The holiday season is upon us, and for many families, that means planning a special menu for their loved ones. But let’s be real – cooking for kids can be a challenge! They often have strong opinions about what they’ll eat, and it’s hard to please everyone. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 delicious kid-friendly Thanksgiving recipes that are easy to make and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic comfort foods like mashed potatoes and green beans to fun twists on traditional dishes like pumpkin mac and cheese, these recipes are perfect for kids of all ages. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make – no cooking skills or fancy techniques required!
So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember with these 20 delicious kid-friendly recipes…
Turkey and Cheese Sliders
Get ready to serve up a flavorful and satisfying snack with these easy-to-make Turkey and Cheese Sliders!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 8 hamburger buns
– 8 slices of cheddar cheese
– Lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, and oregano. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
3. Form the mixture into 8 small patties.
4. Grill the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble the sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, topping with cheese and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Potato Tater Tots
Sweet Potato Tater Tots Recipe
A twist on classic tater tots, these sweet potato-based bites are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional taters.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until a dough forms.
4. Shape the dough into small tots, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length.
5. Place the tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the tots and gently toss to coat.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Pumpkin Pies
These bite-sized pumpkin pies are perfect for a fall gathering or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini pie crusts (12-15 count)
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
3. Beat in the eggs until well combined.
4. Roll out the mini pie crusts and spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pumpkin mixture into each crust.
5. Top with another pie crust or a pastry strip to form a lattice design.
6. Brush the edges with a little water and crimp to seal.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Mashed Potato Cups
Transform mashed potatoes into a satisfying snack or side dish by filling them with gooey cheese and crispy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Chopped scallions, crumbled bacon, or diced ham for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Divide mashed potatoes into 6-8 portions, depending on desired cup size.
4. Place a spoonful of shredded cheddar cheese in the center of each portion.
5. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, crumbled bacon, or diced ham (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cranberry Apple Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce is perfect for topping pork chops, pancakes, or using as a dip for crackers. With the combination of juicy apples and tart cranberries, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, cranberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in cinnamon and remove from heat.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey-Shaped Cheese Crackers
Get creative with these adorable turkey-shaped cheese crackers perfect for kids’ parties or a fun snack any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten
– Turkey-shaped cookie cutter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Use the turkey-shaped cookie cutter to cut out crackers. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crackers are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Stuffing Muffins
Start your day off right with these sweet and savory muffins that combine the flavors of traditional stuffing with the convenience of a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, bread, celery, onion, melted butter, chicken broth, egg, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
Transform your comfort food game with this seasonal take on macaroni and cheese, featuring roasted pumpkin puree and a blend of artisanal cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), roasted and pureed
– 4 cups whole milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni al dente, then set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in roasted pumpkin puree, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheese. Pour in pumpkin sauce and mix until creamy.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Bean Fries
Get ready to enjoy a healthier take on traditional fries with this tasty and easy-to-make green bean fry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each green bean into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and brush with olive oil.
5. Arrange green beans in a single layer on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra crunchy coating, try dipping the green beans into beaten eggs before coating with flour mixture.
– Experiment with different seasonings, such as chili powder or dried herbs, to give your green bean fries a unique flavor.
Cornbread Muffins with Honey Butter
These moist cornbread muffins are infused with the sweetness of honey and a hint of spices, perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat. Serve warm with a pat of creamy honey butter for an added layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– Honey, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, buttermilk, and egg.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
1. Mix softened butter with a drizzle of honey until well combined.
2. Serve warm cornbread muffins with a pat of honey butter on top.
Turkey Veggie Wraps
A flavorful and healthy wrap filled with turkey, veggies, and creamy hummus.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, sliced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 2 tbsp hummus
– 2 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, avocado, or pickled vegetables for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Arrange the mixed greens in the center of the tortilla.
3. Add sliced turkey breast on top of the greens.
4. Add bell peppers and red onion slices beside the turkey.
5. Spread 1 tbsp hummus over the veggies.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up to create a compact wrap.
7. Repeat with the second tortilla and filling ingredients.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assemble-only recipe!
Pumpkin Spice Popcorn
Get ready to cozy up with this deliciously fall-inspired popcorn recipe! The perfect blend of pumpkin spice and sweetness will make you feel like you’re snuggling up by the fire pit on a crisp autumn evening.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar until dissolved.
4. Pour popcorn into the saucepan and toss until evenly coated with the syrup mixture.
5. Spread coated popcorn onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the top.
6. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Mini Corn Dogs
Mini Corn Dogs Recipe
A classic fairground favorite gets a bite-sized makeover with these adorable mini corn dogs. Perfect for parties, snacks, or just because!
Ingredients:
– 12-15 hot dog bun halves
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Your favorite hot dog toppings (ketchup, mustard, relish, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each hot dog bun half into the dry mixture, coating evenly.
4. Fry the coated bun halves in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve warm with your favorite hot dog toppings!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total, depending on frying time.
Apple Cinnamon Yogurt Parfait
A delicious and healthy dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, all layered on top of creamy yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced fresh apple (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup granola or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, toss the diced apple with the ground cinnamon until coated.
3. Layer the yogurt mixture, apple mixture, and granola (if using) in a tall glass or parfait dish.
4. Repeat the layers one more time to create a layered effect.
5. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Cheesy Broccoli Bites
Transform broccoli into a crispy, cheesy delight with this easy recipe! These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Beat the egg in a separate bowl and set aside.
4. Dip each broccoli floret into the beaten egg, then roll in the cheese mixture to coat. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the broccoli bites and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thanksgiving-Themed Sugar Cookies
Celebrate Thanksgiving with these sweet treats shaped like turkeys and leaves, perfect for a festive holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Colored sugar and edible markers for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into shapes using a turkey or leaf cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 sugar cookies
Turkey and Gravy Pizza Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the flavors of turkey and gravy with a crispy pizza crust, perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought turkey gravy
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
4. In a small bowl, mix together cheese, turkey, and gravy until well combined.
5. Place a tablespoon of the turkey mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Fold other half over to form a triangle or rectangle shape, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pumpkin Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy pumpkin pancakes, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Rainbow Fruit Skewers
Add a pop of color and flavor to your next gathering with these vibrant Rainbow Fruit Skewers! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy snack that’s perfect for parties or on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh kiwi, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh grapes, halved
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Thread a piece of each fruit onto a skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
2. Repeat the process until all the fruit is used up, finishing with a pineapple chunk on top.
3. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These skewers are perfect as-is, no cooking required.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Turkey Sandwiches
A twist on the classic PB&J, this recipe adds protein-packed turkey to create a satisfying sandwich perfect for lunch or snack time.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of whole wheat bread
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon grape jelly
– 2 ounces sliced turkey breast
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface.
2. Spread one slice with peanut butter and the other with grape jelly.
3. Place two slices of turkey breast on top of the peanut butter or jelly.
4. Add lettuce leaves if desired for extra crunch and flavor.
5. Sandwich together to create a delicious PB&J Turkey sandwich.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assemble and serve!)
Summary
Get ready to delight your little ones with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make Thanksgiving recipes! From classic dishes like turkey and cheese sliders and pumpkin mac and cheese, to fun twists like green bean fries and mini corn dogs, there’s something for every young palate. Plus, don’t miss out on sweet treats like pumpkin spice popcorn and apple cinnamon yogurt parfaits. With these kid-friendly recipes, you’ll be the host with the most this Thanksgiving – without breaking a sweat!