When it comes to pleasing even the most discerning young palates, finding pasta recipes that kids will love can be a daunting task. However, with a few clever tricks up your sleeve, you can create dishes that are not only delicious but also kid-approved. The following recipes have been rigorously tested on picky eaters and have emerged victorious, earning the seal of approval from even the most skeptical young diners.
Pancake Spaghetti
Let’s play a culinary trick on our little ones! Who says pancakes and spaghetti can’t coexist? By introducing this sweet breakfast treat, we’re not only making mornings more exciting but also helping our kids become more adventurous eaters. The texture of pancake spaghetti might just be the key to unlocking their taste buds and encouraging them to take a chance on real spaghetti.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
It’s no secret that kids have a special affinity for three culinary delights: chicken, ranch dressing, and crispy bacon. The combination of these flavors is so well-loved that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. If you’re looking for a way to get your little ones to devour pasta, why not try smothering it in creamy ranch and adding some tender chicken?
You can always hold back on the bacon if you think they might be overwhelmed by its rich flavor – but let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good strip of crispy bacon?
Homemade Spaghetti-Os
When faced with uncertainty, consider embracing a classic approach! Spaghetti-Os are often associated with nostalgic moments, soft textures, and a subtle flavor profile. While they may not be the most exciting option for everyone, they generally tend to appeal to kids. Instead of opting for a store-bought can filled with preservatives, why not take matters into your own hands and create your own version?
The process is surprisingly straightforward, allowing you to incorporate hidden veggies into the sauce for an added nutritional boost.
Rainbow Pasta (With Garlic Butter Sauce)
It’s an intriguing phenomenon – children who claim they don’t have a taste for green foods are often the first to be drawn to a vibrant green cupcake or cookie. The color of the food seems to play a significant role in their preference. Perhaps this is because kids are more open-minded when it comes to colors that are perceived as ‘fun’ and ‘playful’. This got me thinking – what if we made pasta into a colorful, rainbow-inspired dish?
Served with butter, it could be a game-changer for families looking to get their kids to enjoy this nutritious meal. Who knows, you might even find yourself asking for seconds!
Spaghetti Pie
Indulge your little ones with a delightful kid-friendly recipe that’s sure to be a hit! To create this scrumptious treat, combine spaghetti, eggs, and Parmesan to form the crust. Next, add layers of herby cheese, meaty pasta sauce, and bake until golden brown. Just before it’s done, sprinkle on another generous helping of melted cheese for an added layer of fun and flavor.
Cheesy Orzo
For some kids, the texture of certain foods can be off-putting, and that’s especially true when it comes to taking big bites. If your little one falls into this category, consider substituting orzo for penne pasta in your recipe. Unlike penne, which is a larger, tubular shape, orzo is small and resembles rice. This smaller size allows kids to take tiny, manageable bites that are less overwhelming, making mealtime more enjoyable.
Leftover Pasta Fritters
When it comes to textures, kids often have a preference for foods that are easy to pick up and crunch. Think nuggets, apple slices, or fries – all great options. Similarly, I believe that the sloppy sauce found in many pasta recipes can be a turn-off for some children. That’s why I’m such a fan of these innovative pasta fritters. Not only are they fun to eat, but kids can easily grab and chomp on them, then dip them in their favorite sauce if they choose.
Easy Pastina Pasta
Pastini pasta, an even smaller cousin of orzo, is ideal for tiny tots or finicky eaters. Its unique texture, reminiscent of couscous and polenta, offers a pleasant contrast to the smoothness often found in larger pasta shapes like penne. When cooked with cheese and chicken broth, Pastini takes on a rich flavor profile that’s sure to please. For added nutrition and fun, consider mixing in veggies or cooked chicken for a well-rounded meal.
How to Make Ravioli
In a refreshing twist on traditional ravioli-making, this homemade recipe allows for endless creativity and customization. You’re free to shape your ravioli into any form that sparks joy – dinosaurs, fish, stars, cars, or even fantastical creatures. The possibilities are limitless! To take it to the next level, you can also add a pop of color by using differently hued pasta dough. Imagine serving up red superheroes, pink hearts, or vibrant purple dragons.
It’s an unbeatable combination that’s sure to delight kids and adults alike.
Toasted Ravioli
When it comes to pleasing picky eaters, one effective strategy is to cater to their existing tastes. For many children, the promise of a crunchy and savory snack can be hard to resist. Take, for instance, toasted ravioli – a game-changer in the world of kid-friendly cuisine. These bite-sized treats boast a golden crust and a mild, cheesy filling that’s neither too rich nor overpowering.
What’s more, they’re designed with ease of consumption in mind: simply pick one up and dip it in your favorite sauce for an added layer of flavor.
Simple Tomato Spaghetti
When cooking for kids who love saucy dishes, spaghetti with a homemade red sauce is an excellent choice. This classic combination is not only easy and quick to prepare but also offers a healthier alternative to store-bought options. The best part? You can easily customize the recipe by adding extra veggies to suit your little ones’ tastes.
To make the pasta sauce, I suggest blending it until smooth for the best flavor. Start with a small amount of sauce over the spaghetti and adjust to taste.
Buttered Noodles
Buttered noodles are a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both young children and older kids alike. The simplicity of this dish is part of its charm, as it offers a comforting and familiar taste experience that’s gentle on tummies. Without any acidic or spicy notes, buttered noodles provide a soothing culinary treat that’s often devoured without hesitation. While it may not be the most exciting option, it’s a reliable choice that’s sure to please.
When preparing this dish for kids, consider melting the butter in a saucepan and setting some aside just for them. Then, add garlic, chili flakes, and onions to create a more robust flavor profile suitable for adults.
Old-Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a beloved family dinner that transcends generations. This comforting dish remains a crowd-pleaser regardless of how it’s prepared, making it an ideal choice for kids and adults alike. The classic approach ensures success when feeding little ones, as the creamy, buttery, and indulgently cheesy sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient, ready to be served in just four simple steps.
Super Easy Pizza Pasta Bake
Pasta can be a great way to reimagine the classic comfort food that is pizza. When you think about it, pepperoni’s savory flavor profile is a crowd-pleaser among kids, and for good reason – it’s a familiar and enjoyable taste experience. By repurposing the same ingredients found in a traditional pizza – pasta, sauce, cheese, and of course, pepperoni – we can create a dish that’s both reminiscent of pizza and appealing to even the most finicky eaters.
If someone enjoys a classic tomato and cheese pizza, it’s likely they’ll appreciate this creative twist on a beloved favorite.
Broccoli Pesto Pasta
For young foodies who don’t mind getting creative with colors on their plate, this recipe is an absolute delight! And, let’s be honest, Hulk fans will love it too. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – a harmonious balance of salty Parmesan and fresh herbal notes from the pesto. But what really makes it special is the sneaky addition of steamed broccoli that blends seamlessly with the other flavors, ensuring kids won’t even notice they’re eating their greens.
Meatless Baked Ziti
Looking for a meatless option that’s both kid-friendly and packed with flavor? Look no further than this baked ziti recipe, which boasts an impressive 100% meat-free guarantee. The best part? Its hidden pasta texture is masked by a rich, cheesy marinara sauce coating, making it a sure-fire hit with even the pickiest eaters.
Threaded Spaghetti Hot Dog Bites
As nostalgic as hot dogs and spaghetti can be, it’s no wonder these classic combos evoke a sense of childhood joy. The thought of serving them up to kids is almost too fun to resist, especially considering how much they adore the humble hot dog. Simply add a pat of butter, some melted cheese, or a drizzle of that signature red sauce, and get ready for a snack-time showdown – these tasty treats won’t stand a chance against eager young appetites.
Ravioli Cupcakes
Portion size plays a significant role in kids being finicky eaters. When they’re presented with a large serving of pasta, it’s overwhelming and can lead to frustration. In contrast, these bite-sized ravioli cupcakes are perfectly proportioned for little hands. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to substitute ground beef with chicken or omit it altogether. However, don’t be stingy when it comes to the cheese – a generous helping is essential!
Fettuccine Alfredo
The allure of creamy pasta dishes is undeniable, particularly when they’re infused with a generous amount of cheese. Among the many beloved varieties, Fettuccine Alfredo holds a special place in the hearts of many – including kids. Its popularity is a mystery that’s not entirely unwelcome, as it provides a delicious canvas for adding protein-packed ingredients like sliced steak or grilled chicken, which can elevate the dish to new heights.
