From chicken strips and pasta to creative takes on pizza and tacos, these dinner ideas for picky eaters are a huge hit with kiddos and adults!
70 Dinners to Make for Your Picky Eater
Updated on Sep. 23, 2024
Favorite Baked Spaghetti
This baked spaghetti is my grandchildren’s most-loved dish. It feels like such a special dinner and is so cozy for winter. —Louise Miller, Westminster, Maryland
1/70
2/70
Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets
Total Time
24 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I developed this recipe to copycat Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets. I knew I had a winner the first time I made them because the whole family fought over who got the last one! For a dipping sauce, combine barbecue sauce and Dijon mustard, then stir in honey to add some sweetness. —Jeni Pittard, Statham, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 307 calories, 16g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 514mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 24g protein.
3/70
Cheeseburger and Fries Casserole
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Kids love this casserole because it combines two of their favorite fast foods. And I like the fact that I can whip it up with just four ingredients. —Karen Owen, Rising Sun, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 352 calories, 17g fat (5g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 668mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
4/70
The Best Ever Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Spreading a mixture of mayo and butter on the bread creates a delightfully crispy crust with the well-loved, wonderful flavor of butter one expects on a grilled cheese sandwich. —Josh Rink, Taste of Home Food Stylist
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 659 calories, 49g fat (27g saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 1017mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.
5/70
Hot Dog Sliders
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
3-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
An American favorite, hot dogs, turn into a fun treat that’s great for a laid-back party. They get three special treatments in this recipe: Chicago-style, Bavarian and south of the border. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 slider (calculated without toppings): 86 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 214mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
6/70
Ravioli Casserole
Total Time
40 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The whole family will love the fun, cheesy flavor of this ravioli casserole. It’s like lasagna—without all the fuss! Timesaving ingredients such as prepared spaghetti sauce and frozen ravioli make it a cinch to fix. Children can help you assemble this one. —Mary Ann Rothert, Austin, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 518 calories, 25g fat (12g saturated fat), 88mg cholesterol, 1411mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 5g fiber), 30g protein.
7/70
Burger Sliders with Secret Sauce
Total Time
30 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
These sliders are super easy to put together and are always a hit! I love that they are “fast food” without our having to go to a restaurant. Take them to a party, make them for dinner or serve them on game day. The meat can also be made ahead of time in preparation for your gathering. —April Lee Wiencek, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 slider: 397 calories, 21g fat (8g saturated fat), 116mg cholesterol, 785mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.
8/70
White Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My mac and cheese is simple and has lots of flavor from the cheeses and ground chipotle chile. I use conchiglie pasta because its shape allows more melted cheese to pool inside. Yum! —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 650 calories, 35g fat (22g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 607mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein.
9/70
Beef Quesadillas
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Quick-cooking ground beef is the perfect ingredient for on-the-run cooks. Try this beef quesadilla recipe with your favorite taco toppings.
Nutrition Facts:
3 wedges: 545 calories, 32g fat (14g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 924mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 29g protein.
10/70
Pizza Noodle Bake
Total Time
40 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a family-pleasing casserole that comes together in a snap, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. Double the recipe and freeze one for later! —Bernice Knutson, Soldier, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 644 calories, 33g fat (15g saturated fat), 160mg cholesterol, 913mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 43g protein.
11/70
Cheesy Fiesta Beef Casserole
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Over the years I’ve tweaked this recipe to end up with a wonderful, quick weeknight meal. Feel free to spice it up with jalapenos, if you prefer a little more heat. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 477 calories, 26g fat (9g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1119mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 23g protein.
12/70
Cheeseburger Cups
Total Time
30 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a terrific recipe for moms with young kids and busy lives. This simple, inexpensive dish is made with handy ingredients and takes just a short time. Best of all, kids will go crazy for these darling dinner bites! —Jeri Millhouse, Ashland, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cheeseburger cup: 299 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 910mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
13/70
Burritos
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My cousin is of Mexican heritage, and I’ve watched her make this crunchy beef burrito recipe for years. The very first time I made them for my own family, they instantly became a favorite meal. They’re even better warmed up the next day in the microwave. —Debi Lane, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito: 519 calories, 24g fat (10g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1539mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 8g fiber), 27g protein.
14/70
Crockpot Mac and Cheese
Total Time
4 hours
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic casserole is a rich and cheesy meatless main dish. I've never met anyone who didn't ask for a second helping. —Bernice Glascoe, Roxboro, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 502 calories, 28g fat (18g saturated fat), 131mg cholesterol, 638mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
15/70
Walking Tacos
Total Time
40 min
Servings
5 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These Walking Tacos are perfect for an on-the-go dinner, a campfire meal or an easy game-night supper. The ingredients go right into the chip bags! —Beverly Matthews, Richland, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving (calculated without toppings): 530 calories, 28g fat (6g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 1017mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 24g protein.
16/70
Fried Cheese Ravioli
Total Time
35 min
Servings
about 2-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Be sure to make enough of these crispy fried cheese ravioli. They’re bound to be the hit of your party. The golden-brown pillows are easy to pick up and dip in tomato sauce. —Kate Dampier, Quail Valley, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 ravioli: 58 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 158mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
17/70
Easy Stuffed Shells
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I threw this recipe together one day when we had unexpected guests. It was an immediate hit and is now a family favorite. Get the kids involved when putting together this simple, savory dish. —Dolores Betchner, Cudahy, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3 stuffed shells: 334 calories, 17g fat (8g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 711mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 16g protein.
18/70
Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Total Time
50 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Kids and dads alike will dive right into this hearty, comforting dish. With a crispy cheese topping on a warm corn bread crust, this chili dog casserole recipe is a keeper. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 638 calories, 40g fat (16g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 1518mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 6g fiber), 22g protein.
19/70
Grilled Cheese and Pepperoni Sandwich
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Who doesn’t love a good grilled cheese sandwich recipe? This super decadent version comes fully loaded with pepperoni and five types of cheese!—Josh Rink, Taste of Home Food Stylist
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 719 calories, 55g fat (29g saturated fat), 134mg cholesterol, 1207mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein.
20/70
Nacho Tots
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is an easy, versatile party appetizer that everyone loves. If you can't find chorizo, ground beef or ground chicken are wonderful, too. Top with anything you like! —Connie Krupp, Racine, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 378 calories, 23g fat (9g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 1152mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 13g protein.
21/70
Creamy Pizza Soup
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings (2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
This Creamy Pizza Soup is like eating supreme pizza with a spoon! You can add your own favorite pizza toppings as long as you include the ooey-gooey melty cheese on top. If you can’t find the tomato and sweet basil bisque soup, try using canned tomato bisque soup and adding Italian seasoning. —Susan Bickta, Kutztown, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 576 calories, 32g fat (14g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 1548mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 3g fiber), 24g protein.
22/70
Spanish Noodles
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Bacon adds crunch to this comforting stovetop supper my mom used to make when I was a kid. Now I prepare it for my own family. —Kelli Jones, Perris, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 409 calories, 18g fat (6g saturated fat), 104mg cholesterol, 756mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 28g protein.
23/70
Cast-Iron Favorite Pizza
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Cast-iron skillets are the perfect vessel for a crisp, deep-dish pizza without needing any extra cookware. Our team developed this meaty pizza that is fabulous for any time of year. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 712 calories, 42g fat (19g saturated fat), 184mg cholesterol, 1865mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 36g protein.
24/70
Sloppy Joe Pasta
Total Time
50 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Since I found this quick-to-fix recipe a few years ago, it's become a regular part of my menu plans. Everyone loves the combination of sloppy joe ingredients, shell pasta and cheddar cheese. —Lynne Leih, Idyllwild, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 291 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 904mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 23g protein.
25/70
Chili Dog Baked Potatoes
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These chili dogs are nestled in baked potatoes for a delicious and satisfying meal. They’re perfect for a barbecue, but they’re just as tasty any time of year! —Anna Miller, Churdan, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed potato: 689 calories, 28g fat (12g saturated fat), 110mg cholesterol, 1132mg sodium, 71g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 9g fiber), 38g protein.
26/70
Taco Stuffed Shells
Total Time
50 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a kid-friendly dish so flavorful and fun, nobody is likely to guess that it's also lower in fat. It's a great family supper for busy weeknights! —Anne Thomsen, Westchester, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3 stuffed shells: 384 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 665mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 33g protein.
27/70
Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Turkey and bacon give the classic sloppy joe a frightfully tasty new spin. Freddy Krueger may invite himself to dinner! —Janine Smith, Columbia, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 431 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 90mg cholesterol, 1022mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 31g protein.
28/70
Corn Dogs
Total Time
25 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Prepare corn dogs at home just like you’d get at the fair. Both kids and grown-ups will love this hearty corn dog batter. —Ruby Williams, Bogalusa, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 corn dog: 316 calories, 23g fat (7g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 588mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
29/70
Macaroni and Beef
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I found this simple skillet recipe many years ago on a can label. I made some tweaks, and my family loved it. Because it's so easy to put together, it's a real timesaver for people with super busy schedules. —Maxine Neuhauser, Arcadia, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 317 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 700mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
30/70
Ham and Cheese Pockets
Total Time
30 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These unique sandwich pockets are filled with ingredients both kids and adults enjoy. —Callie Myers, Rockport, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 pocket: 229 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 729mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 14g protein.
31/70
Skillet Mac and Cheese
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This creamy mac and cheese is so simple it’s almost too easy! Kids really go for the rich cheese flavor, but I’ve never met an adult who didn’t love it just as much. —Ann Bowers, Rockport, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 600 calories, 37g fat (23g saturated fat), 144mg cholesterol, 1185mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein.
32/70
Beef and Shells
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I fix this supper when I'm pressed for time. It's as tasty as it is fast. Team it with salad, bread and fruit for a comforting meal. —Donna Roberts, Manhattan, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 344 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 815mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable.
33/70
Hot Dog Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When our children were small and I was super busy, I would make this quick hot dog casserole. Kids love it. —JoAnn Gunio, Franklin, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 330 calories, 24g fat (11g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 967mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
34/70
Frito Pie
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Frito pie is legendary in the Southwest for being spicy, salty and fabulously cheesy. Here’s my take on this crunchy classic. —Jan Moon, Alamogordo, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 718 calories, 40g fat (14g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 1719mg sodium, 53g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 33g protein.
35/70
Cornflake Chicken
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I took a recipe off a box of baking mix and altered it to make the prep easier. The result was this moist oven-fried cornflake chicken with a thick golden coating that’s a lot crisper than the original. —Angela Capettini, Boynton Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 drumstick and 1 thigh: 534 calories, 18g fat (7g saturated fat), 143mg cholesterol, 972mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 46g protein.
36/70
Southern Mac and Cheese
Total Time
45 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
No down-home meal is complete without Southern mac and cheese. Three types of cheese and a squirt of mustard make this comforting dish sing! —Katie Sloan, Charlotte, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 830 calories, 45g fat (30g saturated fat), 213mg cholesterol, 1368mg sodium, 67g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 39g protein.
37/70
Cheesy Chicken Parmigiana
Total Time
40 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband used to order chicken parmigiana at restaurants. Then I found this recipe in our local newspaper, adjusted it for two and began making the beloved dish at home. After more than 50 years of marriage, I still enjoy preparing his favorite recipes. —Iola Butler, Sun City, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half: 444 calories, 26g fat (8g saturated fat), 166mg cholesterol, 1496mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 29g protein.
38/70
Ham Noodle Dinner
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Whether I'm cooking for company or my own brood of five children, this delicious casserole is always well-received. —Eileen Nilsson, Plymouth, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 332 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 1144mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 20g protein.
39/70
Three-Cheese Meatball Mostaccioli
Total Time
50 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When my husband travels for work, I make a special dinner for my kids to keep their minds off missing Daddy. This tasty mostaccioli is meatball magic. —Jennifer Gilbert, Brighton, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 541 calories, 23g fat (11g saturated fat), 105mg cholesterol, 1335mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 5g fiber), 34g protein.
40/70
Homemade Fish Sticks
Total Time
25 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I am a nutritionist and needed a healthy fish fix. Moist inside and crunchy outside, these are amazing with oven fries or roasted veggies and low-fat homemade tartar sauce. —Jennifer Rowland, Elizabethtown, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 278 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 129mg cholesterol, 718mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 33g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch.
41/70
Ham Ravioli Bake
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I based this recipe on a dish my husband likes to order when we go out for Italian food. Not only does he love it, my one-year-old daughter does, too. She’ll grab a whole ravioli and eat it! —Jennifer Berger, Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 653 calories, 31g fat (16g saturated fat), 137mg cholesterol, 1496mg sodium, 61g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 35g protein.
42/70
Santa Fe Skillet
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
As a mother who works full-time, I’m always looking for quick, easy meals to prepare. This is a timeless recipe. —Lorie VanHorn, Waddell, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 287 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 1061mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 19g protein.
43/70
Smothered Burritos
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My brother-in-law teased that I only knew five ground beef recipes. I proved him wrong with my inventive spicy burritos. —Kim Kenyon, Greenwood, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito: 624 calories, 33g fat (15g saturated fat), 115mg cholesterol, 1470mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 36g protein.
44/70
New York-Style Pizza
Total Time
15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This New York-style pizza recipe makes a no-nonsense pie. Since the crust is pliable enough to fold, cut the pizza into larger pieces if you want to eat your slices in the traditional New York way. Who says pizza isn’t portable? —Mariam Ishaq, Buffalo, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 slice: 254 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 714mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein.
45/70
Chicken and Bows
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I first made this chicken bow tie pasta when I was a professional nanny. It comes together quickly at dinnertime when the kids are hungry. —Danette Forbes, Overland Park, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 536 calories, 18g fat (8g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 908mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 5g fiber), 37g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 3 very lean meat, 2 starch, 2 fat.
46/70
Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A mashup of two favorite recipes, these sloppy joe meatball subs are certainly unique. I love to make them on a lazy afternoon and freeze leftovers for an easy weeknight meal. —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 649 calories, 31g fat (10g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 1369mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 4g fiber), 36g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 lean meat.
47/70
Makeover Tater-Topped Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love Tater Tot casserole, but wanted a lighter version of the recipe. The Taste of Home Test Kitchen slashed the fat in this classic dish, while keeping all the Tots my family loves. Who know you could have healthy Tater Tots?! —Scott Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 340 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 657mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 22g protein.
48/70
Cast-Iron Pizza Pie
Total Time
40 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love shortcuts, so I created this cast-iron pizza using the convenience of frozen bread dough. It’s versatile, so pile on your family’s favorite pizza toppings. —Carol Gillespie, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 373 calories, 18g fat (7g saturated fat), 40mg cholesterol, 991mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 18g protein.
49/70
Pizza Casserole
Total Time
45 min
Servings
2 casseroles (10 servings each)
From the Recipe Creator:
Kids will line up for this zippy pizza-flavored dish. The recipe makes two casseroles, so you can serve one to your family right away and keep the other in the freezer for another night. —Nancy Scarlett, Graham, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 301 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 545mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 19g protein.
50/70
Beefy Swiss Bundles
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Kids and adults alike will devour these comforting, yet special, pockets. With creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese and flavorful seasonings, what’s not to love? Simple & Delicious. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 bundle: 679 calories, 38g fat (16g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 865mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 6g fiber), 36g protein.
51/70
Cheese-Stuffed Shells
Total Time
1 hour 25 min
Servings
2 casseroles (6 servings each)
From the Recipe Creator:
When I was living in California, I tasted this rich cheesy pasta dish at a neighborhood Italian restaurant. I got the recipe and made a few changes to it in my own kitchen. I’m happy to share it with you. —Lori Mecca, Grants Pass, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
2 stuffed shells: 397 calories, 23g fat (14g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 1097mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein.
52/70
Cheesy Hamburger Supper
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I have good memories of eating this all-in-one meal often while growing up. We all loved the flavor and seldom had leftovers. Instead of sprinkling it with cheddar, I sometimes create a cheese sauce using American cheese and milk. It makes it so cheesy! —Andrea Brandt, Newton, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 412 calories, 19g fat (11g saturated fat), 86mg cholesterol, 796mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 30g protein.
53/70
Biscuit Turkey Bake
Total Time
30 min
Servings
5 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
As a college student, I go for stick-to-your-ribs foods that are also easy on the budget. Here’s one that fits the bill. I like to bake this casserole for friends’ birthdays. —Stephanie Denning, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 327 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 1117mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.
54/70
Spaghetti Pie Casserole
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My family adores this spaghetti casserole. It's old-timey comfort food. This is how to make baked spaghetti with cream cheese. —Patricia Lavell, Islamorada, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 396 calories, 20g fat (11g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 622mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 23g protein.
55/70
Texan Ranch Chicken Casserole
Total Time
55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Every time I serve this creamy chicken casserole, it gets rave reviews. The recipe was passed down to me and is so good! It is really easy to make, freezes well and has just a touch of heat. If your family likes more heat, add some jalapenos! —Kendra Doss, Smithville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 329 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 719mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
56/70
Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I try to make foods that are not only kid friendly, but are also easy to reheat since my husband works long hours and often eats later than our children. If you like, use reduced-fat cheese and ground turkey for a lighter version. —Melissa Stevens, Elk River, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 389 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 565mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
57/70
Ham and Cheese Puffs
Total Time
30 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
These tasty little bites go over well with kids. They're also delicious with soups or as party appetizers. —Mrs. Marvin Buffington, Burlington, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 110 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 263mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
58/70
Muffin-Cup Cheddar Beef Pies
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
20 beef pies
From the Recipe Creator:
My kids love these beef rolls so much. I always make extra since they heat up so quickly. I give the kids their choice of dipping sauces—spaghetti sauce or ranch dressing are the top picks. —Kimberly Farmer, Wichita, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
2 meat pies: 482 calories, 19g fat (7g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 850mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 29g protein.
59/70
Italian Pasta Bake
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to make this pasta bake whenever I need to bring a dish to pass. Fresh tomatoes add a nice touch that’s missing from most other meat, pasta and tomato casseroles. —Karla Johnson, East Helena, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 489 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 702mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 5g fiber), 32g protein.
60/70
Pepperoni Pizza Pockets
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
16 pockets
From the Recipe Creator:
Stuffed with a pizza-style filling, these special sandwiches surprise you with a burst of flavor in every bite. They were popular with the preschool set at our son’s dinosaur-theme birthday party…but you can be sure adults will love them, too! —Robin Werner, Brush Prairie, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 pocket: 316 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 751mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein.
61/70
Chili-ghetti
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this recipe when unexpected guests stopped by and I didn't have enough chili to go around. This spur-of-the-moment main dish is now a family favorite. —Cindy Cuykendall, Skaneateles, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 374 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 51mg cholesterol, 706mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 25g protein.
62/70
Waffle-Iron Pizzas
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These little pizza pockets put together using the waffle maker are a fun mashup. Try your favorite toppings or even breakfast fillings like ham and eggs. —Amy Lents, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 pizza (calculated without sauce): 461 calories, 21g fat (8g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 1650mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.
63/70
Mama Mia Meatball Taquitos
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We love lasagna, but it takes too long on weeknights. My solution: meatball taquitos. My kids get the flavors they want, and I get a meal on the table in a hurry. —Lauren Wyler, Dripping Springs, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2 taquitos: 617 calories, 28g fat (11g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 1069mg sodium, 60g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 33g protein.
64/70
Nutty Chicken Fingers
Total Time
30 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Please both your adult palate and your inner kid with homemade chicken strips. A crunchy pecan coating makes them stand out and doesn't require a lot of ingredients. Keep things easy by using prepared sauces for dipping—or have fun creating your own! —Beba Cates, Pearland, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked chicken: 436 calories, 24g fat (3g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 346mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 38g protein.
65/70
Homemade Corn Dogs
Total Time
25 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Prepare corn dogs at home just like you'd get at the fair. Both kids and grown-ups will love this hearty corn dog batter. —Ruby Williams, Bogalusa, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 corn dog: 316 calories, 23g fat (7g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 588mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
66/70
Game-Night Nacho Pizza
Total Time
20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Some like it hot with jalapenos; others like it cool with a dollop of sour cream. But one thing’s for sure: This is “nacho” ordinary pizza night. —Jamie Jones, Madison, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 370 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 1103mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 18g protein.
67/70
Chicken Strips
Total Time
20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I recently made this recipe of Mom's for my in-laws and they told me it was the "best fried chicken ever." Slicing the chicken breasts into strips cuts down on cooking time and ensures every piece is crunchy and evenly coated. Serve the homemade chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce. —Genny Monchamp, Redding, California
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked chicken: 388 calories, 19g fat (3g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 704mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein.
68/70
Cheeseburger Crescent Ring
Total Time
40 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is an easy entree that can be put together quickly after a long day at work. I guarantee that adults will enjoy it as much as kids do. —Stephanie Hurd, Oxford, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
2 pieces: 333 calories, 18g fat (3g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 899mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 0 fiber), 14g protein.
69/70
Sweet Potato-Crusted Chicken Nuggets
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I was looking for ways to spice up traditional chicken nuggets and came up with this recipe. The chips add a crunchy texture and flavor, while the meat is tender on the inside. —Kristina Segarra, Yonkers, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 308 calories, 17g fat (1g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 690mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein.
70/70
Taco Pockets
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We love these taco-flavored sandwiches made with crescent dough. They make a quick, easy lunch or supper with a bowl of soup or a crisp salad. I also like to cut them into smaller servings for parties. —Donna Gribbins, Shelbyville, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 pocket: 393 calories, 24g fat (7g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 896mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 0 fiber), 16g protein.
