Finding meals that everyone in the family will enjoy can be tough, especially when dealing with picky eaters. Pasta is a great go-to option because it can be prepared in so many ways. Here are 15 kid-approved pasta recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. These dishes are simple to make and delicious, making them perfect for weeknight dinners.
Creamy Pea Pasta
This dish combines sweet peas with tender pasta in a rich, velvety sauce that coats each bite beautifully. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a delightful kick that makes this meal a hit with kids, appealing to their taste for creamy flavors. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that can turn any dinner into something a little more special, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Tender chicken and cheesy tortellini come together in a flavorful broth filled with fresh vegetables for a hearty dish. This comforting soup is easy to make and perfect for bringing the family together around the table. It’s a delicious recipe that adds a special touch to dinner while keeping things warm and cozy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups
These roll-ups filled with ricotta, mozzarella, and seasoned meat bring the flavors of lasagna to the table with less effort. Baked until bubbly and golden, they provide all the comforting goodness of traditional lasagna without the hassle. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to delight the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups
Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Flaky tuna mixed with vibrant tomatoes creates a flavorful and easy pasta dish that is ready in no time. Tossed together with pasta and fresh herbs like parsley or basil, this meal offers a special touch to dinner without a lot of fuss. It’s a great option that even picky eaters will appreciate, as it balances taste and simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Cheesy Stuffed Shells
Large pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta mixture create a cheesy, delicious dish that is perfect for family dinners. Baked until gooey and golden, these stuffed shells offer a delightful surprise in every bite, making them a favorite among kids. This recipe is simple and can easily turn an ordinary night into something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Stuffed Shells
Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Juicy chicken seasoned with herbs pairs perfectly with orzo and creamy feta cheese for a delicious meal. The vibrant flavors come together in a way that kids will find appealing, making it a standout dish at the dinner table. This recipe is easy to prepare and adds a taste of the Mediterranean to any family meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Meatballs and Sauce
Hearty meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce create a classic favorite that’s always a hit with families. Served over pasta, this comforting meal is satisfying and simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights. It’s a great option that everyone will enjoy, ensuring that dinner is both enjoyable and filling.
Get the Recipe: Meatballs and Sauce
Spinach Orzo Salad
A light side dish featuring orzo and spinach in a tangy lemon vinaigrette makes for a refreshing addition to any meal. Feta crumbles and red onion provide extra flavor, ensuring that this salad is both tasty and satisfying. This recipe is easy to make and a great way to include veggies while keeping things fun for kids.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Orzo Salad
Grown Up Mac and Cheese
This mac and cheese features a rich, creamy cheddar sauce that kids will love to savor with each shell. It offers a luxurious twist on a classic dish, transforming an everyday meal into something special. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner that still feels comforting while being a bit more sophisticated.
Get the Recipe: Grown Up Mac and Cheese
Veggie Pasta Salad
This colorful pasta salad combines crisp peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing dish that stands out. Tossed with tangy feta and a zesty vinaigrette, it brings a vibrant flavor to the table that kids will love. It’s an easy recipe that adds brightness to any meal and can be enjoyed on its own or as a side.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pasta Salad
Chicken and Dumplings
Tender chicken and fluffy dumplings simmer in a savory broth, creating a comforting dish that warms the heart. This easy-to-make recipe provides a hearty meal that feels special and satisfying, perfect for family dinners. It’s a wonderful choice that kids will enjoy, bringing smiles around the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumplings
Potato Gnocchi
Soft potato dumplings create a comforting meal that kids will love to dig into. Whether paired with sage butter or a vibrant pesto, these gnocchi absorb the flavors of the sauce, making each bite enjoyable. This dish is simple to prepare, ensuring that it will be a favorite for family dinners without taking up too much time.
Get the Recipe: Potato Gnocchi
Cacio e Pepe
Simple ingredients come together to create a truly satisfying meal that is full of flavor. Pasta is tossed with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper, making a creamy sauce that kids enjoy with every forkful. This recipe is both easy to make and delicious, making it perfect for busy nights when a tasty dinner is still desired.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe