Finding meals that cater to both kids and adults can sometimes feel like a challenge. Luckily, there are plenty of options that satisfy all taste buds without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Here’s a list of 14 meals that your whole family will enjoy, with simple instructions and easy-to-find ingredients. These recipes are wholesome, delicious, and sure to become staples in your household.
1. Baked Chicken Tenders
A healthier twist on a classic that’s quick, easy, and delicious. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Mix 1 cup breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor. Coat 500g chicken strips in flour, then beaten eggs (2), and finally in the breadcrumb mixture. Arrange the strips on a lined baking tray and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue.
2. Mini Chicken and Veggie Pies
Handheld pies with a creamy chicken and veggie filling. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Mix 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup mixed vegetables, and 1/2 cup cream, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cut 4 puff pastry sheets into circles, press into a muffin tin, and fill with the mixture. Cover with pastry lids, brush with 1 beaten egg, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Serve warm and enjoy.
3. Beef and Cheese Sliders
Bite-sized burgers packed with flavor and good for any occasion. Shape 500g ground beef into small patties, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for added depth. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until juicy and browned. Toast 8 mini buns for extra texture, spread with mayonnaise and ketchup, and assemble sliders with cheese slices and patties. Add optional toppings like lettuce, pickles, or caramelized onions for extra flair.
4. Cheesy Vegetable Pasta Bake
A hearty pasta dish loaded with vegetables and creamy, cheesy goodness. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Cook 300g pasta and 2 cups mixed vegetables until tender, then drain. Make a roux with 2 tablespoon butter and 2 tablespoon flour, whisk in 2 cups milk, and stir until thickened. Add half of 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese to create a smooth, velvety sauce. Combine with pasta and veggies, transfer to a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20 minutes until golden and bubbling.
5. BBQ Chicken Wraps
Smoky, tangy wraps good for all ages and quick to prepare. Toss 2 cups shredded cooked chicken with 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, adding a pinch of paprika for extra flavor if desired. Spread 1/4 cup mayonnaise evenly on 4 tortilla wraps, layer with 1 cup fresh, crisp shredded lettuce, and spoon the BBQ chicken mixture on top. Roll the wraps tightly, ensuring the filling stays in place, and slice them in half for easy serving. Serve with a side of coleslaw or potato wedges for a complete meal.
6. Veggie Quesadillas
A cheesy way to enjoy vegetables in a quick and satisfying meal. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet and cook 1 cup diced bell peppers and 1/2 cup diced onion until soft and slightly caramelized. Place a tortilla in a clean skillet, sprinkle with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, evenly layer the cooked veggies, and top with another tortilla. Cook on medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and the cheese is melted. Slice into wedges and serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.
7. Homemade Fish Fingers
A crispy, healthier take on a favorite that’s easy to prepare. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Coat 500g white fish strips in flour, dip in 2 beaten eggs, and roll in 1 cup breadcrumbs mixed with a pinch of paprika for added flavor. Arrange the strips on a lined baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and flaky. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar or aioli.
8. Chicken and Spinach Lasagna
A hearty layered dish with a creamy twist. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). In a skillet, Cook 2 cups spinach with 1 tablespoon olive oil until wilted. Mix 500g cooked diced chicken, 1 cup ricotta, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor. In a greased dish, layer 6 lasagna sheets, chicken mixture, spinach, and 2 cups marinara sauce. Repeat layers, ending with mozzarella on top. Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbling.
9. Cheesy Beef and Spinach Meatballs
A hidden-veggie classic that’s both nutritious and flavorful. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Mix 500g ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach, 1 beaten egg, and 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella, seasoning with a pinch of garlic powder and salt. Form into evenly sized balls and place on a lined baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes until golden and cooked through. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping or over pasta for a hearty meal.
10. Margherita Flatbread
A simple yet flavorful pizza alternative good for any occasion. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Spread 1/2 cup tomato sauce evenly over 4 flatbreads, layer with 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese slices, and scatter fresh basil leaves on top for a fragrant finish. Place on a baking tray and bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze for added flavor.
11. Loaded Baked Potatoes
Customizable and filling, good for any meal. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake 4 large potatoes for 1 hour or until tender. Cut open, fluff the insides with a fork, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Top with 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 cup shredded cheese, 1 cup cooked diced chicken or beef, and 1/4 cup chopped green onions. Add optional toppings like crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
12. Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
A simple and hearty classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Cook 300g spaghetti according to package instructions fragrant. In a skillet, cook 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in olive oil until fragrant, then add 500g ground beef and cook until browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano. Stir in 2 cups tomato sauce and let simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor. Serve over spaghetti, garnished with freshly grated cheese and chopped parsley.
13. Baked Chicken Parmesan
A crispy, cheesy chicken dish good for any occasion. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Coat 4 chicken breasts with a mixture of 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of Italian seasoning for extra flavor. Bake on a greased tray for 20 minutes until golden. Top each chicken breast with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese, then bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and melted. Serve with spaghetti or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
14. Mac and Cheese Muffins
A portable take on mac and cheese that’s good for snacks or lunchboxes. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Mix 300g cooked elbow macaroni, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup milk, and 2 beaten eggs, seasoning with a pinch of salt and paprika for added flavor. Spoon the mixture into a greased muffin tin, filling each cup evenly. Top with 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for a crispy finish and bake for 20 minutes until golden and set. Let cool slightly before serving for easy handling.