Transform Dinnertime Struggles Into Happy Meals With These 17 Kid-Approved Recipes

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Transform Dinnertime Struggles Into Happy Meals With These 17 Kid-Approved Recipes

Everyone knows that when kids are happy with their meals, the whole home feels brighter. That’s why these 17 recipes have been put together: to smooth out the rough edges of dinner planning and bring smiles to the table. It’s a simple fix to a common problem, offering a way to end each day on a positive note.

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who doesn’t love a twist on a classic favorite? Pizza Rolls bring together the ease of snacking with the all-time favorite flavors of pizza in a fun, bite-sized form. Kids and adults alike find these irresistible for their crunchy outside and gooey, delicious inside, making dinner a playful yet satisfying affair.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine transforming the humble potato into something that gets everyone at the table excited. Hashbrown Casserole does exactly that, combining comfort with the joy of a cheesy, crispy topping that’s hard to resist. It’s a side dish that often steals the spotlight, ensuring plates are clean and smiles are plenty.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A slice of pecan pie being served on a cake slice.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Combining the rich, sweet flavors of a classic dessert with a creamy twist, Pecan Pie Cheesecake offers an indulgent finish to any meal. It’s a testament to how two favorites can come together to create something even more spectacular. This dessert promises to be a memorable treat that beckons for just one more slice.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Southern Mash

Mashed potatoes on a white plate.
Southern Mash. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dive deep into the heart of comfort food with a side that’s all about creamy texture and soul-warming taste. Southern Mash brings a new level of delicious to the table with its smooth consistency and buttery flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes any meal feel like a special occasion, standing as a testament to simple ingredients making something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

A lasagna being dished up.
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bringing a hearty vegetable into the realm of comfort food, Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna layers flavors in a way that makes greens not just tolerable but truly enjoyable. It’s a dish that elegantly hides the goodness of vegetables within creamy cheese and pasta. Families find this meal a perfect way to introduce more leafy greens into their routine without a fight.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Mashed Potato Fritters

A stack of mashed potato fritters.
Mashed Potato Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes, it’s the simplest ideas that have the biggest impact. Mashed Potato Fritters turn leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, golden treat that’s hard to stop eating. Perfect for dipping or just as they are, they offer a delightful way to repurpose and enjoy in a whole new form.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Fritters

Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet Potato Cubes introduce a sweet, nutritious twist to the dinner plate, roasted to perfection with a caramelized outside and tender inside. They’re a simple yet powerful way to add a pop of color and nutrition to your meal. Ideal for encouraging more vegetable intake, these cubes are a surefire hit with kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes

Lemon Pie

A slice of lemon pie sits on a plate next to a pie with a slice removed.
Lemon Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s something about the zesty freshness of Lemon Pie that can brighten up any meal. With its light, citrusy filling and flaky crust, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart. This dessert stands as a refreshing finale that cleanses the palate and satisfies the sweet tooth in a way few other treats can.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pie

Vegetable Fritters

Vegetable fritters in a stack.
Vegetable Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those looking to sneak more veggies into the family diet without a fuss, Vegetable Fritters are a brilliant move. Packed with an assortment of vegetables and fried to a delightful crisp, they’re a fun and enticing way to enjoy the benefits of a variety of veggies. Plus, their dip-friendly nature makes them a playful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

A slice of Reese's pie sits on a cake slice, ready to be served.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For peanut butter lovers, Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie is nothing short of a dream come true. It marries the beloved flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a lush, creamy pie format that’s utterly irresistible. This dessert is a celebration in every bite, proving that some flavor combinations are just meant to be.
Get the Recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

Hash Browns

Hash Browns on a white plate with an egg and avocado.
Hash Browns. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, Hash Browns have a way of making breakfast or any meal significantly better. They’re the perfect partner to eggs but stand strong on their own or as a base for more adventurous toppings. This dish is a testament to how a few simple tweaks can make an everyday ingredient shine.
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns

Breakfast Potatoes

Breakfast potatoes with parsley on a wooden cutting board.
Breakfast Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Starting the day with something filling and flavorful like Breakfast Potatoes means setting the tone for a day of satisfied appetites. These potatoes are seasoned and roasted to create a comforting, crispy side that’s hard to resist. Perfect for lazy weekends or to spruce up a weekday breakfast, they bring warmth and joy to the morning routine.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Potatoes

French Toast Casserole

A person taking a portion of French toast casserole.
French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bringing together the beloved flavor of French toast with the ease of a casserole, this dish is a morning game-changer. French Toast Casserole eliminates the morning rush, allowing for a leisurely and delicious start to the day. It’s ideal for gatherings or when you want to treat the family to something special without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: French Toast Casserole

Easy Flatbread Pizza

Two slices of pizza with tomatoes and herbs.
Easy Flatbread Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Calling all pizza enthusiasts for a quick, customizable meal that brings endless fun to dinner time. Easy Flatbread Pizza allows for individual creativity, letting everyone design their masterpiece with their favorite toppings. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to bring everyone together, nurturing both creativity and appetites.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread Pizza

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Baked to perfection with a hint of crispiness, Sweet Potato Fries are a delightful alternative to the traditional side dish. Besides their enticing flavor, they offer a burst of nutrition that makes them a guilt-free addition to any meal. Their natural sweetness is a hit among all ages, making them a popular choice for family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who said quick meals can’t be filling and nutritious? The 25-Minute Black Bean Burger packs a punch with its rich flavor and satisfying texture, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a meatless option. It’s a testament to how fast, wholesome meals can easily become part of the weekly dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Lemon Cookies

A stack of lemon cookies on a cooling rack.
Lemon Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ending a meal on a sweet note doesn’t get much better than with Lemon Cookies. Their light, refreshing taste makes them a favorite for both kids and adults, proving that dessert doesn’t have to be heavy to be enjoyable. These cookies are perfect for those looking for a subtly sweet treat that pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies

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