Cooking isn’t just a life skill; it’s also a fun and creative activity that kids of all ages can enjoy! Moving away from screen time and heading into the kitchen can teach children confidence, patience, and curiosity while helping them appreciate the process of making their favorite meals. We’ve rounded up 23 exciting recipes that kids can try, from delightful breakfasts to simple snacks and tasty dinners. These recipes are perfect for little hands and growing chefs!
Simple Breakfast Recipes to Start the Day
Crunchy Breakfast Tacos
These Crunchy Breakfast Tacos are an exciting and nutritious way to kickstart your child’s day. Perfectly portioned for little hands, they combine wholesome ingredients to make breakfast both fun and healthy. All you need are small tortillas, scrambled eggs, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of your child’s favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach. Once the eggs are cooked, kids can help assemble the tacos, layering them with cheese and veggies before enjoying.
Not only are these tacos packed with nutrients, but they are also incredibly budget-friendly. Most ingredients are inexpensive pantry staples, making each serving cost only around $1.50. Plus, they’re ready to serve in under 15 minutes, making them a win for busy mornings.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 180
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
These easy-to-make tacos are a delightful way to teach kids how to create a balanced meal!
Blueberry Pancake Smoothie
This Blueberry Pancake Smoothie is a nutritious and fun twist on breakfast that kids will love to make and drink! Combining the classic flavors of pancakes and blueberries, this smoothie is packed with wholesome ingredients like fresh or frozen blueberries, oats, yogurt, and a touch of maple syrup. It’s not only delicious but also a great way to start the day with energy and nutrition.
This recipe is simple for kids to prepare with minimal supervision—just blend all the ingredients together and enjoy! Plus, it’s a wallet-friendly option, costing around $2.00 per serving, and it’s ready in under 5 minutes.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 210
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
This smoothie is an excellent source of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying choice for busy mornings or an afternoon snack.
ABC Pudding (Avocado, Banana, Chocolate Delight)
This creamy and decadent ABC Pudding is a delightful treat that’s healthy, easy to make, and perfect for kids! Packed with wholesome ingredients like avocado, banana, and cocoa powder, it provides a nutritious snack or dessert option while satisfying a chocolate craving.
This recipe is also great for kids to make, as it requires only a few ingredients, a simple blending process, and no heat! Not only is it delicious, but it’s wallet-friendly too, costing around $1.50 per serving. The pudding is naturally sweetened with bananas, making it an excellent alternative to sugary store-bought desserts.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fats: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 15g
This pudding is rich in healthy fats from the avocado and loaded with fiber, supporting digestion and satiety. A perfect balance of taste and nutrition, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
Whole Wheat Pancakes From Scratch
Making whole wheat pancakes from scratch is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, healthy breakfast that kids can help prepare. These pancakes are made with whole wheat flour, which is packed with fiber and nutrients to keep you full and energized throughout the day. They’re an excellent alternative to store-bought pancake mixes, often loaded with preservatives and added sugars.
This recipe is easy to follow, fun for kids, and guarantees fluffy, delicious results every time. Whether topped with fresh fruit, a drizzle of honey, or peanut butter, these pancakes are versatile and can cater to all taste preferences. Additionally, making them at home keeps the cost low, roughly around $5 to $7 for a batch that serves four.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 200
- Fats: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
Wholesome, easy, and budget-friendly, these pancakes are perfect for creating cherished moments in the kitchen with your kids!
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Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is the perfect breakfast choice for busy mornings and a nutritious way to start the day. Packed with fiber-rich oats, this recipe is a wholesome option that fuels the body and keeps hunger at bay. The natural sweetness from diced apples and the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon make it a favorite among kids. This meal is simple and quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for introducing young ones to cooking. With minimal supervision, children can enjoy mixing the ingredients and watching the oatmeal simmer on the stove.
Costing approximately $4 to $6 per batch, this dish is budget-friendly and serves four. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a versatile meal that can be topped with nuts, raisins, or even a dollop of yogurt for added nutrition.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 180
- Fats: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
This recipe is a healthy, easy, and engaging way for kids to enjoy cooking while learning the importance of nutritious eating!
Creative and Enjoyable Lunch Ideas
Sloppy Joe Sliders
Sloppy Joe Sliders are a delightful way to introduce kids to the joys of cooking while providing a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. These mini sandwiches are easy to assemble, making them perfect for young chefs to participate in the kitchen. The savory ground beef filling is flavored with a tangy tomato-based sauce, all nestled inside soft slider buns. This recipe is not only fun to make but also offers a balanced nutritional profile, ensuring a wholesome meal. Preparing sliders allows kids to learn portion control and explore creative toppings like shredded cheese or chopped veggies.
Per Serving (1 slider):
- Calories: 220
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
The cost of making 10 sliders is approximately $12, making it a budget-friendly choice. Sloppy Joe Sliders are a surefire way to combine healthy eating with hands-on family fun!
Mini Lasagna Cups
Mini Lasagna Cups are a creative twist on traditional lasagna, making them a perfect recipe for kids to make and enjoy. These individual portions are made by layering wonton wrappers with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, ground turkey or beef, and shredded mozzarella, then baking them until bubbly and golden.
This kid-friendly recipe is not only delicious but also teaches basic cooking skills like assembling layers and portion control. Mini Lasagna Cups are great for picky eaters, as children can customize their own cups with added veggies or different cheeses.
Per Serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 180
- Fats: 6g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
The cost of making 12 cups is approximately $10, making this a cost-effective option for families. With its simple preparation and healthy ingredients, this recipe is both fun and nutritious, providing a wholesome meal for all!
Waldorf Chicken Boats
Waldorf Chicken Boats are a perfect blend of flavor, nutrition, and fun, making them an excellent recipe choice for kids. This easy-to-make dish features crisp lettuce leaves as “boats,” filled with a delicious mixture of cooked chicken, yogurt, apples, celery, and walnuts. It’s a hands-on recipe that encourages kids to get creative by assembling their own boats, adding an interactive element to mealtime.
This recipe is not only fun but also packed with nutrients. Chicken provides high-quality protein, while apples and celery add fiber and natural sweetness. Walnuts contribute healthy fats, making this a balanced and wholesome meal.
Per Serving (1 boat):
- Calories: 160
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 14g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Costing around $12 for 6 servings, Waldorf Chicken Boats are both nutritious and budget-friendly. Their simplicity and health benefits make them a fantastic option for families!
Peanut Butter Granola Pinwheels
Peanut Butter Granola Pinwheels are a delightful and fun snack option, especially perfect for kids to make with minimal supervision. These pinwheels combine creamy peanut butter, whole-grain tortillas, and crunchy granola, creating a harmonious blend of texture and flavor.
The natural sweetness comes from a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of raisins, making this a nutritious treat kids will love. Not only are they incredibly easy to prepare, but they are also packed with energy-boosting nutrients that support growing bodies. Kids enjoy the hands-on fun of spreading, sprinkling, and rolling the ingredients into pinwheels, making it a playful and educational kitchen activity.
Per Serving (1 pinwheel):
- Calories: 120
- Fats: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
At an approximate cost of $8 for 8 servings, these pinwheels are both affordable and wholesome, offering a satisfying snack that’s budget-friendly and health-conscious.
Herbed Chicken Nuggets
Herbed Chicken Nuggets are a delightful treat that combines great taste with wholesome ingredients, making them a perfect choice for a kid-friendly snack or meal. These nuggets are packed with lean protein, thanks to the chicken, and are coated with flavorful herbs and spices to create a crispy, baked alternative to traditional fried options.
Kids can also get involved in the process by helping to coat the chicken pieces, making it a fun and interactive kitchen experience that encourages healthy eating habits from a young age.
Per Serving (4-5 pieces):
- Calories: 150
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
At a cost of approximately $10 for 4 servings, these nuggets strike the perfect balance between nutrition and affordability. They are a simple, healthier take on a classic favorite and are sure to please both kids and adults alike!
Snacks That Are Fun to Make and Eat
Kiddie Crunch Mix
Kiddie Crunch Mix is a delightful and wholesome snack that combines fun with nutrition, making it an excellent choice for kids. This easy-to-make mix includes a variety of ingredients such as whole-grain cereal, dried fruits, nuts, and a handful of dark chocolate chips. It’s a quick recipe that children can assemble themselves, fostering creativity and independence while learning about healthy snacking.
Per Serving (1/2 cup):
- Calories: 180
- Fats: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 7g
The mix is not only nutritious but also budget-friendly, with a total cost of approximately $8 for 10 servings. It’s a convenient option for busy families, as it can be prepared in batches and stored for up to a week. The Kiddie Crunch Mix is perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or even road trips, offering a satisfying crunch that both kids and adults will love!
Marshmallow Fruit Dip
The Marshmallow Fruit Dip is a delightful treat that’s both easy to make and loved by kids. With just a few simple ingredients, this dip transforms fresh fruit into a fun, irresistible snack. Its creamy texture and sweet flavor make healthy eating more appealing for children, encouraging them to enjoy more fruits without complaints. Best of all, it’s a no-cook recipe that even young kids can help prepare—simply mix, dip, and enjoy!
Not only is it tasty, but it’s also cost-effective, coming in at roughly $5 for 8 servings. Paired with your choice of fruits like apple slices, strawberries, or bananas, it’s a versatile option for any occasion, from after-school snacks to party platters.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 90
- Fats: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 14g
This fun and nutritious recipe is a great way to make snacking exciting and healthy!
Gobble Up Granola Snacks
Gobble Up Granola Snacks are a delightful and nutritious treat that kids will love to both make and eat! They’re perfect for busy parents looking for easy, healthy snack ideas that don’t compromise on flavor. Granola is packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, dried fruits, and a touch of honey for sweetness. These energy-packed snacks provide the fuel kids need for active play or focused study sessions while introducing them to the joy of creating their own snacks.
One of the best things about granola snacks is their versatility. They can be customized with a variety of mix-ins, such as nuts, seeds, or even dark chocolate chips, making it an exciting experience every time. Plus, they’re easy on the wallet, costing just about $6 for a batch of 12 servings.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 120
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
With simple steps and common pantry ingredients, Gobble Up Granola Snacks add fun to learning and snacking alike!
Baked Tofu Tenders
Baked Tofu Tenders are a delicious and protein-packed snack that’s perfect for kids to make and enjoy. They’re not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different spices and marinades to suit your family’s taste buds. These tenders are a fantastic plant-based alternative to traditional chicken tenders, offering a healthier twist while still being just as crunchy and satisfying.
The recipe is budget-friendly, costing about $5 for a batch of 12 tenders, making it an excellent option for families looking to make nutritious choices without breaking the bank. Kids will love helping out by coating the tofu strips in breadcrumbs before they get baked to crispy perfection. Not only do these tenders encourage creativity in the kitchen, but they also serve as a wholesome snack or meal component.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 90
- Fats: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Fruity Peanut Butter Pitas
A fun, easy, and nutritious snack or lunch option, Fruity Peanut Butter Pitas are perfect for kids and adults alike. This recipe combines the protein-rich goodness of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of fresh fruit, all wrapped in a whole wheat pita pocket. It’s a recipe that encourages creativity as children can choose their favorite fruits, such as banana slices, strawberries, or apple chunks, to layer inside the pita.
The combination of fiber, healthy fats, and natural sugars make this snack both filling and energizing, while still being easy to prepare with minimal ingredients. Best of all, it’s a budget-friendly option, with the ingredients costing roughly $5-$7 depending on the fruit used.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fats: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 10g
This quick recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to make healthy eating fun and interactive.
Easy Dinners That Shine
Taco Cheeseburger
The Taco Cheeseburger is the perfect fusion of two universally loved dishes—tacos and cheeseburgers—offering a unique flavor experience that’s both satisfying and fun to prepare. It’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or a casual family dinner. What makes it especially appealing is how easy it is to involve kids in the cooking process. From assembling the ingredients to adding their favorite toppings, this recipe not only keeps kids engaged but also encourages healthy eating habits by incorporating wholesome ingredients.
This dish strikes a great balance between indulgence and nutrition. Ground turkey or lean beef can be used as a healthier protein option, while whole-grain buns or lettuce wraps add a nutritious touch. Topped with fresh veggies like tomatoes, onions, and lettuce, it’s both colorful and packed with essential vitamins. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, costing approximately $10 to $12 for a family of four.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 345
- Fats: 15g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
Pizza Skewers
Pizza Skewers are a fun, healthy, and interactive snack idea that kids will love creating and eating. These skewers offer all the flavors of a traditional pizza but in an easy-to-handle, bite-sized format. To assemble, you simply thread ingredients like cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, turkey pepperoni slices, and whole-grain bread cubes onto skewers.
For added flavor, a side of marinara sauce can be used for dipping, making it a hands-on experience for children. This recipe is not only easy for kids to make but also a healthier option than store-bought pizza, as it minimizes processed ingredients and boosts nutrient content.
Best of all, it’s budget-friendly, costing around $8 to $10 and yielding enough for four servings. It’s perfect for an afternoon snack or a fun addition to lunchboxes.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 280
- Fats: 12g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Garden Fresh Tomato Soup
This homemade Garden Fresh Tomato Soup is a delightful blend of rich flavors and nutrition, making it an ideal recipe for kids to make and enjoy. Packed with the goodness of ripe, fresh tomatoes, this soup is both healthy and budget-friendly. It costs approximately $6 to $8 to prepare, serving up to four bowls of warm, wholesome comfort. The recipe avoids unnecessary additives found in store-bought versions, ensuring you and your family consume a nutritious, preservative-free meal.
Not only is this recipe easy to follow, but it also helps introduce kids to cooking by encouraging them to participate in simple steps like blending or stirring. Additionally, its nutrient profile makes it a fantastic choice for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner side.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 120
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
Southwestern Ground Beef Tacos
Southwestern Ground Beef Tacos are a delicious, budget-friendly, and family-friendly meal that is both nutritious and easy to prepare. Ground beef serves as a rich source of protein, making this recipe both filling and energy-packed. The added southwest seasoning, fresh vegetables, and soft taco shells create a balance of flavors and textures that kids and adults love. This recipe is perfect for introducing kids to the kitchen — they can help with tasks like layering toppings, mixing spices, or assembling their tacos. It’s a great way to encourage picky eaters to engage with their food.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also cost-effective, with an estimated cost of about $8-$10 to serve a family of four. It’s a healthy and satisfying choice that combines convenience with wholesome ingredients for a balanced meal.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fats: 10g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
Roasted Turkey Pinwheels
Roasted turkey pinwheels are a delightful and easy-to-make snack or meal option that kids and adults alike will love. These pinwheels are made with whole wheat tortillas, a light spread of cream cheese, fresh spinach, and slices of lean roasted turkey. The combination creates a nutrient-packed, bite-sized treat that’s perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or even party platters. This recipe is not only delicious but also encourages children to participate in the kitchen. Rolling the tortillas and assembling the pinwheels are fun and simple steps, making it an excellent hands-on activity for kids.
This recipe is cost-effective too, with an approximate cost of $6-$8 to prepare a batch that serves a family of four. It’s a wholesome and balanced choice that provides essential nutrients while keeping the kids satisfied and healthy.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 200
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Sweet Desserts To End the Day
Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Banana Sandwiches
A delightful and healthy treat for kids, Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Banana Sandwiches are quick, delicious, and packed with nutrients. This no-cook recipe is kid-friendly, allowing them to participate in the kitchen with minimal supervision. It’s as simple as slicing ripe bananas, spreading a dab of peanut butter between two slices, and rolling the “sandwich” in mini chocolate chips for a fun finishing touch. Not only does this recipe satisfy sweet cravings, but it is also filled with protein and essential nutrients from peanut butter and bananas, making it a wholesome snack.
This recipe is budget-friendly as well, costing approximately $5 to $7 to make a batch that serves 6. It’s perfect for after-school snacks or a quick dessert option that feels indulgent without being overly sugary.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 210
- Fats: 9g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
Raspberry and Cream Cheese Brownie Bites
These Raspberry and Cream Cheese Brownie Bites are a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and tangy raspberry flavors, with a luscious cream cheese swirl to elevate the experience. Not only are they decadent and delicious, but they are also a creative, kid-friendly recipe that’s simple and fun to make. This recipe encourages children to participate in baking while learning basic kitchen skills, ensuring an engaging activity for family time.
Additionally, these brownie bites are budget-conscious, costing around $8 to $10 to prepare a batch that yields 12 servings. The use of fresh raspberries adds a touch of natural sweetness and fresh fruit benefits. Perfect for parties, snacks, or just a scrumptious dessert, these treats feel indulgent but remain reasonably nutritious when enjoyed in moderation.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 180
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 16g
Raspberry Ice Cream
Raspberry Ice Cream is a delicious, refreshing treat that’s simple to make and perfect for kids to enjoy crafting in the kitchen. This easy-to-prepare recipe uses minimal ingredients, making it both fun and affordable. With an approximate cost of $6 to $8 for a batch that serves six, it’s a budget-friendly dessert.
The creamy texture paired with the tart-sweet flavor of fresh raspberries makes it a truly satisfying option. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also offers a healthier alternative to store-bought ice cream, as it contains no artificial additives and is made using natural ingredients. The recipe encourages kids to engage in a fun, hands-on cooking activity while promoting the use of wholesome foods.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 150
- Fats: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 14g
Start Cooking Together Today
These 23 recipes make cooking a bonding experience between kids and adults. Not only will your little ones learn valuable skills, but they’ll also feel a boost in confidence every time they contribute to creating a meal. Whether your child is stirring, measuring, or whisking, each task helps foster a sense of independence.
If these kid-friendly recipes inspired you, we’d love to hear about your kitchen adventures. Share your favorite moments or pictures with us on social media! Happy cooking!