25 easy dishes you wish your kids would cook

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Ever wish your kids could whip up dinner without any fuss? Imagine 25 easy dishes that even a microwave would approve of – no fancy ingredients or complicated steps. I’m talking about easy recipes that make cooking as easy as pie, or maybe even easier.

Just picture your kids confidently chopping, stirring, and baking their way through the kitchen. From quick stir-dishes to delicious bite-sized treats that don’t need baking, these recipes are like magic for your senses. If you’ve ever dreamed of getting served a yummy meal instead of doing the cooking, these 25 easy dishes are here to make that dream come true. So, get ready for your little chefs to surprise you with deliciousness – it’s a win-win for both!

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Chicken Fries

These chicken fries are a breeze to make in the air fryer – crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. Kids can handle the seasoning, pop them in the air fryer, and voila, a tasty snack is ready. Perfect for dipping and munching without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fries

Dutch Oven Carnitas

Transport yourself to flavor town with Dutch oven carnitas – a dish that promises a burst of savory goodness. Your kids can effortlessly create this delicious treat, turning basic ingredients into a mouthwatering feast. It’s a no-fuss approach to Mexican-inspired cuisine, allowing you to savor the essence of carnitas without the need for complicated techniques.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Carnitas

A bowl of smoked lil smokies with sauce and dipping sauce.
Smoked Lil Smokies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Lil Smokies

Level up your snack time with smoked lil smokies – bite-sized wonders that pack a punch of flavor. Your kids can create these smoky delights effortlessly, turning a simple appetizer into a taste sensation. With each tiny link, you get a burst of smokiness that makes snack time unforgettable. It’s a game-changer, making you rethink what simplicity in snacking truly means.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Lil Smokies

French Onion Soup

Warm up your soul with a bowl of French onion soup – a classic that your kids can effortlessly recreate. Picture the sweet caramelized onions, rich broth, and that perfect layer of melted cheese. It’s a bowl of comfort that brings the essence of French cuisine to your table without the need for complicated steps. Say goodbye to bland soups; this one is all about savoring the uncomplicated beauty of traditional flavors.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Sliced Smoked Bacon Wrapped Whole Pork Tenderloin on a white platter.
Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

A succulent pork tenderloin wrapped in crispy bacon, a match made in flavor heaven. The savory blend of meaty goodness is a simple delight that your kids can whip up effortlessly. With each bite, the marriage of textures and tastes will leave you craving more. Say goodbye to bland dinners; this dish is here to redefine the joy of easy yet delectable cooking.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Transform your wing game with smoked dill pickle wings – a flavor explosion that your kids can easily achieve. Imagine the tangy zest of dill pickles blending with smoky perfection. Forget complicated wing recipes; this dish is a testament to the joy of simplicity, proving that the best flavors often come from the easiest preparations.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Pizza Casserole in two serving dishes.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Pizza Casserole

Who doesn’t love pizza? Now imagine the same flavors in an easy-to-make casserole. Your kids can whip up this dish, blending the goodness of melted cheese, savory toppings, and a hint of marinara. It’s a pizza party in a casserole dish, and it’s as fuss-free as it gets. Forget delivery – let your kids surprise you with a slice of home-cooked simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Cozy up with a bowl of warm comfort – broccoli cheese soup that’s rich, creamy, and a breeze to make. Your kids can transform a few basic ingredients into a worthwhile bowl of goodness that’ll make you appreciate simplicity. Forget complicated recipes; this soup is a straightforward, hearty option that’ll bring smiles to everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheese Soup

Chicken thighs on a cutting board with tomatoes.
Smoked Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Chicken Thighs

Think of succulent, smoky perfection – that’s what smoked chicken thighs bring to the table. Your kids can make these tender delights without a hitch. It’s all about that smoky flavor seeping into every bite, making each piece a mini feast. Trust me; once your kids master this, it might just become the go-to dish for family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Thighs

Bacon, Cheese & Onion Dip

Spice up your snacking game with bacon, cheese, and onion dip – a crowd-pleaser your kids can whip up in no time. Imagine the perfect blend of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and the subtle kick of onions. It’s a dip that transforms ordinary moments into flavorful experiences. Forget store-bought dips; let your kids treat you to the simplicity of homemade goodness, redefining snack time in the most delicious way.
Get the Recipe: Bacon, Cheese & Onion Dip

Beef Barbacoa in a blue bowl.
Beef Barbacoa. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Beef Barbacoa

Say hello to beef barbacoa, a dish that’ll satisfy your cravings. Imagine tender, shredded beef infused with rich, savory flavors. Your kids can effortlessly master this recipe, turning an ordinary meal into a fiesta of taste. Forget complicated cooking; this dish is all about savoring uncomplicated excellence, proving that deliciousness doesn’t have to be complicated.
Get the Recipe: Beef Barbacoa

Smoked Jalapenos

Give your kids a taste of smoky heat with these smoked jalapenos. A simple smoking session transforms ordinary jalapenos into flavor-packed delights. They can be a flavorful addition to various dishes, adding a kick without overwhelming the senses.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapenos

Chicken cordon bleu casserole on a black plate with a fork.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Experience the elegance of chicken cordon bleu in a fuss-free casserole form, thanks to your kids’ cooking skills. Imagine layers of tender chicken, ham, and melted cheese, creating a harmony of flavors with every bite. It’s a dish that captures the essence of the classic without the intricate preparation. Forget about complicated techniques; this casserole is a straightforward approach to gourmet taste without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Ham & Cheese Turnovers

Ham & Cheese Turnovers are like handheld flavor bombs, ready to explode in your mouth. Your kids can create these savory pockets of joy with ease. Imagine a flaky pastry hugging a delicious ham and cheese combo – a snack that’s quick to make and impossible to resist. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary day into a mini celebration.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Cheese Turnovers

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Experience the simplicity of Mediterranean grilled shrimp – a dish that brings the coastal flavors to your table. Your kids can effortlessly create this seafood delight, showcasing the perfect blend of grilled goodness and Mediterranean spices. It’s a journey of taste that requires minimal effort, making you appreciate the beauty of uncomplicated yet delicious cooking.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Whipped Feta

Whipped Feta is like a fluffy cloud of cheesy goodness. Imagine creamy feta transformed into a light, airy delight, ready to jazz up your snacks. It’s the kind of thing your kids can whip up effortlessly, adding a dash of charm to any gathering. Once you taste its velvety texture, you’ll wonder why it wasn’t a kitchen staple sooner.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta

Smoked ham on a wooden cutting board.
Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Pork Loin. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Pork Loin

A smoky aroma wafts through the air as your kids present a perfectly cooked, bacon-wrapped smoked pork loin. It’s a delicious masterpiece that’s surprisingly simple to achieve. The marriage of savory bacon and juicy pork creates a combination of flavors that elevates dinner time.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Pork Loin

Cabbage Roll in a Bowl

Experience the goodness of cabbage rolls without the fuss with this easy-to-make cabbage roll in a bowl. Your kids can craft a wholesome dish that captures the essence of traditional flavors without the intricate rolling process. It’s a no-nonsense approach to comfort food, providing all the taste without the hassle. Ready to enjoy the heartiness of cabbage rolls without breaking a sweat?
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Roll in a Bowl

Al Pastor Carnitas in a white bowl with tongs.
Al Pastor Carnitas. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Al Pastor Carnitas

Al Pastor Carnitas is a flavor-packed adventure waiting to happen. Your kids can bring the taste of a Mexican street feast right to your dinner table. Think tender, marinated pork with a hint of spice – a dish that’s both exciting and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Al Pastor Carnitas

Steaks on the Blackstone

If your kids want to feel like grill masters, the Blackstone is their best friend. Throw some steaks on there, let them sizzle, and enjoy that unmistakable grill flavor. With minimal effort, they can serve up a delicious steak dinner for the family – no backyard required.
Get the Recipe: Steaks on the Blackstone

Smoked lamb chops on a white plate with a green napkin.
Smoked Lamb Chops. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Lamb Chops

Smoked Lamb Chops are all about that smoky sophistication. Your kids can elevate the dinner game with these tender, flavorful chops. Imagine the rich aroma of smoked lamb wafting through your kitchen. It’s a dish that brings a touch of gourmet to your home without the fuss. Once your kids master the art of smoking lamb, there’s no turning back.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Lamb Chops

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Quesadillas get an upgrade with these chicken al pastor delights. With a flavorful twist on classic quesadillas, your kids can make a wholesome meal that balances sweet and savory. A simple yet tasty option for a quick lunch or dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Tomatillo pico de gallo in a black dish surrounded by tortilla chips.
Tomatillo Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tomatillo Pico de Gallo

Tomatillo Pico de Gallo is a flavorful twist to the classic salsa. Your kids can easily whip up this fresh, tangy goodness. Imagine vibrant tomatillos, onions, and cilantro dancing together in a salsa symphony. It’s the perfect companion for chips or as a topping, adding a burst of flavor to any dish. Get ready for a fiesta in your mouth with this simple yet delicious creation.
Get the Recipe: Tomatillo Pico de Gallo

Grilled Ribeye Cap Steak

Spice up steak night with the grilled ribeye cap steak – a rich, flavorful cut that’s easy to prepare. Your kids can handle the grilling like pros, serving up a melt-in-your-mouth steak experience. Minimal fuss, maximum taste – that’s what this grilled delight brings to the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ribeye Cap Steak

A platter of Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

These smoked chicken tortilla bites are a hit at any gathering. With minimal prep, your kids can create a finger-food masterpiece. The smoky chicken paired with tortilla bites creates a savory snack perfect for parties or a simple treat while watching their favorite shows.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

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