Are you tired of hearing your kids say “I don’t like pasta” or asking for the same old mac and cheese every day? Look no further! We’ve got 20 deliciously easy and fun kid-friendly pasta recipes that are sure to become family favorites. From classic comfort foods to healthier options, these recipes are perfect for picky eaters and busy parents alike.
In this article, we’ll take a tour of the world of pasta and show you how to make mealtime a breeze with our simple and tasty recipes. Whether your kids love cheese, veggies, or meatballs, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and watch your little ones devour their favorite dishes.
Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This creamy, cheesy macaroni dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hidden Veggie Spaghetti Sauce
Add a boost of nutrients to your pasta dishes with this creamy and flavorful spaghetti sauce that hides finely chopped veggies from kids (and adults!) alike. This recipe is perfect for sneaking in some extra veggies without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked carrots, pureed
– 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, pureed carrots, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Gradually add the broth, stirring to combine.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Butterfly-Shaped Pasta with Peas
This colorful dish brings a touch of whimsy to your mealtime routine. Tender butterfly-shaped pasta is tossed with sweet and tender peas, creating a delightful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz butterfly-shaped pasta
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the peas and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the pan with the peas. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rainbow Veggie Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad is a perfect combination of colors, textures, and flavors, making it an ideal side dish or light lunch. With its medley of roasted vegetables, pasta, and tangy dressing, this recipe is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 2 cups mixed colorful bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, carrots, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted vegetables, cooked pasta, and chopped parsley.
5. Whisk together apple cider vinegar and a pinch of salt. Pour over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Meatball Pasta Bake
Mini Meatball Pasta Bake: A Deliciously Easy Weeknight Meal!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni, or macaroni)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
5. Place cooked pasta in a large baking dish. Arrange meatballs on top of the pasta.
6. Drizzle crushed tomatoes and olive oil evenly over the meatballs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Alphabet Pasta Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Alphabet Pasta Soup, perfect for any occasion! This recipe is easy to make and fun to eat, especially for kids who love the shape of the pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup alphabet pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
– 1/2 cup diced celery
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the carrots, celery, onion, and pasta. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Creamy Avocado Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and deliciously healthy recipe that combines the richness of avocado with the comfort of al dente noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine mashed avocado, heavy cream, garlic, and basil. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the avocado cream sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pizza Pasta Casserole
Combine the best of both worlds with this pizza-inspired pasta casserole, featuring spaghetti, marinara sauce, and a blend of melted mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 lb ground beef (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef (if using) over medium-high heat until browned; drain excess fat.
4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with cooked ground beef.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked spaghetti, meat sauce mixture, and shredded cheese.
6. Top with chopped parsley and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes to melt the cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Peanut Butter Noodles
This recipe is a creative take on traditional pasta dishes, combining the richness of peanut butter with the comfort of noodles. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and easy-to-make meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and sliced almonds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and garlic powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and creamy.
3. Add cooked noodles to the peanut butter mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and sliced almonds, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taco Pasta Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional pasta with this Taco Pasta Skillet recipe! This one-pot wonder combines the comfort of pasta, the spice of tacos, and the convenience of a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp. cumin
– 1/2 tsp. chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz. shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, and shredded cheese; stir until well combined.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Savor a comforting, indulgent pasta dish with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of chicken, garlic, and creamy Alfredo sauce all in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and heated through.
5. Add the cooked fettuccine to the pot, tossing to combine with the sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Hidden Carrot Sauce
This creamy pasta dish is a game-changer for those who don’t typically enjoy vegetables in their sauces. The carrots are blended so smoothly that you won’t even notice they’re there, but the added nutrition and flavor will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 large carrots
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked carrots, butter, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Blend until smooth.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the carrot sauce until well coated.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Tuna Pasta Bake
This comforting pasta bake combines the flavors of tuna, cheese, and herbs for a satisfying and easy dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 can tuna in water (drained)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (about 3 minutes).
4. Stir in tuna, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tuna mixture, and cheese. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Corn and Bacon Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the sweetness of corn with the smokiness of bacon, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups fresh sweet corn kernels
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook until crispy.
3. Add corn kernels to the skillet and stir to combine with the bacon. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until corn is tender.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, bacon-corn mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
This autumnal take on macaroni and cheese combines the comforting warmth of pasta with the vibrant flavors of roasted pumpkin. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 cups), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cubed pumpkin and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, pumpkin puree, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this comforting and flavorful recipe, combining tender broccoli florets with a rich cheddar sauce and jumbo pasta shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli and onion in butter until tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine cheddar cheese and heavy cream; whisk until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta shells with the broccoli mixture and cheddar sauce; stir until coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tomato and Basil Pasta for Kids
This classic pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser among kids and adults alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and healthy meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or penne)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
3. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the pan with the tomato-basil mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Garlic Butter Noodles
A simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the comfort of noodles, all ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the garlic butter mixture. Toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pasta with Hidden Spinach Pesto
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on traditional pesto! By blending cooked spinach into the sauce, you’ll add a boost of nutrients and flavor without any noticeable green hue.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked spinach, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
4. Toss cooked spaghetti with the hidden spinach pesto sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Funfetti Pasta Salad
Celebrate with a colorful twist on classic pasta salad! This fun and festive recipe combines al dente pasta, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy funfetti bits for a delightful side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne, or fusilli)
– 1 cup cooked and cooled pasta
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup funfetti bits (sprinkles)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sweet corn kernels, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle funfetti bits over the top and toss gently.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get your kids to eat their veggies and love pasta with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make kid-friendly recipes! From classic macaroni and cheese to creative twists like hidden veggie spaghetti sauce and butterfly-shaped pasta with peas, there’s something for everyone. Try mini meatball pasta bake, alphabet pasta soup, or creamy avocado pasta for a nutritious and tasty meal. Perfect for picky eaters or fussy kids, these recipes are sure to please even the most finicky palates. With ingredients you likely have on hand, get cooking with these fun and flavorful pasta dishes that are perfect for the whole family!
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