken in the oven. Check out this recipe for throwing the entire chicken in the Crock Pot instead. The result is a delicious fall-off-the-bone dinner.
On a cold day, there’s no better way to warm up than with a hearty beef stew. This Crock Pot version is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, with tender chunks of beef, plenty of veggies, and a flavorful tomato base.
What could be more down-home than a batch of sloppy joes? These amazing (and amazingly simple) sloppy joes from Dragonfly Home Recipes are our new favorite meal!
For a hearty side, try making these yummy scalloped potatoes from Well Plated. They’re made using a mix of Yukon Gold and sweet potatoes, and the cheesy sauce makes them an instant kid favorite.
We would have never thought to make mashed potatoes in the Crock Pot, but this recipe from Life Is But a Dish works like a charm. And since nobody likes cold ‘taters, the cooker keeps them warm until you’re ready to eat.
Chicken pot pie is the ultimate comfort food, but who has time to roll out a pie crust and bake it to perfection? That’s why we can’t resist this stew, which incorporates all our favorite elements of a chicken pot pie without the hassle.
Who says turkey is just for Thanksgiving? This delicious recipe from Skinny Taste helps keep the turkey moist by cooking it in the gravy mixture.
Chicken Parm
A three-ingredient recipe that’s oh-so-yummy? Sign us up! While this recipe may not satisfy chicken parm traditionalists, we love how easy it is. And, the outcome is just as good as the real (non-crock pot) thing.
The slow cooker isn’t just for main dishes—try out this awesome slow -cooker-made party mix from Oh, Sweet Basil. You can customize it by adding your favorite crunchy snacks, and the tangy ranch coating is super addictive.
This genius recipe from Slow Cooker Gourmet is perfect for feeding a crowd, whether it’s game day or a family gathering. Serve it with warm crusty bread and tortilla chips for an appetizer that will disappear in a flash.
While everyone loves barbecue ribs, not everyone loves the prep time involved with this favorite meal. Nix the hassle and opt for the slow cooker. You won’t be disappointed.
This just might be the easiest dinner recipe ever—only three ingredients are needed! Brown sugar and salsa come together to create a tasty sweet-but-spicy (depending on what kind of salsa you choose) glaze for the pork.
Ditch the boxed mac and cheese and opt instead for this recipe from Khit of A Bountiful Love food blog. Not only is this recipe easy but it's budget-friendly.
This Asian-inspired dish from The Skinny Fork incorporates tastes that kids love, from savory soy sauce to sweet honey. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with broccoli and steamed rice.
Get adventurous with your slow cooker with this fun recipe for Mongolian beef. The little ones will love the delicious combination of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors.
Talk about getting your hands dirty—kids will love dunking their sandwiches in a super tasty beef jus made in a slow cooker. Plus, these French dip sandwiches are definitely a unique twist on your usual beef roast.
Pulled pork isn't just for barbecue—this pulled pork taco Crock Pot recipe is super simple and fun for kids to customize with their own toppings. Add some veggies, cheese, and guac, and you've got a complete meal.
Meat eaters and omnivores alike will love this filling soup from Away from the Box. You can finish it with tasty toppings like avocado, sour cream, and pico de gallo.
Slow cooker recipes aren’t just for dinner! The mornings are often as hectic (if not more) as the evenings. Try prepping your breakfast the night before with this breakfast recipe made for the slow cooker.
This cobbler from Spiced is as comforting as homemade pie but way easier to make—sign us up! Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a guaranteed win with kids and adults alike.
Jennifer Tyler Lee, Bay Area mom and author of The 52 New Foods Challenge, shared with us one of her favorite healthy lunch ideas: Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. She tells us, “My kids love a hot lunch, and this recipe is an easy way for me to send a cozy meal that I know they’ll enjoy.” Her pro tip? When packing soup, only fill the thermos part way to the top with liquid to avoid spills.
1 ¼ to 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon wholegrain mustard
½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup onions, chopped
1 cup carrots, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1 cup dry pasta (macaroni or rotini work best)
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl. Toss the chicken in the mixture until well coated. Spread out on the lined baking sheet as flat as possible and roast 23-25 minutes, until cooked through. When done, remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Then chop into 1-inch pieces and set aside. Reserve any cooking juices.
Tip: If you’re in a pinch, use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and skip to Step 3. Heat a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and then the onions and cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the onions are translucent. Add the carrots and celery and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Add the broth, 1 cup water, and the bay leaf. Cover and bring to a boil. Add the pasta, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 8 minutes, or until the pasta is almost cooked.
5. Add the chicken to the pot and simmer for 2 minutes more.
Fill them up with these tasty meals that aren’t chicken nuggets
Protein-packed meals and picky eaters don’t always go hand-in-hand. If your little one gags at anything but buttered noodles and you’re wondering where they’ll get their high-protein foods from, we have recipes and high-protein foods for picky eaters that kids will actually eat (especially if you adjust these ideas to their taste). From yummy breakfast shakes to easy dinner ideas, keep reading to find your new secret weapon.
What kiddo says no to a peanut butter cup shake? None that we've met. This is a high-protein packed shake that's perfect for busy mornings, and especially for tweens who have a hard time eating breakfast. Get the recipe from Chelsea's Messy Apron.
Soft-boiled eggs are ready in five minutes, and when paired with buttered sticks of toast (soldiers) which the kids can dunk in the runny yolk, they're as fun as they are convenient. Head to Eat Live Run for tips and tricks on how to boil the perfect egg.
Having waffles for breakfast? Skip the regular syrup and whip up this delicious peanut butter syrup for a perfect high-protein food for picky eaters. Plus add a double dose of protein with this scrumptious peanut butter waffle recipe written out at Creations by Kara.
Picky eaters will be so excited about the chocolate chip muffin aspect that they won’t even notice the protein powder you add to the mix. These are a great on-the-go breakfast option!
High-Protein Foods for Picky Eaters Perfect for Lunch
Simple, easy-to-make, and pleasing to pint-sized taste buds—pizzadillas. It's the perfect combo pizza, and quesadilla all wrapped up. Blair over at The Seasoned Mom serves this savory dish with dipping sauce.
Skewered food often works for picky eaters, perhaps because there’s something of the lollipop about it. With this chicken satay dish from Eat Yourself Skinny, you get double the dose of protein from the chicken and the peanut sauce.
Choose-your-own-adventure meets the dinner table with this build-your-own-bowl idea from Liz's Healthy Table. All the choices are healthy with a choice of ready-to-eat teriyaki tofu, egg, edamame, bell pepper, and sugar snap peas. When kids get control over what goes on their plates, they might even be a little braver when tasting new foods.
High-Protein Meals for Picky Eaters to Add to Your Dinner Recipe Rotation
Yummy Toddler Food knows the challenges of getting little ones to eat something that'll fill their bellies! This four-ingredient recipe for chicken meatballs will be a crowd-pleaser, and they're super easy to whip up. Get the recipe from Yummy Toddler Food.
A classic carbonara has no cream and no heavy sauce because the eggs do all the work, making it both light and decadent at the same time. This recipe from Scrummy Lane gives lots of tips on how to make the perfect carbonara.
Aloha! Little eaters love sweet foods. So serve up salmon with teriyaki sauce and grilled pineapple. Even more, the meaty salmon texture tastes good in little mouths. Unicorns in the Kitchen gives us this easy 30-minute recipe that your half-pints will eat up (keep the pineapple for yourself!).
If your picky eater is hankering for something savory then this 30-minute instant pot hamburger helper packs in the protein. Stir in cheese when this delicious dish is ready to get your little one to eat up. If you don't have an instant pot, go here for the stove-top version.
Putting veg on the side of a simple rice dish allows kids to know exactly what they're eating and sometimes a suspicious ingredient is all it takes for a point-blank refusal to eat. This stir-fry recipe from our archives is a mix of sweet and savory flavors that's easy to prepare—just mince the onion small or omit it altogether.
Warm up your household with this mild chile con carne made just for kids. The best part besides the 18 grams of protein per serving is the four veggies in this delightful dish. Find the recipe at My Fussy Eater.
Sweet and savory is always a good combo, and this orange chicken recipe from Kitchen Sanctuary fits the description. This is a high protein-packed meal we’re sure will make picky eaters will rejoice.
Little diners will get hooked on these crunchy fish sticks from Super Healthy Kids. You'll be glad to know the breading has a secret ingredient—flax seeds—so these fish sticks are not only high in protein, but the crunchy outside and mild softer inside make them easy to gobble up.
A childhood favorite that's made up fresh? Sign us up! With 34 grams of protein per serving, this spaghetti and meatballs recipe from Shugary Sweets is perfect for picky eaters. She uses turkey meatballs to lighten up the dish. Add in a veggie, like carrots, with dipping sauce as a side dish.
When kids can get creative with their food at the table, they start seeing it as something other than "yucky." This chicken taco filling is the starting point for dinnertime creativity—add in other taco toppings like cheese, fresh tomato, avocado and lettuce, and those picky eaters might just surprise you! Head to Dinner At The Zoo for the recipe.
Don't let the picture put you off—plenty of picky eaters wouldn't go near a soup with the ingredients all mushed in together but Meredith at Feed Them Wisely says this delicious ginger coconut chicken soup can be deconstructed and all the ingredients served separately. While the soup option works for adults, kids get to taste the same flavors (and protein-packed soba noodles), just with a tweaked presentation—genius!
Sneaking veggies into a mac and cheese is super tempting as a parent and this recipe from A Sweet Pea Chef contains butternut squash and extra protein from Greek yogurt and parmesan cheese. This take on an old favorite can be prepped ahead of time and either stored in the refrigerator or frozen until ready to bake.
Because there’s more to life than buttered noodles
If there’s one thing parents can agree on, it’s to pick your battles—especially when it comes to picky eaters. For kids with particular palates, it can be difficult for them to eat at all, much less anything with brightly-colored veggies. That’s why we’ve rounded up simple recipes for picky eaters that will change up your usual fare but aren’t so adventurous they’ll turn their nose up at them.
Picky eaters not only prefer plain meals, but they usually want them quickly. Dash for Dinner has the ultimate compromise: simple, creamy mac and cheese that only requires five ingredients and whips up in the Instant Pot.
Air Fryer Pizza Toast
When it comes to meals for picky eaters, they can usually spy a veggie a mile away. That's why we love this air fryer pizza toast from My Fussy Eater. It's up to you whether you want to make the homemade sauce that sports carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini because it will still be fit for a picky eater thanks to the option to put whatever toppings you like.
Potatoes tend to be friendly with picky eaters, thanks to french fries. If you’re looking to put a new spud recipe into the rotation, we love this idea for mashed potato nuggets from High Chair Chronicles. They are simple and use up mashed potatoes you might have on hand. Better yet, when you dress them up in a fun container, the littles will be even more intrigued to give them a go.
Buttered noodles are common fare, but they get old quickly. This dinner idea for picky eaters slowly adds a new flavor into the mix and is a meal everyone can enjoy. Rasa Malaysia's parmesan garlic noodles come together in 20 minutes and uses simple ingredients that will hopefully fly under your picky eater's radar.
Ok hear us out: we know the idea of a black bean taco may not sit well with a picky eater, but this one is CRISPY. Pinch of Yum (which is run by a mom of two) calls these "black bean crispies" in her house, and they are perfect for kids who don't like meat. The vegetarian recipe for crispy black bean tacos can also be served with a cilantro lime sauce so the adults can dig in, too.
Getting kids to eat fish may seem impossible, but it always helps to camouflage new foods so it looks like something they already like. That's why we think this recipe for parmesan baked fish nuggets may just work, thanks to its chicken nugget vibe. There is no frying involved and everything comes together in less than 30 minutes.
We’re hoping the adorable size of these slider sandwiches will entice picky eaters to give them a try. These ham and cheese poppy seed sliders from Six Sisters Stuff are made with a sauce for extra flavor, but there’s absolutely no reason you can’t leave half the batch sauce-free so there’s something for everyone. Better yet, feel free to mix up different deli meats and cheeses to satisfy your picky eaters.
A great source of protein, but still on the plain side, these bacon and egg cups from Wondermom Wannabe may be the solution to breakfast woes. We like that you can make them ahead of time and customize them with whatever cheese and toppings you like.
Picky eaters eat dessert, too! This four-ingredient recipe for cinnamon sugar tortilla chips from Dinner Then Dessert whips up in 10 minutes and is perfect for all tastebuds. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even serve them with fruit salsa (hey, it might work), ice cream, or a fun dip.
Stop scrolling! We know this photo of a chicken quesadilla has all sorts of things a picky eater might run away from, but we have thoughts. First, Carlsbad Cravings' recipe makes them super crispy which kids tend to gravitate towards. Next, you can pack in as much or little filling as your kids will eat. That can be multiple types of cheese, different meats, veggies—or just skip them entirely. The beauty is in the ability to customize so everyone has something they can enjoy.
No rise whole wheat dough and real mozzarella will make parents actually feel good about serving this pizza. This eight-ingredient recipe for cheese pizza bites from Kristine's Kitchen works great for school lunches or dinner and can be served with a dipping sauce.
We firmly believe the magic of this casserole lies in the base layer: Dorito chips. Bake Me Some Sugar's ground beef Dorito casserole can satisfy everyone at the table—no second or third dinner required. After adding chips to your dish, then it's a matter of topping it with ground beef, beans, and cheese before baking. When it's ready, picky eaters can enjoy it as-is, while more seasoned palates can top it with lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream––or more chips.
A classic carbonara has no cream and no heavy sauce because the eggs do all the work, making it both light and decadent at the same time. This recipe, sure to delight picky eaters, is from Scrummy Lane and gives a lot of tips on how to make the perfect carbonara.
Just think of these meatballs from Kitchen Sanctuary as the secret agents of your dinner table. In addition to a veggie-full sauce, this recipe for picky eaters has a hidden dose of zucchini, onion, and mushrooms. Add it all up and your family will have a favorite new meal that’s actually healthy comfort food.
Psst! Can you keep a secret? This pretty smoothie from Simple Roots Wellness has a lot of berry flavor and a superstar veggie ingredient: cauliflower! Once blended, kids will never know about this sweet treat's mystery ingredient—it’s perfect for breakfast or a snack!
This delicious homemade chicken noodle soup is a win for everyone, including picky eaters. You can't go wrong with this recipe from Jennifer Tyler Lee.
Roll up some ham and cheese for a dinner that will have the little ones forgetting about their pre-boxed meat, cheese, and crackers (you know which ones we're talking about). You and your kids can whip up this recipe for picky eaters from It's Peachy Keen in less than 20 minutes for a fun, fingers-only meal.
You know that stockpile of juice boxes your family has been collecting? This sweet recipe from Oatmeal With a Fork puts them to good use! The chicken is flavorful and easy to make—and we’re willing to bet it’ll be a hit with picky kids and grown-ups alike.
How yummy does this pizza casserole look? Any picky person will love this twist on the classic meat lover's pizza from Bitz & Giggles—it’s the ultimate comfort food.
This berry smoothie recipe from Kristine's Kitchen Blog is a great way for picky kids to have more veggies and have no clue about it! The sweet smoothie will be gone before they even realize they are consuming healthy greens.
Thank goodness for stir fry! If you've got a picky kid who actually likes broccoli (it's possible!) this honey garlic chicken and broccoli stir fry not only features a good amount of the veggie, but it also has sweet and savory flavors that are better than any take-out options. And did we mention it only takes 30 minutes to make?
Fireworks and noodle soup are two fun Lunar New Year traditions for families
Whether it’s called Chinese New Year, Seollal, Shōgatsu, or Tết, Lunar New Year (running officially from New Year’s Eve on Jan 22. through Feb. 5) is a special holiday for more than 1.6 billion people of Asian descent across the globe. Think of it as a cross between the Fourth of July, Passover, Christmas, and the biggest birthday bash ever—all rolled into one. There are some essential customs that many people hold dear, and each one revolves around family, food, fortune, and fun; these Lunar New Year traditions will help you teach your kids about this important holiday.
Prepare for the Lunar New Year
Kipp Jarecke-Cheng
Although it happens in the middle of winter, Lunar New Year is also known as the Spring Festival in many Asian countries. As such, it’s also a time when many families prepare for the new year (and the coming spring) with major house cleaning. Asian superstition dictates that household organization extends to finances too, which means paying off or collecting debts before the new year.
In addition to decorating the house with red paper cutouts and banners—particularly rabbit-themed decorations in 2023—during this festive time, a fun activity to do with kids is folding origami boxes and putting small lights in them as a way to remember ancestors and wish for good luck in the coming year.
Pro-tip: Plan to do housekeeping before the new year commences. Many celebrants believe that sweeping around the house on Lunar New Year’s Day is akin to sweeping away all of your good luck for the year!
Have Some Noodle Soup
Kipp Jarecke-Cheng
There are many different traditional dishes that are enjoyed during Lunar New Year, but one of the most common dishes served across Asian countries during the holiday is a bowl of noodle soup. On Lunar New Year’s Eve and Day, families often eat handmade wheat noodles in a savory broth that includes vegetables and hard-boiled eggs. Long noodles represent longevity and long life, while eggs symbolize rebirth and starting anew.
Pro-tip: Don’t cut the noodles! Slurping is OK and expected. Also, it’s traditional to serve elders and the little ones before serving yourself.
Mo’ Money, Mo’ Fortunes
Kipp Jarecke-Cheng
During Lunar New Year, kids may receive festively decorated red envelopes that are filled with “lucky money,” along with written notes wishing them health, happiness, and success. Known as lai see (Cantonese), ang pao (Hokkien) or hong bao (Mandarin), these red packets also are given during other holidays and special occasions. Increasingly, money is given via red envelope mobile payment apps in many parts of Asia.
Pro-tip: While the amount of cash isn’t as important as the intent behind the gift, many Asian people believe the number or denomination is very important, so you’ll want to make sure you’re putting a “lucky” number inside the red envelopes. Also, make sure to include clean, crisp bills because no one wants to start the new year with crumpled cash.
While many people in America set off fireworks that light up the night sky only during Fourth of July celebrations, firecrackers are the noisemakers of choice for those who commemorate Lunar New Year. Traditionally, the sounds from the small explosions are meant to drive away evil spirits, while strings of firecrackers are invariably red, which is an auspicious and lucky color.
Pro-tip: Since most places require special permits or have banned fireworks and firecrackers outright, take the kiddos to your city or town’s Chinatown, which often has firecracker displays and lion dances during the weeks of the Lunar New Year. Alternately, ringing bells to usher in the Lunar New Year is a perfectly acceptable way to ward off evil spirits this time of year. Plus, you’ll have an excuse to use those jingle bells left over from Christmas.
Dress for Success for Lunar New Year
Kipp Jarecke-Cheng
Dressing in bright colors—especially in red—is common practice during Lunar New Year. Revelers wear their fanciest duds as a way to scare away evil spirits and invite good fortune to them. Some devotees will even go as far as wearing red underpants! Wearing new clothes from head to toe also symbolizes new beginnings for the new year, and wearing something red is the luckiest color of them all.
Pro-tip: Red looks good on everybody.
Take a Family Photo
Kipp Jarecke-Cheng
Most importantly, Lunar New Year is about spending time and celebrating with family and loved ones. For many Asian families, Lunar New Year is the one time in the year when entire extended families get to see each other, so it’s the perfect opportunity to snap an annual family portrait. If you live far away from relatives, this might not be possible, so try other ways to stay connected like these sweet ideas for keeping in touch with grandparents from a distance.
Pro-tip: Your family portrait shouldn’t be too staged or too pose-y. It’s a celebration. Have fun!
From an egg drop soup recipe to beef stew, these meals will warm you up during the cold winter months
When there’s a chill in the air, there’s nothing better than comforting soups, stews, and, of course, chili. From chicken noodle soup to beef strew and even a white chicken chili recipe, these hearty meals and comfort food are perfect for the cooler months. Plus, they’re all one-pot meals that are perfect for busy weeknights. So bundle up, simmer down, and scroll on for our favorite slow cooker stews, two-step soups, chili recipes, and more.
For a quick take on a popular version of chili, we like Boulder Locavore's Instant Pot version. It only takes 15 minutes and you can make it mild or spicy, depending on your preference. Don't have an Instant Pot? No Worries! Try this version instead.
Love your Instant Pot? You'll love it even more once you try this chili recipe from The Bearded Hiker. Just sauté your beef, add your veggies, beans, and spices, and voila!
This delish stew from Mindy’s Cooking Obsession is the perfect cure for a comfort food craving. Best of all, you can throw all the ingredients in the Crock Pot in the morning and have a warm meal ready when it’s time for dinner.
If your kids can't get enough chili and they love mac and cheese, you can get the best of both worlds with this soup from Baking with Blondie! It comes together in about 30 minutes and is extra tasty in a bread bowl or sprinkled with some sharp cheddar.
There's no reason for vegetarians to be left out of the chili fun! This dish (which uses the crock pot!) includes three kinds of beans and is gluten- and dairy-free. Get the recipe here.
This soup from The Cake Chica is just what your grilled cheese needs! It uses the freshest ingredients and takes two—count ‘em, two steps. And if you have a blender or food processor, it's that much easier!
Your busy workdays just got better with this recipe from Kristine’s Kitchen Blog. It’s bursting with healthy vegetables and flavors, and since it cooks all day in your Crock Pot, there’s not much work involved.
Ditch the questionable instant ramen and whip up your own with this recipe from Aviva Goldfarb of The Six O’Clock Scramble. Your little noodle lovers will love all the fresh flavors, like ginger and lime!
More broccoli, please! That’s what the kids will be saying, thanks to this soup from Kitchen Sanctuary. It’s creamy and even has a couple of other veggies thrown in. Top with bacon for an extra treat!
Great news! This recipe from Prevention RD uses ingredients you probably have on hand. And there’s a healthy twist: low-sodium chicken broth, whole wheat pasta, and lots of variations if you want to add your fave veggies.
This recipe from Closet Cooking is Mexican street corn (think: corn, lime, cheese, avocado) and is surprisingly easy to pull off. And, since you can use fresh or frozen corn and customize the spices to suit your family, you can whip this up any time of the year!
For fans of chicken pot pie, this Kitchen Sanctuary takes the cake. It has the same comfort-food flavors, and you can customize it with your kids’ favorite veggies. It’s also a cinch to make!
Not only does this soup (courtesy of Jen at How To: Simplify) feature kid-friendly tortellini, but it also sneaks in some spinach for extra veggie points. It’s sure to warm you up, fill you up, and get the whole fam asking for seconds.
If your family loves lasagna, you’ve got to give this soup from Boulder Locavore a try. It’s got all the same flavors, without the hours of preparation (Psst! It’s also great for gluten-free diets!).
Simmer up a big helping of this delish soup from Mom’s Kitchen Handbook! It’s simple, so the kids can get involved in the cooking process—put them to work crushing tortilla chips!
We’re willing to bet that this soup from Life Made Simple is going to be your new cold-weather staple. It’s thick, creamy, and just like a loaded potato with all the fixings! And did we mention it’s a quick and easy one-pot recipe?
If egg drop soup is your kids' fave thing to order at Chinese restaurants, you’re in luck. This recipe from One Lovely Life is a great homemade option. It can be made in no time and is a total crowd-pleaser.
This recipe, courtesy of Food Blogga, is the very definition of comfort food. It’s super easy and super tasty. You can make it ahead of time to wow kids and grownups alike.
The best way to eat more veggies? Slurp them! This soup from Kitchen Sanctuary is chock-full of healthy vegetables and cheesy to boot. Plus, the veggies have an extra oven-cooked flavor for a truly tasty meal.
Skinny Clam Chowder
My Healthy Eating
Nix the usual heavy cream that comes with clam chowder. This recipe from Mireya at My Healthy Eating Habits is a healthier version of the classic, and it uses your slow cooker, so it’s a great set-it-and-forget-it meal.
Thanks to a few shortcuts, this recipe from Kim’s Cravings is super easy to make. Grab pre-made meatballs and jarred marinara sauce and you’re halfway there!
This Chinese New Year is an extra special one, so don’t miss out on the celebrations at one of these family-friendly events in the DMV
Get ready for the bunny puns as we hop into the year of the rabbit! The Chinese Lunar New Year—also known as the Spring Festival—kicks off the first day of the lunisolar year and marks the start of the spring season. It’s 15 straight days of celebrations (from new moon to full moon) and is the most important holiday for many East Asian countries. Get ready for celebratory fanfare as families gather to usher out the old year and welcome a new year of fortune and good luck. For those in the market for extra good fortune, the rabbit is considered to be the luckiest of the 12 zodiac signs. But because you can never be too lucky, we’ve rounded up the best Chinese Lunar New Year events in Washington, DC—from traditional dragon dances to eating lucky meals made of “longevity” noodles—for a very hoppy new year. Bonus: these events are all educational, too!
Chinese Lunar New Year Activities for Kids in Washington, DC
Watch the Chinese Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown
In celebration of the Zodiac's luckiest animal, the rabbit, this parade will be historically the largest to date. Chinese traditions will be on display including lion dance troupes, traditional costume teams, drum teams and more alongside community groups like the Almas Shriners, the Girl Scouts and even the Washington Wizard's dance team. There is a fireworks finale at 3:45 p.m.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library is celebrating the year of the rabbit all month long with a Zodiac-themed reading challenge. Can you read your way through the Chinese zodiac? Pick a book based on one of the twelve Zodiac signs (tiger, dog, rat, dragon, ox, rabbit, snake, goat, pig, horse, rooster and monkey). Get through all 12 signs and you'll receive a prize!
DC Chefs Danny Lee and Scott Drewno, co-owners of CHIKO and Anju, will share family traditions while demonstrating how to cook traditional holiday dishes at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery.
Cost: Free Date: Jan. 21 from 1-2 p.m.
1050 Independence Ave SW National Mall Online:si.edu
Explore Chinese and Korean New Year's Traditions at SAAM
Learn about traditions across Chinese and Korean cultures at this annual event featuring performances, hands-on craft projects, an interactive scavenger hunt regional foods and more. A special Lunar New Year menu will be offered in the Courtyard Cafe.
Cost: Free Date: Jan. 28 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
8th and G St. NW Gallery Place/Chinatown Online:si.edu
Chinese Lunar New Year Activities for Kids in Virginia
Buddhist monks were the first to use glowing lanterns in their Lunar celebrations around 50 AD (around the same time it is believed Buddhism arrived in China). To honor Buddha, others adopted this tradition. Today, lanterns represent the symbolic nature of illuminating the future. Stroll through over 10,000 handmade Chinese lanterns at the Winter Lantern Festival in Tysons Corner. In addition to the stunning, larger-than-life lantern displays, there are parent-powered rides, like a steel roller coaster, Instagrammable photo ops on LED swings and live performances.
Cost: $17.99/children; $29.99/adults Dates:Thurs.-Sun., now-Feb. from 5-1- p.m.
Celebrate the year of the rabbit at the largest Lunar New Year festival in the tai-state area! This annual event at the Dulles Expo Center showcases Vietnamese culture and traditions through exhibits, dance performances, arts and crafts and more.
4320 Chantilly Shopping Center Chantilly, Virginia Online:unation.com
Make Lunar New Year Decorations at Oakton Library
Get crafty with Lunar New Year-themed activities at the Oakton Library. Make traditional red envelopes to gift money in, create a money tree to hang the envelopes on and fashion lanterns out of paper. There will also be a traditional lion dance performed by the Taiwan Fun group.
Head to Thomas S. Wootton High School for an educational day of performances, activities and food. Coordinated in partnership with the town, Rockville's Asian Pacific American Taskforce invites the community to celebrate Asian culture during this free annual event.
If you are looking for a lunar celebration that showcases traditions and customs across many East Asian cultures, check out this all-weekend waterfront festival. The weekend lineup includes Chinese shadow puppets, sugar painting, paper cutting, Chinese watercolor painting, red lantern crafts and more.
Spend the day at The Walter Museum for free, hands-on fun. In honor of Lunar New Year, the museum is hosting lion dances, live performances, art workshops and more.
This Japanese noodle soup recipe is easy to make and hearty enough to make a meal
Scallions and fresh ginger spice the broth, while carrots, mushrooms, and noodles make a hearty base in this Japanese Vegetable Noodle Soup recipe. Your little chef will love squeezing lime juice into this flavorful soup, served alongside orange slices.
Ingredients for Japanese Vegetable Noodle Soup
64 ounces low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 1-inch piece fresh ginger
2 cups bok choy, sliced, or 2 cups Napa cabbage, sliced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
2 carrots, sliced on the diagonal
8 16-ounce extra-firm tofu, drained and cubed
6 ounces ramen noodles, flavor packet discarded
4 scallions, thinly sliced
1/2 lime, juiced
1/4 cup cilantro, mint or basil, chopped
6 oranges, cut into wedges, for serving
Method:
1. Adult: Place the broth, soy sauce, and ginger in a large pot over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil.
2. Together: Add the cabbage or bok choy, mushrooms, carrots, and tofu, stirring after each addition. Cook for about 2 minutes.
3. Together: Add the ramen noodles, taking care to discard the flavor packet. Reduce heat and keep the soup at a low boil. Keep at a low boil for 3 minutes more, or until the ramen is just cooked.
4. Kid: Add the scallions, lime juice, and fresh herbs to the pot. Cook for about 1 minute more, or until all the ingredients are heated through.
5. Together: Divide the soup into 6 bowls, place on plates with the orange wedges, and enjoy!