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If your little one is a picky eater, you are probably in a meal prep slump. I know the feeling because I’ve totally been there. Don’t worry though, these kid friendly meals for picky eaters will bring back excitement during mealtimes and snack time.
My daughter was a picky eater for a short time (that felt like an eternity). It drove me up a wall. It was incredibly frustrating to prepare something I was super excited to feed her all for her to refuse to eat it.
While I believe in offering kids choices, my kitchen is not a restaurant. I want my kids to try new things and enjoy more foods than they dislike.
Like you, I was constantly searching for healthy kid friendly recipes that would actually entice my daughter to eat. I am assuming that’s what brought you here.
I’ve learned that I need to keep eating interesting by preparing a variety of food. Doing this helps my daughter look forward to eating.
So I wrote this post for all the other frustrated parents of picky eaters. I am sure your kids will love these meals as much as we do!
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Yummy Kid Friendly Meals for Picky Eaters
Breakfast Kid Friendly Meals for Picky Eaters
1. Chilaquiles Rojos
Chilaquiles rojos, a traditional Mexican breakfast, is an excellent option for your picky eater. It is made of tortilla chips, salsa, queso fresco, and Mexican crema.
Throw a fried egg and avocado on top and you’re good to go! Anything involving avocado makes my daughter’s ears perk up.
You can easily adjust the spice level. This recipe is not spicy, but if YOU like a little spice, you can increase the chiles. Everyone in our house has a different preference, so we appreciate when we can easily modify a dish.
2. Vegan Cinnamon Pop Tarts
Here’s a childhood throwback. I LOVED pop tarts as a kid, especially the cinnamon ones. I still do love them, but avoid buying them since they’re loaded with crap.
HOWEVER, these homemade cinnamon pop tarts are gluten-free, simple to make, and do not include artificial flavors.
So if you’re searching for a yummy breakfast that is made of wholesome ingredients, you should make your kids’ day with these pop tarts.
3. Savory Oatmeal
There are many ways to prepare oatmeal, and this savory oatmeal is delicious. This breakfast can be made in just 10 minutes, so it is a go-to for busy mornings.
You’ll appreciate that this oatmeal is a wonderful way to sneak in some veggies. Mastering how to sneak in veggies is essential when it comes to serving picky eaters.
4. Overnight Breakfast Casserole
There are so many things to appreciate about this overnight breakfast casserole. My favorite part is that you can prepare it the night before and not worry about cooking first thing in the morning. I LIVE for meals like this.
Your picky eater will also adore this breakfast. After all, Italian bread is hard to turn down. Cheese and breakfast sausage are equally as irresistible!
5. Super Easy Mini Banana Pancake Bites
These mini banana pancake bites are seriously addicting.
We buy so many bananas each week, so having a recipe where I can use ripe bananas is super helpful.
I have a feeling your picky toddler will request these for breakfast frequently!
6. Sweedish Pancakes
Wow your kids with these Swedish pancakes. They are soft, they’re buttery, and they will go down quickly. You won’t have to encourage your child to gobble these up.
We have a lot of fun trying different variations of our favorite foods. Pancakes, waffles, pizza, the list goes on.
Don’t skip the whipped cream. We also love eating our Swedish pancakes with berries. Decorate the top or enjoy them on the side.
7. Easy Fluffy Pancakes
These easy fluffy pancakes will be a breakfast hit with your entire family. Say goodbye to your boxed mix because you no longer need it.
My family prefers making homemade pancakes. After trying this recipe, I am pretty sure your family will be on the same page.
They are also super simple to make.
You can also freeze them and serve them on busy mornings. Always think ahead!
8. Air Fryer Falafel
These air fryer falafels are such a fun breakfast idea. They are made of chickpeas. Plus other fun healthy ingredients!
Serve these as is, over salad, inside a pita, dip it in hummus or tzatziki, or over rice. Whatever speaks to your little one!
Lunch & Dinner Kid Friendly Meals for Picky Eaters
9. Silly Chilli
This silly chili is one of our favorite easy kid friendly dinner recipes. You probably already have these ingredients on hand.
Not only will you save money since this recipe does not require a lot of ingredients, but it is also easy to customize. Slice up some hot dogs or throw in some ground beef. Either way, it tastes delish!
10. Cheeseburger Dumplings
Cheeseburgers and dumplings are favorite foods among toddlers. So these cheeseburger dumplings are perfect for picky eaters.
You can air fry them or cook them in a pan.
11. Dino Pork Bolognese
To whip up this dish you’ll need pork sausage, tomatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, and oregano over adorable dino shaped pasta. This quick and easy dino pork bolognese is calling your little one’s name.
This is such a great way to make pasta more fun.
We love making a big batch and saving the rest for leftovers the following night. Take my advice and make your week easier!
12. Roasted Pumpkin Pasta
Does your little one love pumpkin as much as mine does? This roasted pumpkin pasta will make your kids want to lick the bowl clean.
If you’re looking for meals that include hidden vegetables, you’ll love this pumpkin sauce. We can’t get enough of this creamy sauce so I highly recommend that you make extra!
13. Pasta with Hidden Vegetable Sauce
And since we’re talking about meals with hidden vegetables, this pasta with hidden vegetable sauce is another fantastic dish you have to cook for your family!
Your child won’t realize they’re eating carrots, zucchini, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
14. Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes
I’m pretty sure your kids will shovel these garlic bread sloppy joes.
This is such a fun spin on the sloppy joes we all know and love. Chef’s kiss!
15. Bubble Up Pizza Casserole
Step up your Friday pizza night game with this pizza casserole. If you’re like me and like to take some nights off from cooking, you can make this ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat dinner.
I don’t know about you, but by the end of the week I just want to make easy dinners.
This is the perfect meal whether you’re cooking for your family or guests. Easily customize it with your favorite toppings.
16. Easy Hidden Veggies Pasta Sauce
With picky eaters on your hands, you NEED hidden veggie sauce recipes.
This easy hidden veggies pasta sauce is too good to pass up. It is sweet, creamy, and a breeze to make.
Cucumber sticks make the perfect side. My toddler looks forward to dipping her cucumber sticks in the sauce.
17. Pasta with Bacon and Brussel Sprouts
Bacon and brussels are the best duo. This power couple will make it hard for your picky eater to turn down this meal. Plus, pasta is always an exciting food for picky eaters. Am I right?
You will quickly discover that this pasta with bacon and brussel sprouts is full of flavor. You will definitely want to work this one into your meal rotation!
18. Hidden Veggie Lasagna Roll Ups
Here’s another excellent recipe that includes a hidden veggie pasta sauce. You can count on your kids getting extra fiber and extra nutrients. This secret sauce includes 6 veggies!
Since these are roll ups, they’re pre-proportioned into individual servings. This makes serving and meal prepping much easier.
Another plus is that these hidden veggie lasagna roll ups cook faster than traditional lasagna.
19. Chicken Stuffed Shells with Alfredo Sauce
This is such a crowd pleaser. Cheesy stuffed shells, chicken, and creamy alfredo sauce. Your picky eaters won’t say no to these stuffed shells with chicken and Alfredo sauce. No way.
If your kids are fans of fettucini alfredo or stuffed shells, this will be a win!
20. Copycat PF Chang Mongolian Beef
Don’t you just love a good copycat recipe? Whenever we go out to eat (which is rare nowadays) I imagine how to recreate it at home. Then again when we get the bill. Quite honestly making food at home is always better and cheaper.
Stay home and make this copycat PF Chang Mongolian beef recipe.
Speaking from experience, this won’t just make your picky eater happy!
21. Sweet and Spicy Spaghetti Sauce with Creamy Cannellini Beans
Ditch store-bought sauce and make this sweet and spicy spaghetti sauce with creamy cannellini beans. It is full of flavor, and nutrients, and can be made in 30 minutes.
The red pepper flakes give it a little spice, but you can add more or less.
22. Nourishing Stacciatella Soup
This nourishing stacciatella soup, also known as Italian egg drop soup, is phenomenal.
I don’t know what will be more exciting for your picky eater, the tortellini, the pecorino or parmesan cheese, or the fact that it is soup. Anytime we make soup, my daughter is always very eager to try it.
This hearty soup is perfect for a cold night!
23. Easy Vegan Nachos
Let me just tell you- these easy vegan nachos are insanely yummy.
This recipe calls for homemade vegan cheese sauce, vegan chorizo, beans, olives, crispy chips, and other tasty ingredients. We are not vegan but from time to time we like to try vegan recipes.
You’ve got to try this one!
24. Chicken Escalope
If you’re wondering what chicken escalope is, it’s a popular food in the Middle East and Asia. It’s chicken breasts that have been battered and fried. Thinner than chicken tenders.
Pair it with french fries and your picky eater will be a happy camper.
25. The Best Chicken Soup
This noodle-free chicken soup is amazing. It’s loaded with veggies and you can feel free to add even more. I personally love adding kale to this soup.
It is cooked with bone-in chicken thighs, and my little one can’t get enough of it. I am sure your picky eater will love it just as much.
26. Easy Meatball Casserole
You won’t have to do any convincing here! Casseroles are popular in our house. This meatball casserole is a family favorite. Who doesn’t love meatballs?
27. Ravioli Lasagna
Who can resist cheesy ravioli? Layer the homemade meat sauce, ravioli, ricotta mixture, mozzarella and parmesan.
This easy ravioli lasagna will have your whole family running to the dinner table. It feels like you’re eating lasagna, but it takes much less time to prepare! Lazy lasagna is the way to go.
28. Skillet Sweet and Sour Meatballs
This is another fantastic meal for the meatball lovers! Imagine juicy meatballs in a homemade tangy sauce.
It is a one-skillet meal so you know what that means-less of a cleanup! This skillet sweet and sour meatball dish is a must-try!
29. Veggie Tots
These veggie tots are a delicious snack your kids will love. Unlike traditional tater tots, these are healthy. The only ingredients required are cauliflower, broccoli, almond flour, egg, cheese, salt, and pepper. Easy peasy!
30. Easy Salmon Fish Fingers
If you’re looking for simple meals for picky eaters, you’ll love these salmon fish fingers! These crispy salmon fish fingers will probably become a regular dinner for your family. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
31. Gluten Free Fried Chicken
If your kids love KFC fried chicken (who doesn’t?), this gluten free fried chicken tastes just like it. You wouldn’t know it’s gluten free.
Juicy chicken coated in crispy breading is the perfect weekend dinner. You don’t have to feel guilty about serving your family fried chicken because it is healthier than the fried chicken you’d order out.
32. Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
These gluten free chicken tenders are picky eaters’ dream. What’s not to love? Crispy, juicy, and they pair well with so many different foods. Serve fries or green beans on the side. Throw it over salad or in a wrap.
We like to prep a bunch and use them in a variety of different meals over the course of the next few days. Work smarter not harder.
33. Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Everyone loves chicken nuggets. Fried, grilled, air fried. Yum, yum, yum.
These air fryer chicken nuggets are worth knowing about! Minimal prep is required, so you’ll love that.
34. Sweet and Sour Chicken
The tangy and sweet sauce will have your littles asking for seconds. This sweet and sour chicken recipe is super simple and nutritious.
FYI: Substituting the chicken for shrimp is just as tasty!
35. Turkey Bolognese
Having turkey recipes on hand is everything. They will most definitely come in handy after Thanksgiving.
If you’re searching for recipes kids can make, this turkey bolognese is perfect. I always recruit my daughter to help me cook pasta dishes.
36. Mummy Pizzas
Make these adorable mummy pizzas in 15 minutes. These are a fabulous treat to make with your little one for Halloween.
Enjoy these fun English muffin pizzas as a meal or for a snack. The best part about making your own pizza is that you can use whatever toppings you want.
You only need English muffins, pizza sauce, string cheese, and sliced olives.
37. Instant Pot Spaghetti Bolognese
I love anything that can be made in the Instant Pot. This Instant Pot spaghetti bolognese is easy to make and full of flavor.
We like adding additional veggies to the pot like celery and carrots. Oh and don’t forget to top it with fresh basil! It makes a difference.
38. Chicken Fried Rice
Looking for a healthy and simple meal to make for busy nights? This chicken fried rice is just the ticket.
You can use chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. We use chicken thighs because it adds more flavor.
We love this recipe because it is a great way to use leftovers. Somehow I always manage to make extra rice. So it is nice to have a recipe that welcomes using leftover rice.
39. Baked Spaghetti Carbonera
Italian dishes go over great with picky eaters and everyone else too! So give this baked spaghetti carbonara a try.
This Italian carbonara is made a little differently. It is baked in the oven and my whole family is obsessed with this meal.
40. Oven-Baked Potato Cheese Balls
Ever wonder what to do with leftover mashed potatoes? Mix them with egg, mozzarella, salt, thyme, and roll them in bread crumbs to make these oven-baked potato cheese balls!
They’re soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. Trust me when I say your whole family will thank you for it!
41. Tagliolini Au Gratin with Ham and Cream
Ham and cheese in pasta will make your picky eater very happy! In case you don’t know, tagliolini is a type of long and thin pasta.
It is kind of like spaghetti, but looks like long thin ribbons. I am sure this tagliolini au gratin with ham and cream will be in high demand in your house!
42. Tortellini with Ham and Peas
Peas, please! This creamy pasta dish is to die for. Tortellini is magical. It is delicious and does not require much time to cook.
Some of our favorite dinner recipes include tortellini, including this one! Your picky eater will without a doubt gobble up this tortellini with ham and peas.
43. Turkey and Cheese Crescent Rolls with Honey Mustard
Here is another one of the best kid friendly meals for picky eaters. Hello turkey and cheese crescent rolls with honey mustard!
These buttery rolls are the best buns for sandwiches. Ready to eat in just 15 minutes.
Pro tip: always keep crescent rolls in your fridge. They make sandwiches more fun for kids! Plus they’re loved by everyone.
44. Dutch Oven Pulled Chicken
Have you ever cooked chicken in the Dutch oven? It will help keep your meat from overcooking or drying out. Put your Dutch oven to the taste test with this pulled chicken recipe.
You may have already introduced pulled pork to your little ones, but this pulled chicken will become your go-to meal.
It is simple to make and super versatile. Stuff it in sandwiches, rolls, taco shells, salad, or top it over rice.
45. Egg Roll in a Bowl
Before I began searching for kid friendly meals for picky eaters, we made egg roll in a bowl on repeat. It is that good.
One pan meals are the best. We usually eat this as is, but you could totally throw it over rice. You will feel so good serving your family this healthy meal.
46. Chili Mac
I could not leave chili mac off this list. You can make it in a jiffy. This recipe is gluten-free. If you’re looking for dairy-free recipes, there is a way to make this without the dairy as well!
47. Ground Beef Curry
As a mama of a toddler, I like to prepare meals that are packed with healthy ingredients since my daughter normally likes to pick and deconstruct what is on her plate.
I have to say this ground beef curry is a wonderful choice for your picky eater!
48. Healthy Homemade Hamburger Helper
This healthy hamburger helper is dairy-free, gluten-free, and WAY better than the boxed mix. You can also make this in the slow cooker! Don’t you love a set it and forget it recipe?
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