supper for picky eaters

10 Easy Supper for Picky Eaters That Kids Love

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As a busy parent, finding meals for picky eaters can be tough. It feels like a constant battle to get kids to eat certain foods. But, with the right recipes, mealtime can be enjoyable for everyone.

We’ve gathered 75 easy, kid-friendly meals that even the pickiest eaters will love. These recipes include quick casseroles and customizable one-pot dishes. They’re perfect for sneaking in veggies or serving up familiar favorites.

Understanding Picky Eating Habits and Food Aversions

Picky eating is a common problem for many parents. It shows up in different ways, like only eating certain foods. Kids might throw tantrums at mealtime or refuse to try new things.

Some kids don’t like certain tastes or textures. They might not like bitter or sour foods, or anything with “lumps.” Instead, they often stick to simple foods like french fries or grilled cheese.

Impact of Texture and Presentation on Food Acceptance

The way food looks and feels can really matter to picky eaters. Nutritionists say making mealtime fun is key. For example, smooth foods might be easier for them to accept than chunky ones.

Building Positive Mealtime Experiences

It’s important to make mealtime a positive time for picky eaters. Experts advise against pushing them to eat. Instead, introduce new foods slowly and let them explore at their own pace.

Understanding why kids are picky can help parents find ways to encourage them to try new foods. This can help build a healthier relationship with food.

Creamy Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese

Are you tired of the endless battle to get your little ones to eat their veggies? Look no further than this delightful Creamy Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese! This dish takes a classic kid-favorite and sneaks in a nutritious twist by blending pureed vegetables right into the creamy sauce. The result? A dinner that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

The secret to this recipe’s success lies in the carefully selected vegetable blend. We’ve incorporated cauliflower, sweet potato, and zucchini – all known for their ability to seamlessly integrate into the cheese sauce without altering the flavor. In fact, X% of parents reported that their children enjoyed the dish without even realizing it contained hidden vegetables.

But the benefits of this recipe don’t stop there. Not only does it provide a healthy dinner option, but it’s also remarkably easy to prepare. With a total time of just 30 minutes, this Creamy Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want to serve up a healthy dinner idea that your kids will love.

To make this dish, simply purée the vegetables until smooth, then fold them into a creamy cheese sauce made with cheddar cheese. The result is a rich, velvety mac and cheese that’s packed with essential vitamins and nutrients. Serve it up with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a complete and satisfying meal.

Don’t let picky eating habits hold you back from nourishing your family. Give this Creamy Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese a try, and watch as your little ones devour a healthy dinner without even realizing it’s good for them!

Nutrition Information

NutrientAmount per Serving% Daily Value
Calories516 kcal–
Total Fat23g35%
Saturated Fat13g81%
Cholesterol64mg21%
Sodium602mg26%
Potassium538mg15%
Carbohydrates58g19%
Fiber4g17%
Sugar8g9%
Protein20g40%
Vitamin A5196IU104%
Vitamin C25mg30%
Calcium379mg38%
Iron1mg6%

Ingredients

  • ½ cup cauliflower florets
  • ½ cup sweet potato (peeled and cubed)
  • ½ cup milk
  • ¾ cup grated yellow or white cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the cauliflower and sweet potato cubes and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
  3. Drain the vegetables and transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add the milk and blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the vegetable purée, cheddar cheese, salt, and garlic powder (if using) until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Pour the creamy hidden veggie sauce over cooked pasta and stir to combine.
  6. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and bubbly.
  7. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, healthy dinner idea that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!

Kid-Friendly Chicken Nuggets with Oat Crust

Finding recipes that picky eaters like can be tough for busy parents. But our homemade chicken nuggets with oat crust are a hit. They taste great and are full of good stuff for growing bodies.

Preparation Tips for Perfect Crispiness

To get the nuggets crispy, focus on the breading. Coat each piece of chicken well in the oat mix, pressing it on. Bake at 450°F for 17-20 minutes, until they hit 165°F inside.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Instructions

These nuggets are great for busy nights. You can make them ahead and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake, cool, and then freeze. Reheat at 400°F for 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again.

Dipping Sauce Variations

  • Classic Ketchup: A fan favorite for dipping, ketchup adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
  • Honey Mustard: Combine equal parts honey and mustard for a delightful balance of sweet and savory.
  • Ranch: Creamy ranch dressing complements the crunchy nuggets perfectly.
  • Barbecue Sauce: For a smoky-sweet dip, opt for a high-quality barbecue sauce.

These easy, kid-friendly chicken nuggets are a hit for meals. Serve them with your child’s favorite sides for a complete easy recipe and meal planning solution.

Easy One-Pot Pasta with Customizable Mix-ins

One-pot pasta dishes are a great choice for supper with picky eaters. You can add your child’s favorite ingredients, making it easy and fun to make.

The secret to this easy pasta is the creamy garlic noodles. It uses 4 tablespoons of butter for richness. And, 4-5 cloves of garlic add a strong flavor.

The sauce is made with about 28 ounces or just under four cups of chicken broth. Start with 2.5 cups of milk and add more if needed.

  • Add your child’s favorite veggies, like 4 cups of broccoli.
  • For extra protein, add two grilled and sliced chicken breasts.
  • Top it off with generous 2/3 cup of Parmesan cheese for creaminess.

The pasta cooks for 16-20 minutes. This ensures the noodles are just right. Add fresh herbs like basil for extra flavor.

This one-pot pasta is perfect because you can add so many things. From shrimp and sausage to veggies, it’s a hit with picky eaters. It’s a quick and tasty meal you can make together!

one-pot pasta

Supper for Picky Eaters: Mini Chicken Burgers

Mini chicken burgers are a great choice for parents dealing with picky eaters. They make chicken fun and appealing. Try different toppings and serving ideas to make mealtime exciting for kids.

Creative Topping Ideas

Make your mini chicken burgers more exciting with tasty toppings. Here are some ideas:

  • Melted cheddar cheese and barbecue sauce
  • Avocado, tomato, and ranch dressing
  • Grilled pineapple and teriyaki glaze
  • Sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese
  • Crispy bacon and honey mustard

Serving Suggestions for Different Ages

Change how you serve mini chicken burgers to suit different ages:

  1. Toddlers and Preschoolers: Use small buns or skewers for easy eating. Offer different sauces for fun.
  2. Elementary School-Age: Serve on regular buns and let kids pick their toppings. Include healthy options like lettuce and tomatoes.
  3. Tweens and Teens: Set up a “build-your-own” station. Let them choose toppings and sauces. Add sides like roasted veggies or sweet potato fries.

By tailoring mini chicken burgers to each age group, you can make them a hit with your picky eaters.

Cheesy Ravioli Bake with Simple Sauce

Looking for a meal that even the pickiest eaters will love? Try this Cheesy Ravioli Bake with a simple sauce. It’s a comforting casserole that’s easy to make and always a hit with families.

This recipe is a breeze to follow. It only takes 45 minutes to bake, so you can have a tasty, cheesy dish ready fast. Here’s how to make it:

  1. Begin with a 25 oz. package of frozen cheese ravioli.
  2. Make a simple sauce by mixing a 32 oz. jar of marinara sauce with 1 lb. of Italian sausage.
  3. Add 1 cup of cottage cheese, 1/4 cup of sour cream, and 1 softened 8 oz. package of cream cheese for a creamy sauce.
  4. Season the sauce with 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
  5. Top the ravioli with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/3 cup of grated parmesan for a cheesy topping.

You can make this Cheesy Ravioli Bake ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. It also freezes well, perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

“This Cheesy Ravioli Bake is a game-changer for picky eaters! The combination of creamy sauce, melted cheese, and familiar ravioli flavors is a surefire hit with the whole family.”

This kid-friendly meal is a must-try for families. It’s easy to make, customizable, and convenient to prepare ahead. Enjoy this comforting and crowd-pleasing Cheesy Ravioli Bake with your loved ones tonight!

Slow Cooker Hidden Vegetable Sauce

Make your dinners healthier with this slow cooker sauce. It’s filled with 10 different veggies. This sauce is great for pasta, casseroles, and more. It’s easy to make and full of vitamins and fiber.

Vegetable Combinations That Work Best

The recipe uses passata, water, vegetable stock pots, and dried oregano. Cook it for 1 hour on high, then 3 hours more. Use a hand blender to make it smooth. You can also add more herbs and spices to taste.

Storage and Freezing Tips

This sauce is easy to store. Keep it in the fridge for 3 days or freeze it for months. Just thaw it in the fridge or reheat it when you need it. It’s perfect for meal prep.

Frozen veggies are great for this recipe. They’re affordable and keep nutrients and flavors. They also save time and reduce waste.

This sauce is not only healthy but also good for people with diabetes. It has low glycemic index ingredients. It’s a great choice for meal planning, making healthy meals easy and enjoyable for everyone.

Quick and Easy Taco-Inspired Meals

Taco night is now more exciting! Introduce your picky eaters to flavor combinations with these quick meals. These dishes are perfect supper for picky eaters because they offer new takes on tacos.

The Tex-Mex Pasta Bake is a favorite. It mixes taco fillings like ground beef, beans, and cheese with pasta. It’s a hearty meal that’s ready in just 13 minutes and feeds four.

  1. Start by cooking 1 pound of small pasta according to the package instructions.
  2. While the pasta is boiling, sauté 1 pound of lean ground beef in a skillet until no longer pink.
  3. Add 1 can of black or pinto beans, 2 cups of frozen corn, and your favorite taco seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Drain the cooked pasta and toss it with the beef and bean mixture. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

For fun, serve the Tex-Mex Pasta Bake with toppings like chopped tomatoes and sour cream. Let everyone add their favorite toppings!

taco-inspired meal

The Taco Salad Bar is another quick meal. Create a taco salad station with tortilla chips, lettuce, and more. This meal lets everyone make their own perfect taco salad.

These taco-inspired meals are a hit with families. They offer familiar flavors with new twists. Get ready for happy faces and clean plates!

Kid-Approved Loaded Baked Potato Bar

Turn a simple baked potato into a fun meal with a loaded baked potato bar. Kids can pick their toppings, making mealtime interactive. The potato base is perfect for trying new flavors and textures.

Bake potatoes using your favorite method, like the oven or microwave. Then, set up a topping bar with classic and adventurous options. Offer butter, sour cream, and cheese, plus chili, pico de gallo, or chicken.

Let kids create their own potato masterpiece. This makes mealtime exciting and helps them learn about food. A loaded baked potato bar is a hit with both kids and adults, offering a nutritious and tasty supper.

FAQ

What are some easy supper options for picky eaters that kids will love?

Find 10 easy supper options that kids will love. These meals are simple, quick, and appealing. They include creamy hidden veggie mac and cheese, kid-friendly chicken nuggets, and easy one-pot pasta. You’ll also find mini chicken burgers, cheesy ravioli bake, and more.

Why do children develop picky eating habits and food aversions?

Discover why kids might be picky eaters. Learn about common triggers and how texture and presentation matter. Also, find ways to make mealtime positive and introduce new foods.

How can I make a creamy mac and cheese with hidden vegetables?

Make a creamy mac and cheese with hidden veggies. It’s a favorite for kids and adds nutrition. You can choose veggies based on your child’s taste and needs.

What are the tips for making homemade chicken nuggets that are crispy and kid-friendly?

Learn to make homemade chicken nuggets with an oat crust. Get tips for crispiness and how to store them. Also, find fun dipping sauces to keep meals exciting.

How can I make a one-pot pasta dish that is customizable for picky eaters?

Make a one-pot pasta that you can customize. Swap ingredients like ham for bacon or chicken. Change veggies to fit your child’s taste. It’s a quick and adaptable meal for busy nights.

What are some creative ideas for mini chicken burgers that appeal to picky eaters?

Mini chicken burgers are fun for picky eaters. Find creative toppings and serving ideas for different ages. Make mealtime exciting and engaging for kids.

How can I make a simple and comforting cheesy ravioli bake that picky eaters will enjoy?

Make a cheesy ravioli bake that’s comforting and appealing. It has a simple sauce and is quick to assemble. It’s perfect for busy families and combines familiar flavors in a casserole.

What are the best vegetable combinations for a hidden vegetable sauce in the slow cooker?

Use ten hidden veggies in a slow cooker sauce. Learn about good veggie combinations and get tips for storage and freezing. It’s a nutritious base for meals and easy to prepare.

What are some quick and easy taco-inspired meals that picky eaters will enjoy?

Try taco-inspired meals that are quick and appealing. These dishes offer familiar flavors in new ways. They encourage kids to try new ingredients while keeping things comfortable.

How can I create a fun and interactive loaded baked potato bar for picky eaters?

Create a fun meal with a loaded baked potato bar. It’s customizable, so kids can choose toppings. The potato base is familiar, making it easy to introduce new flavors and textures.