Posted by Tastefully Simple on October 1, 2024
No matter how busy days get, dinner is still a necessity. But it doesn’t have to feel like another chore or a source of stress—making dinner can be a fun way to spend time with the kids and get them excited about what’s on the table. Instead of letting cooking take away from quality time, use it as an opportunity to bond. Cooking together teaches life skills, encourages healthy eating, boosts confidence, and sparks creativity. Plus, we’ve gathered some kid-friendly recipes that will have your little helpers excited—and we’re pretty sure they’ll love the results too!
Depending on their age, kids can help in a variety of ways while you whip up your next 5-star meal! The most important factor is safety, so be sure to assign tasks that are fun and manageable for them. And don’t forget, every chef needs a taste tester!
Let’s Start with a Classic: Queso Mac & Cheese
This family favorite can be baked right away or made ahead of time by adding the tortilla chips right before backing. While the pasta is boiling, let the kids practice their math by measuring and pouring ingredients for the sauce, and they can take turns stirring. Younger kids can help by sprinkling the shredded cheese and tortilla chips over the macaroni before baking. Make sure to have our Queso Mac & Cheese ready for this one!
Chicken Tenders, But Make It Fun: Rustic Herb Chicken Tenders
Kids love chicken tenders, and this recipe makes it easy for them to get involved. Have them pour all the ingredients into a big plastic bag and shake it up until everything’s mixed. Bonus points if they dance while shaking! This recipe also introduces kids to different herbs and spices, expanding their palates with a familiar dish.
Don’t Forget the Sides: Creamy Ranch Mashed Potatoes & Ultimate Roasted Carrots
Sides don’t have to add extra stress to meal prep! For Creamy Ranch Mashed Potatoes, an adult should handle cutting the potatoes, but kids can learn to use a strainer and mash the ingredients together afterward. For veggies, our Ultimate Roasted Carrots are a great way to introduce kids to cooking with vegetables. They can cut tin foil and drizzle olive oil over the carrots, then watch as they transform into a delicious side dish.
Finish with Dessert: Yummy Mummy Apple Cake
Who can resist dessert? Our Yummy Mummy Apple Cake is a perfect treat for fall. Get the kids involved by having them wash the apples—an excellent way to teach the importance of cleaning fruits and vegetables. Let them help mix the ingredients together, and place the pie dough strips on top to create the mummy look. For the best part, once the cake is done and out of the oven, let them add the eyes for the finishing touch!
Cooking with kids doesn’t stop at the stove. You can also give them responsibilities like setting the table or helping load the dishwasher, which instills a sense of teamwork and responsibility. We hope these recipes inspire you to enjoy cooking with your little ones!
And if you’re looking for more fun in the kitchen, join Tastefully Simple’s National Cooking with Kids Event on October 17! You’ll receive a special bundle with everything you need for a Halloween-inspired meal that’s perfect for making memories with your family.