Part sweet and part savory, this stir-fry dish is a cinch to make and will please any kid’s picky palate

Inspired by her husband’s love of chicken wings, Kari of GI 365 created this Honey Garlic Chicken stir-fry recipe that features the same sweet and savory flavors of her hubby’s favorite dish. Your kids will love the flavor combination, and you’ll love that making this healthy meal only takes 30 minutes. It’s a win-win.

Serves 4

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken:

Sauce:
⅓ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
1 Tablespoon organic cornstarch
⅓ cup honey

Stir-Fry:
1 medium onion, diced ½”
1½ pounds broccoli, stems peeled
1 pound chicken thighs, cut into 1″ cubes
2 Tablespoons avocado oil, (or olive oil)
¼ cup water
3 cloves garlic, minced

Method:
1. Start by mixing the soy sauce and cornstarch together until the cornstarch dissolves. Add the honey to the soy sauce mixture, but you don’t need to combine them (this happens in the pan).

2. Thinly slice the peeled broccoli stems, cut the florets into 1″ pieces, and set the broccoli aside with the onion.

3. Preheat a large skillet over high heat.

4. When the pan is almost smoking, add 1 Tablespoon of avocado oil and the chicken cubes. Sauté for about 2 minutes to brown before turning the chicken cubes, and cooking until golden brown and done in the center. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

5. Reduce the heat to medium-high and add the remaining 1 Tablespoon of avocado oil to the pan. Add the onion and broccoli, and cook stirring every 30 seconds for 3-5 minutes or until the onions begin to soften and the broccoli turns bright green but is still crisp.

6. Add the ¼ cup of water to the pan, cover with a lid, and simmer for 3 minutes until the water has mostly evaporated and the broccoli is just tender.

7. Add the sautéed chicken, minced garlic, and the sauce into the skillet.

8. Stir to incorporate the honey, and simmer for 1-2 minutes to thicken the sauce. Serve immediately.

For more fantastic recipes, visit GI 365 by clicking here. 

The step that takes the longest in this five-step recipe? Boiling the water!

Your busy weeknight calls for a lightning-fast dinner. Next time you need to make dinner in a pinch, check out this Pesto Chicken Pasta recipe from Regina of the food blog, Leelalicious. It takes only 20 minutes to make and offers a nice balance of carbs, protein, and greens (from the pesto).

Yields 2-3 servings

Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Pasta:

8 ounces dry pasta* (I used fusilli)
1 chicken breast, cut into thin strips
salt + pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ cup pesto
chopped almonds and feta crumbles for garnish

Notes from the Chef: *use gluten-free, whole wheat, or low-glycemic pasta according to needs and preferences

Method:

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add dry pasta, and cook until al dente.

2. Cut chicken breast into small strips. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet, add chicken strips and sear until fully cooked.

4. Add ¼ cup of the pasta water to the skillet with the chicken. Drain pasta, then add to chicken together with pesto and stir everything until fully combined.

5. Serve hot and garnish with chopped almonds and feta crumbles.

For more delicious meal ideas your family will love hop on over to Leelalicious. And, don’t forget to follow her on Facebook by clicking here.  

If your kids love pasta but you want to change up your dinnertime routine, try out this easy Baked Ziti. Make it ahead of time and bake it when needed. From the refrigerator, the dish usually needs an additional 15 minutes of cooking time.

Ingredients for Easy Baked Ziti: 

1 pound dry ziti pasta
1 finely chopped onion
1 lb ground beef
2 (26 ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
8 slices of provolone cheese
1 1/2 cups sour cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Method:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add pasta, and cook for about 8-9 minutes; drain.

2. In a large skillet, brown onion and ground beef over medium heat. Add spaghetti sauce, heat through, then remove from heat.

3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking oil spray.

4. Layer as follows: 1/2 of the ziti, 1/2 of the sauce, Provolone cheese, sour cream, remaining ziti, remaining sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the cheeses are melted. Cover with foil for the first 15-20 minutes of baking, then remove the foil so the cheese will melt and the top will brown.

recipe courtesy of Sisters’ Gourmet

Your family is going to love these easy iron skillet recipes

When it comes to cooking, sometimes the cleanup (all those pots and pans!) makes us want to start scrolling through our favorite meal delivery apps instead. That’s why we’ve been searching for the best meals you can make in a cast iron skillet. This kitchen must-have heats everything evenly, can saute, sear, bake and broil and goes right from the stovetop to the oven—making it ideal for one-pot meals. From cast iron skillet steak to a Pizookie, we’ve got 16 iron skillet recipes you’ll want to put on repeat.

Roasted Cod

https://www.instagram.com/p/CHa6dW5HcL4/?hidecaption=true

Check out this versatile recipe for roasted cod and potatoes. You can add whatever you like to spice up the potatoes and fish. It's hard to go wrong!

Cider-Braised Chicken

https://www.instagram.com/p/CViHBgbFK45/?hidecaption=true

Try these cider-braised chicken thighs with apples. The family is going to love this fresh and delicious recipe.

Cast Iron Skillet Frittata

Carlsbad Cravings

This cast iron skillet recipe for frittata might have bacon, but this breakfast meal is very vegetarian friendly, as you can add just about anything you like! Get the recipe over at Carlsbad Cravings.

Deep Dish Skillet Pizza

iron skillet recipe for pizza
Taste of Madness

Pizza is always a family favorite, and this deep dish cast iron skillet version is a cinch to make. One thing to note: This recipe takes almost two hours from start to finish, so be sure to plan this for a Friday night, weekend, or day you know you’ll have time to get it done. Grab the recipe over at A Taste of Madness.

Related: 21 Simple Dinners That Use One Pan

Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet

shrimp and asparagus iron skillet recipe
The Recipe Critic

This easy cast iron skillet recipe can be completed from start to finish in less than 30 minutes, plus it only has a handful of ingredients, which makes it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Get the recipe over at The Recipe Critic.

Skillet Chicken Tortilla Pie

iron skillet recipe for tortilla pie
Pinch of Yum

This one-pot meal has the feeling of enchiladas, but the mild flavor is ideal for picky eaters. This one takes over an hour, but it makes two pies, so you’ll have plenty of leftovers for another night. Get the recipe from Pinch of Yum.

Cast Iron Skillet Steak

cast iron skillet steak recipe
The View from Great Island

There’s a certain something about cooking a skirt steak in a cast iron skillet, and The View from Great Island has a great tutorial—only 5 steps!

Crispy Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Food Fanatic

Chicken thighs are one of the most versatile dinner ingredients—they can be made in dozens of ways. Using a cast iron skillet, this crispy version will cook quickly, and your cleanup will be a cinch. Get the recipe from Food Fanatic.

Honey-Hoisin Pork Tenderloin

Hoisin pork iron skillet recipe
Kristine's Kitchen Blog

The hardest part about this recipe is making sure you get the pork marinated for at least 30 minutes (and up to a day) before tossing it in your cast iron skillet to brown and then popping it into the oven. Get the recipe at Kristine’s Kitchen Blog.

Related: 50+ Slow Cooker Recipes We’re Obsessed With

Cheesy Skillet Meatballs with Garlic Toast

The View from Great Island

Soft and flavorful meatballs? Check. Stringy, gooey, yummy cheese? Check. Garlic toast for crunch? Check! These skillet meatballs check every box when it comes to comfort food. Get the recipe from The View from Great Island.

Skillet Chicken Pot Pie

iron skillet recipe for chicken pot pie
Scrambled Chefs

Our mouths are watering at the sight of this chicken pot pie made in a cast iron skillet. It’s got the flaky crust and savory inside you know and love, but used store-bought shortcuts, which make it perfect for families. Get the recipe from Scrambled Chefs.

Lemon Garlic Mahi Mahi

iron skillet recipe for mahi mahi
A Taste of Madness

All you need to make this mahi mahi is a handful of pantry items and 15 minutes; it’s hard to say you don’t have time to make dinner with a cast iron skillet recipe like this one. Get the recipe over at A Taste of Madness.

Easy Steak Fajitas

iron skillet recipe for steak fajitas
Isabel Eats

Fajitas are always a crowd-pleasing meal, and a cast iron skillet version makes it an easy weeknight dinner option. We love the version from Isabel Eats because she offers up tips and tricks that’ll up your fajita game.

Vegetarian Skillet Lasagna

Weelicious

This Vegetarian Skillet Lasagna from Weelicious is packed with veggies and is oh-so-delicious! It'll be a family favorite.

Related: Soup, Stew & Chili Recipes to Warm You Up This Winter 

Easy Pork Cutlets

iron skillet recipe for pork cutlets
Brit Co

This recipe only has about five ingredients, takes about 15 minutes to make and is full of flavor. You’ll want to add this one to your recipe rotation for sure. Get the recipe from Brit + Co.

Sesame Beef and Broccoli

sesame broccoli and beef iron skillet recipe
Pinch of Yum

One of the most popular items on a Chinese Food takeout menu, this cast iron skillet version from a Pinch of Yum tastes just as good (or better!). Full of protein and sweet garlicky-ginger flavor, you won’t even miss the stuff that comes in the little box.

Chocolate Chip Pizookie Skillet Cookie

iron skillet recipe for a chocolate chip pizookie
Boulder Locavore

Ahh, a giant cookie baked in a cast iron skillet. Pretty much our idea of heaven. A cross between a pizza and a cookie, you can make one big one or go with mini cast iron pans for individual treats. Get the recipes over at Boulder Locavore.

Skillet Mexican Brownie

iron skillet recipes
Weelicious

You cant go wrong with this scrumptious Skillet Mexican Brownie from Weelicious. Top this gooey brownie with a scoop of your favorite vanilla ice cream!

Who needs a restaurant on Mother’s Day when you can pull off these delicious meals at home? Your mini sous chefs can get involved too. Read on for all of our best Mother’s Day brunch recipes—we guarantee Mom will be feasting like a queen in no time (bonus points if you serve this as breakfast in bed!). 

Easy Eggs Benedict

eggs Benedict is one of the most classic Mother's Day Brunch recipes
The Merlin Menu

It’s not as hard as it seems, we promise! This recipe makes eggs benedict a breeze thanks to a smart poaching method and a Hollandaise sauce that’s blitzed up in the blender. Get the details for one of the most classic Mother's Day brunch recipes here.

Orange Ciabatta French Toast

The Auntie Em’s Cookbook

French toast is already awesome, but it’s made even more awesome when you use ciabatta bread and flavor it with orange zest. Mom will love waking up to this—here is the recipe.

Potato Skillet with Baked Eggs

If Mom is hankering for something savory, chances are this skillet dish will hit the spot. It has bacon, potatoes and eggs, and you can even sneak in some spinach and peas for a complete and balanced meal. Here is the recipe.

Blueberry Muffins

blueberry muffins on a plate
Joshua Flores on Unsplash

When it comes to Mother's Day brunch recipes, nothing beats a homemade blueberry muffin, especially when little ones help make them just for their mama. This version is finished with a cinnamon sugar streusel topping. Find the recipe here.

Savory Parmesan Bread Pudding

The Little Epicurean

With toasty bread, chunks of thick-cut bacon and a generous sprinkling of cheese, this savory bread pudding is bound to impress Mom. Pair it with coffee and orange juice for the ultimate brunch. To get the recipe, head to The Little Epicurean.

Broccoli Frittata

add broccoli frittata to your mother's day brunch recipes
iStock

Keep it simple and whip up a classic frittata for Mother’s Day. We love that frittatas are infinitely customizable, so you can throw in whatever veggies or cheese your family enjoys. Grab the recipe here.

Buttermilk Pancakes

Calum Lewis via Unsplash

You can't go wrong with a classic. This recipe is a step above boxed mixes, creating a super fluffy and beautiful pancake that rivals Mom's favorite 24-hour diner. Get the full recipe here.

Fruit and Cereal Bouquet

Kix Cereal

Here's one of the cutest Mother's Day brunch recipes out there. Kids can use cookie cutters to make a sweet and colorful fruit bouquet for the person who has probably poured a thousand bowls of cereal by now. Get the full instructions at Kix Cereal.

Eggs in a Basket

Improv Oven

It doesn't get much more simple (or tasty!) than this recipe from Improv Oven. Paired with toast and fruit, it's a meal that will impress the person of the hour. 

Yogurt Parfait

Completely Delicious

Serve a cool breakfast treat like any of these gorgeous yogurt parfaits. Gather other recipes to whip up a menu item mom will be sure to savor, or keep it simple and use store-bought ingredients. Get the recipes at Completely Delicious.

Peach Mimosas

B. Britnell

What's brunch without a mimosa? Dress up the classic sparkling sipper with B. Britnell's recipe, which incorporates a splash of peach nectar and a slice of peach for a garnish (or substitute with Mom's favorite fruit). 

Strawberry Lemon Iced Tea

Ashley Marie's Kitchen

Even the mama who loves a good, strong cup of joe will be thrilled to find this on her tray. Brewed fresh, she'll love the citrusy-sweet twist on a lunchtime staple from Ashley Marie's Kitchen

RELATED STORIES:
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13 Last-Minute Mother’s Day Gifts You Can Totally Pull Off

Warm up from the inside out with these easy dinner ideas

When you’ve got tiny humans to keep happy and fed through the winter, it doesn’t get much better than comfort food—hearty soups, stews, and pasta dishes, yum! Fight off cabin fever by making one of these satisfying dishes that’ll warm you up from the inside out. Bonus points for most of these comfort food recipes being big portions; you’ll have plenty of leftovers too. 

Cream of Tomato Soup

The Cake Chica

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! Get the recipe here.

Creamy Winter Squash Soup

Veggies Don’t Bite

Make use of in-season squash to whip up this tasty soup from Veggies Don’t Bite. As an added bonus, it’s super healthy—the thickness comes from pureed walnuts and cashews rather than heavy cream. Click here to grab the recipe.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

The Magical Slow Cooker

If you’re having Thanksgiving cravings, you’ve got to make this delicious chicken and gravy by Sarah Olson. Since it’s made in the slow cooker, it tastes like your favorite Turkey Day food without hours of work. Grab the recipe by clicking here.

Goulash

Slim Shoppin’

This delicious goulash from Slim Shoppin’ can be thrown together in less than half an hour using ingredients you probably already have in the pantry. Little ones will love the hearty pasta mix. To get the recipe, click here.

Revamped Spaghetti Carbonara

Gourmet Dough

Gourmet Dough’s twist on spaghetti carbonara updates the classic dish with pancetta, cream and a splash of white wine (the alcohol burns off, of course!). Comfort food never tasted so good. To find out how it’s made, click here.

Asian Chicken Thighs

The Midnight Baker

We love warming up with a big plate of Asian food, and these chicken thighs from The Midnight Baker totally fit the bill. Pair the soy sauce-coated chicken with a side of veggie fried rice, and you’ve got a meal that’ll please your whole crew. Snag the recipe by clicking here.

Slow Cooker Meatball Subs

Garnish with Lemon

This super easy take on meatball subs from Garnish with Lemon is perfect for a busy day. Just pop everything in the crockpot in the morning, then build the cheesy subs when it’s time for dinner. To see the recipe, click here.

Roast Chops with Apples, Spuds and Cider

Kerry Altiero’s Adventures in Comfort Food

Pork chops are super yummy when paired with apples, and the whole fam is sure to love this recipe from Kerry Altiero. With the addition of potatoes and kale, you’re set with a one-dish meal that couldn’t be more delicious. To grab the recipe, click here.

Roasted Poblano and Corn Soup

Veggies Don’t Bite

Warm up with a comforting bowl of poblano and corn soup from Veggies Don’t Bite. A great choice for Meatless Monday, it’s delicious topped with a drizzle of garlicky lemon crema. Get the recipe by clicking here.

One-Pot Skillet Ravioli & Spinach Lasagna

Aberdeen’s Kitchen

Lasagna that’s ready in 20 minutes? Sign us up! This recipe from Aberdeen’s Kitchen uses store-bought ravioli instead of the traditional lasagna noodles. Get all the details by clicking here.

Spinach Fettuccine Alfredo

Frou Frou & Frills

This fettuccine alfredo from Frou Frou & Frills is sure to be an instant kid favorite. Sneak in some mushrooms and spinach to up the healthy factor. Get the recipe by clicking here.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Food Network

Saucy pulled pork is one of our go-to comfort foods, and this recipe from Food Network is the ultimate BBQ dish. Your whole crew will love the perfectly tender, tangy pork. Click here to get the recipe.

Crock Pot Mushroom Chicken

Cooking with Karyn

This five-ingredient chicken dish from Easy Crock Pot Recipes will make dinnertime a breeze. It’s great served over pasta and rice, and little ones will love the creamy taste. Get the recipe by clicking here.

Pork Tenderloin with Pan Sauce

Chef Mommy

For a super comforting dish, you’ve got to try this pork recipe from Chef Mommy. The pan sauce keeps the meat super moist, and paired with potatoes and veggies, you’ve got a healthy meal for the whole family. Click here to see the recipe.

Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken

Weelicious

Cook up some tropical flavors to get you through the holidays with this sweet and sour chicken dish. Soy, honey and ginger are just some of the ingredients that go into creating a meal that keeps its flavor and works great for lunch and dinner. Head to Weelicious for the recipe.

Classic Chicken Stew

Mindy's Cooking Obsession

There's something about the word "stew" that invokes chilly autumn nights and full tummies. This classic chicken stew recipe will is definitely on the top of the comfort foods list. Get the full recipe here

Crock Pot Seasoned Chicken with Peppers & Onions

The Seasoned Mom

This slow cooker recipe from The Seasoned Mom is sure to find a place in your meal rotation. There are lots of ways to remix it—serve it with pasta or rice, or make it into a cheesy sandwich. Plus, if you’re an Instant Pot fan, it can be put to use with this recipe

Butter Chicken

One Lovely Life

Your littles will love this dairy-free butter chicken from One Lovely Life. The creamy, flavorful sauce, paired with rice or quinoa, is sure to have the whole fam asking for seconds. To snag the recipe, click here.

 

If your little one’s favorite food groups are chicken tenders and mac and cheese, you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up a bunch of recipes that range from easy homemade mac and cheese to cauliflower mac and cheese. Some of these recipes incorporate other things like sweet potatoes to chicken, so whether you’re looking for rich indulgence or a lightened-up version, we’ve got you covered. See our favorite mac and cheese recipes below. 

 

Gluten-Free Chili Mac

One Lovely Life

A spin on two classic family recipes, this cheesy gluten-free chili mac only has three ingredients, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Don't want to go gluten free? Swap out the gluten-free shells for regular pasta instead. Get the how-to over at One Lovely Life. 

Gnocchi Mac and Cheese

A Taste of Madness

A unique twist on a classic meal, this gnocchi mac and cheese only requires five ingredients and takes 30 minutes to make. Find the recipe over at A Taste of Madness

Copycat Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese

iStock

The mac and cheese side dish is a favorite at Cracker Barrel, and it's easy to re-create your own version at home by using the recipe we spotted at Eat This, Not That! Be sure to use good Colby cheese and don't stop whisking! 

White Cheddar Avocado Mac and Cheese

Jessie Johnson via Life As a Strawberry

Cheese? Check. Avocado? Check. Noodles? Check! This recipe from Life As A Strawberry has all your kids' favorite ingredients, mixed up into one delicious batch of mac and cheese. The easy-to-make avocado sauce gets a kick from cilantro and the white cheddar has a smooth flavor that'll please adults too. Get the recipe by clicking here

The Easiest Stove Top Mac and Cheese

Mariana Ibanez via Unsplash

Sometimes you just want mac and cheese from a pot on the stove. To help you skip the processed and the packaging, we found this recipe from The Kitchn. Using cheese, milk and flour, you'll have a gooey, cheesy meal ready to go in a few. You can even throw in peas or peppers to give it a little something else. 

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Thanksgiving instant pot recipes
Photo by Hermes Rivera on Unsplash

If you thought slow cooker mac and cheese was easy, wait until you get a glance at the recipe for an Instant Pot version we spotted over at Spend with Pennies. Even easier, you'll be eating cheesy noodles in no time.

Three-Cheese Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Host the Toast

Using a mix of cheddar, gruyere and American cheeses, Host the Toast has come up with a delicious three-cheese Crock Pot mac and cheese that your kids will love. 

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

My Fussy Eater

My Fussy Eater has found a way to sneak veggies into your kids' dinner without the inevitable "ewww" that follows. Butternut squash, which is a great source of vitamins A and C, plus fiber, and its smooth texture when cooked (not to mention that yellow color) combines perfectly with cheese, for serious pasta goodness. 

Baked Mac and Cheese

Tina Witherspoon via Unsplash

We love The Chunky Chef's version for its gourmet cheese combo: medium cheddar and Gruyere. We also love the secret to getting that irresistible cheesiness.

Panera Bread Copycat Mac and Cheese

Smells Like Home

If you are obsessed with mac and cheese Panera-style, then this one is for you. For everyone else, this one is for you too. Made on the stovetop, with a hint of Dijon, this incredible copycat recipe from Smells Like Home will be your new favorite.

Homemade Kraft Easy Mac

lunch ideas for kids
Food Fanatic

Mac and cheese is a surefire win for our kids, which is why we love this take on easy mac from Food Fanatic. The best part? It’s made entirely in the microwave and comes together in a flash. 

Make-Ahead Mac and Cheese

Kristine's Kitchen

You can never have too many mac and cheese recipes! We’re digging this one from Kristine’s Kitchen because it’s a snap to make and you can refrigerate it up to two days before baking. It's a cheesy win-win! 

Crock Pot Mac 'n' Cheese

The Chunky Chef

Mac 'n' cheese that doesn't require boiling noodles or standing over a stove, stirring for what feels like hours on end? Yes, please! We couldn't believe our luck when we happened upon this recipe for Crock Pot mac and cheese from The Chunky Chef. You'll get all the same cheesy goodness with practically no effort. 

3-Cheese Mac n Cheese

Taryn Elliott via Unsplash

This macaroni and cheese recipe uses three different kinds of cheese (awesome!) and is made only in five easy steps. Kids will love the creamy and hearty taste of the dish, while parents will breathe a sigh of relief that this recipe is not only delicious but quick and easy as well.

Baked Mac and Cheese from Damn Delicious

iStock

This baked mac and cheese is perfect for a cozy night at home. The creamy cheese sauce is hidden beneath a crunchy top—yum! Get the recipe over at Damn Delicious

Baked Artisan Mac and Cheese

Veggies Don't Bite

Comfort food that is good for you? It does exist, thanks to this whole food-based makeover from Veggies Don't Bite. This sharp white mac 'n' cheese bake is as creamy and delicious, you'll never be able to tell that it's gluten and dairy free. 

Green Macaroni and Cheese

Weelicious

Try out this veggie-fied take on mac and cheese from Weelicious. No food coloring is needed—spinach and broccoli are the key ingredients to make the mix bright green. 

Skinny Ham Mac ‘n’ Cheese

Honey & Figs

For a lightened-up take on your favorite dish, you’ve got to try this skinny mac ‘n’ cheese from Honey & Figs. Made with whole wheat noodles, a touch of barbecue sauce and Greek yogurt for added creaminess, it’s sure to be a hit with your crew. 

Cauliflower Macaroni and Cheese

Love & Risotto

Cauliflower pairs perfectly with mac and cheese in this genius recipe from Love & Risotto. Once it’s topped with breadcrumbs and broiled to make a crunchy topping, even picky kids will be on board. 

Cajun Mac and Cheese

Living Well Kitchen

Mac and cheese goes Cajun in Living Well Kitchen’s hearty recipe. With andouille sausage, shrimp and lots of cheese, it’s going to be an instant hit. 

Baked Goat Cheese Mac and Cheese with Roasted Broccoli

The Wooden Skillet

Fancy up your mac and cheese with this recipe from The Wooden Skillet. We love the combination of tangy goat cheese and charred broccoli. 

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Superman Cooks

This recipe from Superman Cooks combines two of our favorite things to make an instant family fave. 

Killer Mac and Cheese with Bacon

Recipe Diaries

Treat the family to this super-indulgent dish from Recipe Diaries. You know what they say—everything tastes better with bacon. 

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Running with Spoons

If you’ve got a vegan in your family (or are just trying out Meatless Monday), this vegan mac and cheese from Running with Spoons is your new best friend. It’s pretty easy to pull off using items you probably have in your pantry, plus some nutritional yeast. 

One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

Damn Delicious

This recipe from Damn Delicious combines two of our favorite comfort foods into one delish meal. The best part? You’ll only need one pot! 

Cottage Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese

24 Carrot Life

This lightened-up version from 24 Carrot Life makes use of cottage cheese and dijon mustard to create a surefire kid favorite. 

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Miss Hangry Pants

Pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween—Miss Hangry Pants serves up this delish recipe with a fall-inspired twist. The pumpkin adds extra earthiness and makes the sauce even creamier. 

One Pot Andouille Sausage Skillet Pasta

Damn Delicious

Dinner will be on the table in no time thanks to this one-pot recipe from Damn Delicious

White Cheese Pesto Mac

PDX Food Love

Class up your dinner with PDX Food Love’s recipe for pesto mac and cheese. Herby and creamy, it’s tasty enough to please the whole family. 

Skillet Pizza Mac and Cheese

Well Floured

This recipe from Well Floured is sure to be an instant hit in your family. Plus, it’s easy to throw together in the skillet. 

Roasted Red Pepper Mac and Cheese

The Stay at Home Chef

Sneak some veggies into your dinner with this recipe from The Stay at Home Chef. The roasted peppers, ground mustard, and a dash of hot sauce work together to make a perfect weeknight meal. 

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese Cups

Healthy Food for Living

We love these cute little mac and cheese cups from Healthy Food for Living. Picky kiddos won’t even notice the sweet potatoes. 

Roasted Vegetable Mac and Cheese

Funnylove

Funnylove’s mac and cheese is a great way to sneak some veggies into your little one’s diet. You can sub in your family’s preferred vegetables, too. 

—Gabby Cullen with Susie Foresman

Featured image: iStock 

 

RELATED STORIES:

15-Minute Trader Joe’s Meal Hacks to Try Tonight

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Soup, Stew & Chili Recipes to Warm You Up

 

These kitchen workhorses with a French flair have been favorites for generations and last just as long. You’ll find many of the most popular items like the Le Creuset Wide Dutch Oven and Le Creuset Signature Roaster heavily discounted as part of the Factory to Table Sale. Find one you like? Buy it now as when they’re gone, they’re gone!

ON SALE: Le Creuset Round Dutch Oven

Quite possibly the most iconic item in the Le Creuset collection, the Round Dutch Oven is a piece of cookware that will have you slow cooking coq au vin in no time. Or, pop it in the oven to bake the perfect crust on your quarantine sourdough bread loaf. 

2 3/4 qt on sale for $155

4 1/2 qt on sale for $208

ON SALE: Le Creuset Signature Skillet

The enameled cast iron Signature Skillet is a versatile kitchen essential for searing, sauteing, stir-frying and more. You'll love how the cook surface becomes more nonstick over time. 

On sale for $72-114

ON SALE: Botanique Collection Mini Cocottes

From cobblers to gratins to pot pies, everything tastes better when it comes in a perfectly portioned individual Mini Round Cocotte. We love the cute colors of this set! On sale for $60, down from $100. 

ON SALE: Le Creuset Signature Roaster with Lid

Anyone who cooks for a family know that the Signature Roaster is a dinner staple. Made of cast iron, it retains heat well and can transfer from oven to table with ease. 

On sale for $186

ON SALE: Soup Pot

The Soup Pot is the ideal vessel for soups, stews, one-pot meals and more. On sale for $150, from $250.

ON SALE: Le Creuset Round Wide Dutch Oven

This beauty is destined to sit on your stovetop as you'll want to use it every day. Braising, roasting, baking and frying, this workhorse can do it all. It's currently on sale for $183, down from $305. 

ON SALE: Le Creuset Chrysenth Kettle

Perfect for tea drinkers, oatmeal eaters and cup o' noodle connoisseurs, you'll love having this little cutie on your cooktop year-round. On sale for $60, down from $100. 

 

ON SALE: Le Creuset Nonstick Stainless Steel Fry Pan

When you are wanting to cook up an omelet or sear some fish, only non-stick will do. Le Creuset's Nonstick Stainless Steel Fry Pan has a super-strong non-stick coating that will last for years. Bonus: it's dishwasher safe. Set of two on sale for $153 from $255. 

ON SALE: Le Creuset Multi Bowl

This bowl tops our list because you can totally use it to mix up a big salad and serve from it as well. Save yourself having to do more dishes! On sale for $25.20, down from $42.

ON SALE: Le Creuset Fondue Set

Get all your fixin's ready, it's fondue night! Your family will love using this cute set for special nights. On sale for $200, down from $320. 

Le Creuset Heritage Pie Dish

Bust out your favorite pie recipe that will look perfect from oven to table in the Heritage Pie Dish. The dimpled edge will make the perfect fluting for your hand-rolled dough. 

Le Creuset Braiser

The Le Creuset enameled cast iron Braiser allows you to sear meats and then add liquid and the lid to create steam to lock in flavor and moisture. We love it for chilis and stews

—Kate Loweth

Images courtesy of Le Creuset. Prices were accurate at time of publication. 

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It’s dinner time and if you had to choose between ordering a pizza or cooking a healthy meal, a pizza probably sounds a whole lot easier. And while you know you need to prioritize the health of your family you are probably overwhelmed and need easy ideas—our life is complicated and enough and you have zero aspirations to become Martha Stewart.

If this is you, eating healthy can be way easier if you apply these simple meal hacks that make even the most inexperienced cooks look like a pro. Whether you don’t particularly have a flair or interest in cooking, don’t have the time, or just don’t have the money to get extravagant with your meals there are tips here that will positively impact your household. 

1. Pre-cooked Meat (Pre-cooked Grocery Store Rotisserie Chicken vs. Home-Cooked Oven Roasters)
Save time by opting for pre-cooked rotisserie chickens which can run as low as $4.99 at major grocery store chains. This saves time and provides a substantial part of a healthy lunch or dinner that is already cooked freeing your time and energy to focus on simple sides. 

2. Slow Cooking (Crock-Pot Meals vs. Skillet Meals)
While skillet st‌yle meals are a great way to whip up a healthy meal for one or two people, it can be far more efficient to prepare family-friendly meals in a slow cooker as it creates tender juicy meats without added oils and sugars. Recipes like cilantro lime chicken, chili, carnitas, curry, chicken tikka masala, soups, and so much more become one single step that you can set and forget!

3. Smoothies (Meal Replacer Shakes vs. Home-Cooked Sit-Down Breakfasts) 
When everyone is hungry and you are short on time, don’t underestimate protein smoothies for breakfast. Start with a base of a good quality protein supplement and blend it with almond or coconut milk, fresh low sugar fruit, leafy greens (optional), and a nut butter like almond or peanut butter. This approach will not only be delicious but will save time, money, and leave you with fewer dishes to wash!

4. Choose Fruit Wisely (Ready to Eat Fruit vs. Prep Intensive Fruit)
Fresh fruit is a great way to get fiber and nutrients for your family, however, you can save yourself a lot of time by choosing fruit more strategically. Things like whole apples and pears only need to be rinsed and can be consumed as-is. This also goes for bananas where the fruit can be eaten without prep work. Set a bowl of fresh ready-to-eat fruit in your kitchen for easily accessible snacks as opposed to tasking yourself with preparing more intensive fruit like cantaloupe, watermelon, or pineapple. 

5. Don’t Bother Peeling Produce
Sweet potatoes, potatoes, carrots, apples, and beets all roast up amazing with the skin on. The same goes for cucumbers, kiwi, eggplant, grapes, peaches, nectarines, ginger, acorn squash, and delicate squash. Leaving the skin includes more antioxidants and nutrients. Just make sure you rinse your produce first!

6. Egg Whites
Purchase cartons of liquid egg whites as opposed to whole eggs. For recipes that call for egg whites, you will experience fewer “steps” by pouring liquid egg whites as opposed to cracking several eggs, separating the yolks from the whites. This is great for egg white omelets 

7. Break Your Breakfast Routine
Don’t be afraid to have leftover “dinner food” for an easy microwavable breakfast. Breakfast doesn’t have to be “conventional.” I’ve grown up having rice and eggs or some other form of protein my entire life. There is no rule that says breakfast needs to be pancakes and cereal, it can be whatever you want it to be.

8. Order Chinese Take-Out
What? Takeout? Yes, when I’m in a bind, I will order a few servings of steamed chicken and mixed vegetables with white or brown rice. You can also get steamed shrimp and a variety of different veggies (all you have to do is ask and you can get broccoli). You can get this meal at ANY Chinese restaurant in America, just ask for the sauce on the side (I don’t use the sauce). I add a small amount of soy sauce or coconut aminos to flavor the food along with either sriracha or hot oil sauce. However, this has gotten me through rough spots where I had a lot of work and zero time to cook, but needed healthy food to keep me energized.

9. No-Chop Veggies
When selecting your veggies, some will be easier to meal prep than others required virtually no chopping or prepping before cooking.
▪ Spinach/Kale/Arugula: Can be easily steamed or sauteed with the carb of your choice (i.e. rice or sweet potatoes), can be added to wraps, salads, omelets, tacos, fajitas, and sandwiches. 
▪ String beans/Asparagus: Can be easily steamed, oven-roasted, or lightly sauteed.
▪ Peas/Snow Peas: An easy add-in to a stir-fry or skillet when simple veggies are needed to complete a meal.

10. Have a “Back-Up” Healthy Meal
Every household needs a go-to backup meal. For me, it’s veggie fried rice. I typically scramble in egg whites for my protein source and whatever veggies I have on hand. It tastes amazing and I literally always have the ingredients needed to pull it off at any point. It can get fancier depending on what type of meat you have on hand and it great for turning leftover rice, meat, eggs, and veggies into an amazing family-friendly dish.

Christine Hronec is an award-winning chemist and three-time champion fitness competitor, nutrition, and exercise expert. 

Calling all taco lovers! If your mini me loves whipping up play creations, then they’ll love this absolutely adorable Fill & Fold Taco and Tortilla Set from Melissa and Doug.

The taco-tastic kit comes with everything kiddos need to host their own Taco Tuesday. Use the skillet, knife and wooden spoon to cook up chicken, shrimp, beef, tomato, onion, avocado, pepper, shredded cheese, pinto beans and crema before topping off with hot sauce!

 

photo: Courtesy of Melissa & Doug

The set comes with a foldable tortilla, hard-shelled taco and menu cards so your chef can craft fajitas, burritos or tacos to order. The set is for kids three and older and even comes with a hinged container for easy storage.

You can find the Melissa & Doug Fill & Fold Taco and Tortilla Set for $18.26 on Amazon.

––Karly Wood

 

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