Finding meals that kids love and get excited about can sometimes feel like a tricky puzzle, but it doesn’t have to be. These 17 recipes are a treasure trove of fun and easy ideas that promise to bring smiles to the dinner table. From creative twists on classic favorites to new and exciting dishes, there’s something here to spark joy in every young diner.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake
If you’re after a twist on a classic that brings both texture and flavor, look no further. Imagine your favorite nutty notes fused with creamy layers, offering a blend of crunch and smoothness in every bite. It’s a favorite that combines the best of two worlds into one dish, perfect for those special family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Hashbrown Casserole
Wake up to a comforting and hearty option that makes breakfast the highlight of the day. It’s packed with layers that create a symphony of comfort in one scoop. This casserole is a crowd-pleaser and serves as a spectacular side or a main brunch feature.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna
Here’s a vibrant alternative that brings greens center stage, without compromising on that beloved hearty feel. Layers upon layers, each slice is a celebration of rich textures and homely flavors. Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna pair well with a side salad for those nights when you need a fulfilling meal with a fresh touch.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna
Corn Casserole
Think of it as a bridge between side dishes and comfort food that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Its creamy base meets a golden crust, making it a simple yet irresistible addition to any meal. Corn Casserole is the unsung hero of potlucks and family dinners alike.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole
Tortilla Pizza
Need a quick fix that’s bound to win over any crowd with its crispy edge and customizable toppings? Bingo. With a fun, crispy base, Tortilla Pizza transforms a simple concept into an express route to flavor town.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza
25 Minute Black Bean Burger
For those who love a good burger but are looking for a wholesome twist, you’ve got it here. It’s a mouthwatering option for all, regardless of dietary preferences, and comes together quicker than most traditional burgers. 25 Minute Black Bean Burger checks all boxes for a fun and filling weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger
Mississippi Mud Pie
When dessert calls for indulgence with a capital ‘I’, this is your answer. It’s like bringing the deep and indulgent flavors of the South straight to your table in a dessert form. Mississippi Mud Pie is a show-stopping finale to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie
Pizza Salad
When pizza night and salad bar meet, expect a fusion that’s nothing short of exciting. It’s full of texture and a burst of fresh flavors, offering a lighter take while still hitting all the right notes. Pizza Salad is for those days when making a choice between two favorites just seems impossible.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad
Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl
Perfect for those moments when you crave the bold flavors of a Tex-Mex staple but want the comfort of home cooking. It’s customizable to suit everyone’s tastes and a surefire win for meal prep. Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl is your ticket to a hearty and wholesome meal without leaving your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl
Veggie Pizza
Who says pizza can’t be a canvas for the vibrant colors and nutrients of vegetables? Loaded with variety, every slice is not just a treat for the eyes but also a feast. Veggie Pizza brings a slice of healthful indulgence to your casual dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza
Southern Mash
No table is complete without this comfort staple that brings smoothness and warmth to every forkful. Ideal as a trusty companion to almost any dish, it’s simplicity done right. Southern Mash invites everyone to enjoy a taste of homely perfection.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash
Mashed Potato Fritters
Transform a beloved classic into something with a bit more bite, adding a crispy layer to the velvety smoothness we all know and love. They’re perfect for converting leftover mash into a tasty treat. Mashed Potato Fritters tie in nostalgia with a pleasant twist.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Fritters
Sweet Potato Cubes
Switch things up with a side that’s as nutritious as it is vibrant. Each cube offers a slight caramelization on the outside, soft on the inside, and is a surefire way to add a pop of color to your plate. Sweet Potato Cubes invite a sweet change to your meal routine.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes
Vegetable Fritters
Bid farewell to mealtimes met with groans at the sight of vegetables; these are about to change the game. With a golden crust and tender center, they are a delightful way to get that veggie intake. Vegetable Fritters bring a playful edge to the humble produce.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters
Lemon Pie
Freshen up the end of your meal with a dessert that brings a bright and tangy kick. It’s like sunshine on a plate, inviting a light yet punchy finish to any dining experience. Lemon Pie is the zingy twist you need to shake up the dessert routine.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pie
Pizza Rolls
Put a fun spin on a family favorite by serving it up bite-sized, perfect for small hands and big appetites alike. They are a hit at parties or as a surprisingly simple snack. Pizza Rolls are everything you love about pizza in a grab-and-go form.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls
Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie
It’s the indulgence for those who believe peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in heaven. Rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible, it makes for a decadent dessert. Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie is where every bite is a mini celebration.
Get the Recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie