Getting used to braces can be tough for kids, especially when it comes to eating. If your child has just gotten braces or had an adjustment, finding the right foods can make all the difference. Here are 21 quick and easy meals that are soft and gentle on new braces, making mealtime easier and more enjoyable.
Potato Gnocchi
Soft and pillowy potato gnocchi are an excellent meal for kids with braces. These tender dumplings are easy to chew and can be topped with any favorite sauce, making them versatile and tasty. The smooth texture is gentle on sensitive teeth, perfect for a quick, braces-friendly dinner.
Get the Recipe: Potato Gnocchi
Ground Turkey Pancakes
Ground turkey pancakes offer a savory twist that’s perfect for kids with braces. They’re soft, easy to chew, and packed with protein, making them a great choice for breakfast or dinner without much effort. This unique dish is gentle on braces and full of flavor, turning a simple meal into something special.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Pancakes
Greek Yogurt Popsicles
Greek yogurt popsicles are a smooth and braces-friendly treat that’s perfect for kids. The creamy yogurt mixed with sweet fruit creates a soft texture that’s easy on sore mouths, making them ideal for soothing discomfort. These popsicles are a refreshing snack that’s simple to make and great for braces wearers who need a cool, easy-to-eat option.
Get the Recipe: Greek Yogurt Popsicles
Blueberry Pancakes
Fluffy blueberry pancakes are a delicious and braces-friendly choice for kids. The soft, light texture makes them easy to chew, while the burst of blueberries adds a sweet, fruity touch. They’re perfect for breakfast or a quick, comforting dinner when braces are making eating a challenge.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Pancakes
Simple Salmon Patties
Soft and flaky salmon patties are a great choice for kids with braces, providing a tasty meal that’s easy to eat. Made with canned salmon and a few simple ingredients, these patties come together quickly and are gentle on sensitive teeth. They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner that offers protein without the need for tough chewing.
Get the Recipe: Simple Salmon Patties
French Onion Soup
Rich and savory, French onion soup is an ideal option for kids with braces who need something warm and comforting. The tender, caramelized onions and flavorful broth are easy to enjoy without much effort. Topped with a slice of soft bread and melted cheese, this soup makes a hearty meal that’s gentle on sore teeth.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup
Italian Meatball Soup
Italian meatball soup is a filling, braces-friendly meal that combines tender meatballs with a savory broth. The soft meatballs are easy to chew and full of flavor, making this a comforting dinner option for kids adjusting to braces. It’s a warm and satisfying dish that’s perfect for when eating feels like a challenge.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatball Soup
Mini Apple Pancakes
Mini apple pancakes are soft, bite-sized treats that are great for kids with braces. They combine the fluffy texture of pancakes with the sweet and tangy flavors of apples, creating a gentle, easy-to-eat breakfast or snack. These pancakes are perfect for any time of day when braces make chewing uncomfortable.
Get the Recipe: Mini Apple Pancakes
Soy Ginger Salmon
Soy ginger salmon is a tender and flavorful option that’s perfect for kids with braces. The salmon’s soft texture and delicate glaze make it easy to eat without straining teeth. This dish brings a gentle Asian-inspired taste that’s both healthy and comforting for kids struggling with new braces.
Get the Recipe: Soy Ginger Salmon
Crockpot Applesauce
Crockpot applesauce is a smooth, comforting snack that’s perfect for kids with braces. Slowly cooked apples break down into a gentle, braces-friendly texture that’s easy to eat and full of warm flavors. It’s a simple, no-fuss option that can be enjoyed as a snack or side dish without causing any discomfort.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Applesauce
Oatmeal Pancakes
Oatmeal pancakes are a hearty and soft meal that’s perfect for kids with braces. Blending oats into a fluffy pancake, this dish offers a comforting mix of textures without the need for tough chewing. It’s a great option for breakfast or dinner when kids need something easy on their teeth.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Pancakes
Sourdough Pancakes
Sourdough pancakes offer a gentle twist on a classic pancake, making them perfect for kids with braces. The soft texture and mild tangy flavor provide a fun way to enjoy breakfast or dinner without much effort. These pancakes are an easy and satisfying choice when eating regular foods feels tough.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Pancakes
Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs
These sweet potato turkey meatballs are a soft and tasty option that’s great for braces wearers. The combination of sweet potatoes and lean turkey creates a tender, flavorful bite that’s easy to chew. They’re perfect for dinner when your child needs something gentle yet filling on their plate.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs
Creamy Pea Pasta
Creamy pea pasta is a soft, flavorful dish that’s gentle on braces, making it a great dinner choice for kids. The creamy sauce and tender peas combine to create a comforting meal that’s quick to make and easy to eat. It’s an excellent option for those nights when chewing needs to be kept to a minimum.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Potato Corn Chowder
Potato corn chowder is a creamy, hearty soup that’s perfect for kids with braces. The tender potatoes and sweet corn blend into a smooth broth that’s easy to enjoy without much chewing. This filling soup makes a great meal on its own, providing warmth and comfort when braces make eating a bit challenging.
Get the Recipe: Potato Corn Chowder
Miso Glazed Salmon
Miso glazed salmon is a tender and flavorful dish that’s perfect for kids adjusting to braces. The salmon’s soft texture and the rich, savory miso glaze make it easy to enjoy without much effort. This simple dish brings a touch of deliciousness to the table without straining sensitive teeth.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon
Creamy Chickpea Tomato Soup
Creamy chickpea tomato soup is a hearty and braces-friendly meal that’s perfect for quick dinners. Blending chickpeas and tomatoes, this soup offers a smooth texture that’s easy to eat and full of rich flavors. It’s a simple, comforting choice when kids need something gentle yet satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chickpea Tomato Soup
Creamy Tuscan Bean Soup
Creamy Tuscan bean soup is a soft, velvety dish that’s perfect for kids with braces. The blend of beans and herbs creates a smooth, comforting soup that’s full of flavor and easy on the teeth. It’s an elegant yet simple choice when your child needs a gentle and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Bean Soup
Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is a classic, smooth, and comforting option that’s perfect for braces wearers. Made in the Instant Pot, it’s quick and easy to prepare, delivering rich tomato flavor without any tough textures. This soup is ideal for a warm and easy-to-eat meal when chewing is uncomfortable.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Soup
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, making them a great choice for kids with braces. Creamy and smooth, they’re easy to eat and pair well with any main dish. This classic side is gentle on sore teeth and perfect for rounding out any meal.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes
Caramelized Apple Oatmeal
Caramelized apple oatmeal offers a warm and soft breakfast that’s easy on braces. The tender oats and sweet, caramelized apples create a comforting bowl that’s perfect for a gentle start to the day. It’s a nourishing option that’s both satisfying and kind to sensitive teeth.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Apple Oatmeal