No whining, just dining: kid-friendly week starters

Photo of author

| Updated:

No more pulling your hair out or pacing the kitchen wondering what to cook next. With 27 different options at your fingertips, you can breeze through the week without hearing a single “Not this again!” Trust me, these recipes are designed to break the cycle of mealtime monotony and give you a chance to enjoy dinner for once. Finally, a way to keep everyone’s taste buds interested and put an end to those dinnertime groans.

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Get your week started right with Hashbrown Casserole. It’s a hearty dish that’s both delicious and satisfying, perfect for fueling up before a busy day. No fuss in the kitchen, no whining at the breakfast table. It’s a total morning game-changer for the family.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Let’s face it, who doesn’t love Pizza Rolls? These handheld delights are both easy to make and perfect for little fingers. Plus, they pack in flavors that kids can’t resist. Start your week with a meal that everyone’s excited about and say goodbye to dinner-time drama.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Sweet potato wedges in a bowl.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet Potato Wedges from the air fryer are simple, delicious, and quick to make. They offer a great balance of crispiness and natural sweetness. It’s a side dish that sets a positive and healthy tone for your family’s week, without causing a ruckus from the kids.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A slice of pecan pie being served on a cake slice.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Say hello to the ultimate Monday treat: Pecan Pie Cheesecake. This scrumptious dish offers the right blend of richness and flavor that leaves everyone satisfied. Plus, it’s an easy way to make Mondays a day the kids look forward to. A win-win for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Vegetable Fritters

Vegetable fritters in a stack.
Vegetable Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Take your vegetable game to the next level with these Vegetable Fritters. They make eating veggies fun and enjoyable, especially for the little ones. You can start the week on a nutritious note without hearing complaints. It really doesn’t get any better than this.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Are mornings a battle? Make Egg Bites and prepare to be amazed. They’re easy to prepare, satisfying, and perfect for on-the-go eating. Plus, they’re a hit with the kids, making Monday mornings a little easier to manage.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

Air fried cinnamon rolls in an air fryer basket.
Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Add a sprinkle of joy to your weekday mornings with Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls. They’re so simple to make that you won’t need to reserve them for weekends. Plus, the kids will practically jump out of bed when they smell these cooking—no more morning whining!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

Pizza Sauce

Pizza sauce spread over a pizza crust.
Pizza Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Homemade Pizza Sauce isn’t just a topping; it’s an experience. Versatile enough to go with a variety of dishes, it’s a guaranteed hit with the kids. The best part? It’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables while eliminating the dinner-table negotiations.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

Cheese Quesadilla

Some picking up a slice of cheese quesadilla.
Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

The Cheese Quesadilla: It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s almost universally loved by kids. Make these on a busy weeknight and watch any grumbling or complaints disappear. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce new flavors to your family in a familiar format.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Quesadilla

Pumpkin Roll

A slice of pumpkin roll being sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Pumpkin Roll. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bring a little seasonal joy to your week with a delicious Pumpkin Roll. It’s a festive treat that not only tastes fantastic but also serves as a conversation starter. Trust us, this is one way to make sure Mondays get a positive review from the family.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Roll

Air fryer Green Bean Casserole

A white dish with green bean casserole in it.
Air fryer Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both modern and classic, look no further than Air fryer Green Bean Casserole. Crispy on top and creamy inside, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table smiling—a perfect start to a week of peaceful meals.
Get the Recipe: Air fryer Green Bean Casserole

Easy Burrito

Someone stacking veggie burritos.
Easy Burrito. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Easy Burritos are more than a quick fix—they’re a lifeline on a busy weeknight. Stuffed with flavors your kids love, these burritos offer a simple yet satisfying meal that brings everyone together, setting a happy tone for the rest of the week.
Get the Recipe: Easy Burrito

Broccoli Casserole

Someone serving broccoli casserole.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Get your kids excited about eating their greens with Broccoli Casserole. Creamy, delicious, and hard to resist, it’s a week-starter that ensures everyone gets a helping of veggies without making a fuss about it. A fantastic solution for Monday night dinners.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who says fast food can’t be homemade and delicious? The 25 Minute Black Bean Burger proves otherwise. It’s a speedy solution for a weeknight meal that kids actually enjoy, making it easier to keep the dinner table a whine-free zone.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Sopapilla Cheesecake

A piece of cheesecake on a plate next to a bowl.
Sopapilla Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re aiming for a touch of indulgence without the fuss, go for Sopapilla Cheesecake. It’s a dessert that can make any ordinary weekday feel like a special occasion, putting an end to any dinner-table complaints. A delicious way to kick off the week.
Get the Recipe: Sopapilla Cheesecake

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Spaghetti Marinara is an all-time classic that never disappoints. It offers comfort and familiarity that kids crave, making it the perfect dish to kick off the week. The end result? A peaceful dinner table and a great start to the upcoming days.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Cinnamon Pie

A slice of cinnamon pie on a cake slice over the remaining pie.
Cinnamon Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking to switch up dessert, consider Cinnamon Pie. It offers a delightful flavor twist that gets everyone excited, even on a Monday. Plus, it’s the kind of treat that makes everyone anticipate the week’s meals with excitement, not dread.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Pie

Potato Casserole

Potato Casserole being served.
Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Potato Casserole is comfort food at its finest. It’s hearty, satisfying, and an excellent way to start a busy week. What’s even better is that it’s a hit with the kids, ensuring a peaceful and happy dinner table that sets the mood for the days ahead.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Veggie Burger

A homemade veggie burger in a bun, on a wooden plate, ready to eat.
Veggie Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Veggie Burgers are the perfect option for a lighter but equally satisfying weeknight meal. They offer a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your family’s diet without a chorus of complaints. Start your week off right and make mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Burger

Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for a versatile side dish that’s simple yet delicious? Try Sweet Potato Cubes. They pair well with a variety of main courses and are a hit with kids. A no-fuss option that adds a splash of color and nutrition to any meal, making weekdays a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

A lasagna being dished up.
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Make a meal that’s both classic and nutritious with Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna. It’s a perfect blend of cheesy goodness and greens that kids won’t turn their noses up at. Start your week on a high note with a dish that’s filling and makes everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pizza Salad might sound like an oxymoron, but it’s a creative blend that brings the best of both worlds to the dinner table. It’s a unique and fun way to start the week, ensuring everyone is looking forward to mealtime, not dreading it.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Mississippi Mud Pie

A slice of Mississippi mud pie on a plate.
Mississippi Mud Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ready to be the hero of the week? Mississippi Mud Pie makes it possible. This dessert is so rich and delicious that it eliminates any room for complaints. Plus, it’s a great way to end the first day of the week on a sweet note, setting the stage for happy days ahead.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Baked Potato

Baked potatoes on a serving dish with sour cream and fresh parsley.
Baked Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s something comforting about a classic Baked Potato. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and loved by kids and adults alike. Serve it with your choice of toppings, and you’ve got a versatile meal that kicks off the week with satisfied smiles, not scowls.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Refried Beans

A bowl of homemade refried beans and lime wedges.
Refried Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Don’t underestimate the power of Refried Beans. They’re a simple yet flavorful side dish that can elevate any weeknight dinner. Pair them with other favorites, and you’ve got a meal that satisfies even the toughest critics in your family.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans

Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes on parchment paper, with dollops of sauce and sprigs of dill.
Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smashed Potatoes offer a delightful twist on a well-loved classic. Crispy edges and a fluffy interior make these a new family favorite. They’re an easy and satisfying way to start the week, ensuring everyone is in a good mood for the days to come.
Get the Recipe: Smashed Potatoes

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

A Copycat Chipotle burrito bowl, filled with rice, fajita veggies, corn salsa, tortilla chips. and topped with a lime wedge.
Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Keep dinner exciting without leaving home by opting for a Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl. It’s packed with flavors that kids and adults love, making mealtime something to look forward to. Start the week with a bang, not a whimper.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Tortilla Pizza

Four tortilla pizzas on a wooden cutting board.
Tortilla Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Forget about complicated dinner plans. Tortilla Pizza is quick to make and sure to please. It offers the flavors kids crave in a format that’s easy to customize. In short, it’s the perfect way to kick off a week of enjoyable, complaint-free meals.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Baked Sweet Potato

Three roasted sweet potatoes on a plate with chives.
Baked Sweet Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Baked Sweet Potatoes offer a nutritious and satisfying option that’s simple to prepare. They’re the perfect starting point for a week of balanced meals that don’t invite complaints from the peanut gallery. Set the tone for a week of fuss-free, happy dinners.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.