Getting your kids to eat healthy can be a challenge, but it’s crucial for their development and well-being. As parents, we want to provide our children with the nutrients they need to grow strong and thrive. One way to do this is by serving them delicious and nutritious meals and snacks that are both fun and easy to make.
In this article, we’ll share 20 healthy recipes for kids that are not only yummy but also packed with nutrients. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to sweet treats like banana pancakes, these recipes are sure to be a hit with your little ones. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make, even on busy weeknights.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our collection of 20 delicious healthy recipes for kids that are easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a satisfying dinner solution, we’ve got you covered.
Veggie-Packed Mac and Cheese
Veggie-Packed Mac and Cheese: A creamy, comforting twist on a classic favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
8. Combine cooked macaroni, vegetable mixture, and cheese sauce; transfer to a baking dish.
9. Top with additional grated cheese (if desired) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Banana Oatmeal Pancakes
These fluffy pancakes combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, the wholesome goodness of rolled oats, and the comfort of a warm breakfast. Perfect for a quick morning meal or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Optional: chopped walnuts or honey for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bananas, oats, flour, sugar, and eggs. Blend until smooth.
2. Add milk, melted butter, and baking powder. Mix until combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 pancakes (approx. 20-25 minutes)
Mini Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas
Mini Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas: A bite-sized twist on a classic favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8-10 mini tortillas (about 6 inches in diameter)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced cooked turkey breast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheese and diced turkey breast.
3. Place a mini tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 teaspoon of the cheese-turkey mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of quesadillas being cooked at once)
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines roasted sweet potatoes and black beans with a hint of lime and cilantro. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the black beans over medium-high heat. Add a squeeze of lime juice and stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning roasted sweet potatoes and black beans onto tortillas. Top with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes
A comforting twist on traditional baked potatoes, this recipe combines the earthiness of broccoli with the richness of melted cheese for a satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the potatoes are baking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix together the cooked broccoli, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Scoop out the potato centers, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick. Fill each potato with the broccoli-cheese mixture.
6. Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Yogurt Parfait
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat that’s packed with fiber, protein, and delicious flavors! This Apple Cinnamon Yogurt Parfait recipe is easy to make and perfect for breakfast or snack time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup granola (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Layer the yogurt mixture in a glass or parfait dish with the diced apples and sprinkle with cinnamon.
3. Top with granola and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time only)
Enjoy your Apple Cinnamon Yogurt Parfait!
Homemade Chicken Nuggets with Hidden Veggies
Get ready to surprise your kids (and yourself!) with a nutritious twist on traditional chicken nuggets. This recipe packs shredded veggies like carrots, zucchini, and sweet potatoes into the batter, making it a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots, zucchini, and sweet potatoes (combined)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, yogurt, egg, and shredded veggies. Blend until smooth.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into nuggets.
4. Place the nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rainbow Fruit Skewers with Yogurt Dip
Brighten up your day with these colorful and healthy fruit skewers served with a creamy yogurt dip. Perfect for snacking or as a fun party treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fruit (grapes, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi, orange)
– 10-12 wooden skewers
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces.
2. Thread 3-4 pieces of each fruit onto a skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Repeat with remaining fruit and skewers.
4. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Serve the fruit skewers chilled with the yogurt dip on the side.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and serve.
Enjoy your colorful and delicious Rainbow Fruit Skewers with Yogurt Dip!
Spinach and Cheese Egg Muffins
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful breakfast that’s easy to make and packed with protein. These spinach and cheese egg muffins are perfect for meal prep or a quick snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 muffin cups
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, spinach, and milk.
3. Add shredded cheese and mix well.
4. Pour the egg mixture into prepared muffin cups.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whole Wheat Pizza with Veggie Toppings
This hearty pizza recipe combines the nutty flavor of whole wheat crust with a colorful medley of vegetables, making for a satisfying and healthy meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and nutritious dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives)
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, warm water, olive oil, sugar, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape.
4. Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with mixed vegetables and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
A delicious and healthy treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of peanut butter. Perfect as a quick breakfast or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, peanut butter, yogurt, and milk.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes and blend again until frothy.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy.
Carrot and Zucchini Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go. With the natural sweetness of carrots and zucchinis, you’ll be surprised at how deliciously healthy they are!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, yogurt, grated carrots, and zucchini. Mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Quinoa and Veggie Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines nutritious quinoa with a variety of colorful vegetables, making it a perfect meal for any time of day. With its ease of preparation and adaptability to your favorite veggies, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and stir-fry for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Chocolate Pudding
This unique dessert combines the creaminess of avocados with the decadence of dark chocolate, creating a smooth and indulgent treat. Perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional puddings.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut cream (full-fat canned or carton)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons melted dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the cocoa powder, maple syrup, coconut cream, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Melt the dark chocolate chips in the microwave (30-second increments) or in a double boiler.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the avocado mixture until well combined.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled dessert
Turkey and Veggie Meatballs
This recipe offers a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional meatballs, using turkey and veggies as the main ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Your favorite tomato sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, onion, carrot, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with your favorite tomato sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower Tots with Dipping Sauce
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy and addictive Cauliflower Tots, paired with a tangy and creamy dipping sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce:
+ 1 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 tablespoons ketchup
+ 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
+ 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Grate the cauliflower using a box grater or food processor.
4. In a bowl, mix together flour, cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the egg and mix until a sticky dough forms.
6. Shape into tots (about 1-inch / 2.5 cm long).
7. Dip each tot in the egg mixture, then roll in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
8. Fry the tots in hot oil for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
9. Drain excess oil and place the tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and cooked through.
Dipping Sauce:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Greek Yogurt and Berry Popsicles
Beat the heat with a refreshing treat that’s perfect for kids and adults alike! These popsicles combine creamy Greek yogurt with sweet and tangy mixed berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 10-12 popsicle sticks
– Optional: edible flowers or mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Add the mixed berries to the bowl and stir gently to distribute evenly.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
4. Insert a popsicle stick into each mold.
5. Place the molds in the freezer and let freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. To unmold, run the popsicles under warm water for a few seconds.
Cooking Time: 4+ hours
Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender lentils and a variety of colorful vegetables. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying meal or a great addition to your favorite sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Whole Grain Blueberry Waffles
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast by making these whole grain blueberry waffles. Made with rolled oats, whole wheat flour, and fresh blueberries, this recipe is perfect for those looking for a wholesome morning treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, and melted butter.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto center of waffle iron.
7. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the number of waffles you make.
Grilled Cheese with Spinach and Tomato
Elevate your grilled cheese game by adding some fresh spinach and juicy tomato slices. This simple yet satisfying sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 medium tomato, sliced
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a slice of cheese, some spinach leaves, and a tomato slice.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Summary
Get your kids to eat healthy with these delicious and easy-to-make recipes! From veggie-packed mac and cheese to sweet potato tacos, there’s something for every picky eater. Mini turkey and cheese quesadillas are perfect for little hands, while homemade chicken nuggets with hidden veggies will make them feel like they’re getting away with something. Other tasty treats include apple cinnamon yogurt parfait, peanut butter banana smoothie, and quinoa and veggie stir-fry. These recipes are sure to please even the most finicky eaters and provide a nutritious start to their day.