Dinner Recipes the Whole Family Will Ask For Again

Kid-friendly savory recipes are all about simple ingredients, familiar flavors, and meals the whole family can enjoy. These dishes are easy to make and can often be prepped ahead to save time during busy weekdays. They’re great for picky eaters and still enjoyable for adults.

From cheesy casseroles to handheld snacks and veggie-packed meals, there are plenty of options that kids will actually eat. Many of these recipes use pantry staples and don’t require fancy techniques. It’s all about keeping things fun, practical, and stress-free.

These meals work well for lunchboxes, quick dinners, or weekend bites. Whether it’s something baked, pan-fried, or one-pot, you’ll find choices that make feeding kids a little easier. They’re made to be flexible, so you can tweak them to suit your family’s preferences.

Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

This dish brings together creamy spinach-artichoke dip flavors with tender chicken and melted cheese. It bakes into a warm, comforting casserole that’s great for weeknight dinners. Serve it on its own or with rice or pasta to round things out. Easy to prep and even better as leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Spaghetti Casserole

A cozy baked version of classic spaghetti, this dish layers noodles, sauce, and cheese into one bubbling pan. It’s hearty, easy to slice, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Add meat or veggies if you like, but it’s solid on its own too. Makes a great freezer meal.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Cheddar Chicken Bake

Juicy chicken, sharp cheddar, and a creamy sauce come together in this simple baked dish. It’s rich, cheesy, and just right when you’re looking for something warm and filling. Pair it with a salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. A reliable favorite when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Chicken Bake

Two Ingredient Chicken Nuggets

These nuggets are made with just chicken and your favorite coating—quick to make and surprisingly tasty. They bake or air fry in minutes and are great for kids or quick lunches. Add dipping sauces and you’ve got a meal or snack without much fuss. A go-to when you want fast and homemade.
Get the Recipe: Two Ingredient Chicken Nuggets

Chicken Pastina Soup

This cozy soup combines tiny pasta and shredded chicken in a light, flavorful broth. It’s perfect for chilly days, quick lunches, or when you’re under the weather. Simple ingredients come together in a comforting bowl. Add grated parmesan or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pastina Soup

Crock Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

Slow-cooked beef with Italian seasoning makes these sandwiches rich and packed with flavor. The meat turns super tender and soaks up all the juices. Serve it on crusty rolls with melted cheese or peppers for extra texture. Great for game days, meal prep, or hands-off dinners.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

Tex Mex Casserole

Layers of ground meat, beans, corn, and cheese make this casserole hearty and full of flavor. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that can be customized with toppings like salsa, sour cream, or jalapeños. Great for feeding a family or saving for leftovers. One of those dishes that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Tex Mex Casserole

Chicken Taco Soup

This soup is loaded with chicken, beans, corn, and just the right amount of spice. It’s simple to throw together and simmers into a comforting, filling bowl. Top with chips, cheese, or avocado for extra flavor. Perfect for busy days or cozy nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Taco Soup

Smashed White Bean Quesadillas

These quesadillas use smashed white beans for a creamy, hearty filling that pairs well with cheese and spices. Crisp on the outside and warm inside, they’re a quick meatless option. Serve with salsa, sour cream, or hot sauce on the side. An easy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Smashed White Bean Quesadillas

Instant Pot Chicken Stew with Squash

This stew is packed with chicken, tender squash, and a light, flavorful broth—all ready in the pressure cooker. It’s cozy, nourishing, and comes together fast. Perfect for busy days when you want something warm and wholesome. A great way to use seasonal squash too.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Stew with Squash

Cheese Enchiladas

Soft tortillas filled with melty cheese and baked in a rich enchilada sauce—this dish is simple but full of flavor. It’s a solid meatless main that pairs well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Make a big batch and reheat throughout the week. Always a comfort food classic.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Enchiladas

Bubble Up Pizza Bites

These bite-sized rolls are loaded with pizza toppings and baked until golden and cheesy. They’re great for snacks, party appetizers, or a fun dinner. Use whatever toppings you like—pepperoni, sausage, or just cheese. A quick and fun twist on pizza night.
Get the Recipe: Bubble Up Pizza Bites

Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich

Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, this sandwich comes together quickly in the air fryer. Add your favorite toppings and a soft bun, and it’s just as good as the drive-thru version. It’s easy to customize with sauces or slaw. A solid option when cravings hit but you want to keep it homemade.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich

Penne Pasta Bake

This pasta bake is loaded with sauce, cheese, and plenty of penne to soak it all up. It’s great for feeding a group or planning ahead for leftovers. Add veggies or meat if you want to bulk it up. Bakes until bubbly and golden—comfort food at its best.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pasta Bake

Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli

Creamy Alfredo sauce coats spaghetti and tender broccoli in this quick stovetop dish. It’s rich but balanced by the veggie, and easy to toss together on a busy evening. Add grilled chicken or keep it simple and meatless. Great with a sprinkle of parmesan or a squeeze of lemon.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli

Pork Steak in the Air Fryer

Air frying gives pork steaks a crispy edge while keeping the inside juicy. They cook fast and pair well with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes. Season simply or go bold with a spice rub. A great way to switch things up from chicken or beef.
Get the Recipe: Pork Steak in the Air Fryer

Burger Bowls

All the flavors of a classic burger served in a bowl with your favorite toppings. Skip the bun, but keep the beef, cheese, pickles, and sauce. Great for low-carb meals or just a lighter twist on the usual. Quick to prep and easy to customize.
Get the Recipe: Burger Bowls

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Seared to crisp perfection in a cast iron pan, these chicken thighs come out juicy and golden every time. The pan does the heavy lifting to lock in flavor and texture. Pair with roasted veggies or a simple salad. One of those easy, no-fuss meals that always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Chicken Dorito Casserole

Crunchy chips, creamy chicken, and melted cheese baked into one fun, flavor-packed casserole. It’s great for kids, potlucks, or when you’re looking for something easy and hearty. Layer it up, toss it in the oven, and it’s ready in no time. A nostalgic dish with a little crunch.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Dorito Casserole

Creamy Garlic Chicken

This chicken is simmered in a rich, garlicky sauce that’s perfect over rice or pasta. It’s a one-pan dish that feels comforting without being heavy. Serve with a green vegetable to balance things out. Great for both weeknights and when guests are over.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken