We all know being a parent is hard. Between work and running around, we rarely have time to cook meals for our family and when we do, our kids complain that it's gross, then beg for pizza. The last thing we want to do is eat pizza and fish sticks every night. Instead, try these 15 kid (and adult) friendly meals that are quick and easy to make.
Chili-Cheese Mac
Not only will your kids love this hearty meal, but you will too. Filled with meat, noodles and cheese, it's hard not to love this dish. You don't need to sacrifice flavor for time either, because this dish only takes about 20 minutes to make. Find the full recipe here.
Baked Mozzarella Bites
We all know the first thing our kids do when they get home from school is scrounge through the kitchen for something to eat. No matter how much you pack for lunch, they're always hungry. Instead of the typical fried cheese sticks, try this baked version. They have the same crunch and gooeyness your kids love, but with fewer calories. Find the recipe here.
Sloppy Joe Sliders
Sloppy Joes are another one of those meals kids just seem to love. This meal just got a whole lot better though with these pint-sized sliders. Your kids will love being able to have more than one sloppy joe and all you have to worry about is the clean up. Find the recipe here.
Chocolate-Granola Apple Wedges
When your kids want something sweet, try this dessert variation. The apples make a healthy substitution for pretzel rods or graham crackers, the chocolate fixes that sweet craving and the granola adds a healthy crunch. Your kids will love snacking on these during movie night. Find the recipe here.
Chip-Crusted Fish Fillets
If your kids love fish sticks, try these fish fillets. They're coated with salt and vinegar chips for a flavorful crunch without all the frying. All you have to do for these crispy fillets is brush on mayo, coat in the chips and bake in the oven at 375 for 10 minutes. You'll have a seafood dinner in no time. Find the full recipe here.
Chicken And Waffle Sandwiches
These sandwiches are a fun meal your kids will love and it's easy for you to make. It's a twist on the classic Southern favorite, chicken and waffles. Bacon, deli chicken slices, tomato and seasoned mayo are stacked high between two frozen waffles. This combo sounds delicious! Find the full recipe here.
Spaghetti With Turkey Meatballs
This dish is lightened up for a healthier version of your kids' favorite pasta dish. Made with ground turkey, your kids won't know the difference between the two because they taste that good. You and your kiddos will definitely agree this dish is a favorite. Find the recipe here.
Ham And Swiss Egg Sandwiches
These breakfast sandwiches are a great substitute for stopping at McDonald's every morning. They're kid approved and taste even better than the greasy breakfast McDonald's offers. These on-the-go sandwiches will also help your kids get moving out the door in the morning. Find the recipe here.
Banana Chocolate French Toast
Breakfast for dinner is always a fan favorite among kids. And they'll especially love this banana and chocolate infused french toast. Plus you won't mind this sweet, flavor-filled meal either. Find the full recipe here.
Chicken And Bean Burritos
Spice up typical taco night with this chicken and bean filling. You can use this filling for burritos, tacos, nachos or just about any Mexican favorite. You can even add a little hot sauce and jalapenos to the grown-up burritos. Find the full recipe here.
Cheesy Chicken Bagel Pizzas
We all know pizza is a kid favorite, but sometimes ordering out all the time just gets old. Instead, make your kids a bagel pizza. The bagel is a great substitute for regular pizza crust and your kids will love having their own individual pizza. This recipe uses chicken and cheese, but the topping possibilities are endless. Find the full recipe here.
Popcorn Balls
How fun is this dessert?! Mixed with popcorn, peanuts, pretzels, marshmallows and honey nut cereal, these balls are the perfect combination of salty and sweet. Your kids will love snacking on these after school or at night while doing their homework. Find the full recipe here.
Chicken With Pepperoni-Marinara Sauce
Your kids will no longer complain about boring chicken after trying this chicken dish. Chicken cutlets are surrounded by a heaping amount of marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese and pepperoni for a flavorful, kid-friendly meal. This Italian-inspired dish is delicious! Find the recipe here.
Barbecue Turkey Meatballs
These meatballs are made with ground turkey for a healthier take on the classic version we love. They will quickly become a family favorite. Serve with simple mashed potatoes and a vegetable of choice for a full meal in no time. Find the recipe here.
No Bake Chewy Granola Bars
These bars are perfect to pack in your kids' lunches or for a snack when they get home from school. Plus, they is no need to bake them! From hearty oats to savory peanut butter, these no bake bars are packed with flavor and nutrients. Find the recipe here.
