You don’t have to worry about your kids turning up their noses at the sight of pasta on their plates because these recipes are specifically designed for picky eaters. With a range of flavors and textures to choose from, you can be sure that even the most finicky children will find something they like. Feeding little ones can be challenging, but with these family-friendly meals, you’ll have no problem getting them to enjoy their food.
20 Picky Eater-Approved Pasta Recipes for Kids
Undoubtedly, one of the most common conundrums faced by parents is feeding their little ones. Whether it’s encouraging them to eat a balanced diet or simply getting them to try new foods, it can be a daunting task. However, I’ve found that pasta is often a crowd-pleaser, especially if you leave out the greens (don’t worry, we’ll sneak some in later!).
In fact, I’ve discovered some amazing pasta recipes that are perfect for making one meal for the whole family, no matter their age or culinary preferences.
Toasted Ravioli
Honoring their cravings for crunchy textures is key when it comes to feeding picky eaters. Many children have an aversion to certain foods, but what about those who can’t resist the allure of crispy french fries or nuggets? Hence these ingenious toasted ravioli! They’re golden and crisp on the outside, with a mild, cheesy filling that’s neither overpowering nor overbearing. The absence of sauce is another major plus, as it eliminates one of the common turn-offs for kids.
But here’s the best part: they can still enjoy them in their favorite way – by picking them up and dipping them in their preferred sauce if desired. This compromise allows both parents and children to be satisfied, and let’s not forget, these toasted ravioli are actually incredibly delicious.
Simple Tomato Spaghetti
Buttered Noodles
Not only are buttered noodles a crowd-pleaser among young children, but they also appeal to older kids who appreciate simple yet comforting meals. Unlike more complex dishes that can be overwhelming, these humble noodles lack acidity or spice, making them a gentle and soothing option for little ones. While they may not be the most exciting dish on their own, buttered noodles are often devoured without hesitation.
This is likely due to the combination of melted butter and tender noodles that creates a satisfying and indulgent experience. For parents looking to add some extra flavor to this classic dish, I suggest preparing separate portions for the kids by melting butter in a saucepan first. Then, set aside some of the plain buttered noodles for the children, while adding garlic, chili flakes, and onions to the remaining portion for the adults.
Old-Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese
Simple yet satisfying, macaroni and cheese is a beloved family-friendly dinner that remains timeless despite its enduring popularity. This classic comfort food is a staple in many households, and its versatility makes it suitable for any occasion or age group. When prepared using traditional methods, mac and cheese can be a reliable option for feeding kids, as it’s often their preferred choice due to its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor profile.
With its characteristic blend of melted cheese, buttery goodness, and al dente pasta, it’s no wonder this dish is considered perfect by many. Moreover, one of the reasons why mac and cheese remains a crowd-pleaser is that it can be prepared in just four easy steps, making it an ideal solution for busy households or families on-the-go.
Super Easy Pizza Pasta Bake
Taking a cue from the classic comfort food of nuggets, pizza is often a dependable choice. However, while pepperoni does add a certain level of flavor, kids tend to favor its saltiness and meaty taste over other toppings. So, why not take the essence of pizza – that perfect balance of cheese, sauce, and savory ingredients – and apply it to pasta?
This dish may appear to be nothing more than pizza on a plate, but with its familiar components of pasta, sauce, cheese, and pepperoni, it remains a relatively neutral option for even the pickiest of eaters. If they enjoy a simple tomato and cheese pizza, they’re likely to appreciate this variant as well.
Broccoli Pesto Pasta
Joining the ranks of fun food for kids who don’t mind getting their hands dirty on the color front are these Hulk-inspired creations, designed with young fans in mind. At its core, this recipe is delightfully simple, thanks to a harmonious balance of salty Parmesan and subtle herby notes from the pesto sauce. And let’s not forget the star of the show – a generous helping of broccoli that’s so seamlessly integrated into the dish, kids won’t even notice it’s there.
Meatless Baked Ziti
Zero in on this delicious meatless option – baked ziti that’s 100 percent free from any animal products. The beauty of this dish lies in its texture and taste combination, making it a perfect fit for families or individuals who prefer a plant-based diet. The pasta is expertly coated with a generous amount of marinara sauce and cheese, resulting in a mouth-watering experience that will leave you wanting more.
At first glance, the presence of pasta might be hard to detect due to its seamless integration with the sauce and cheese.
Threaded Spaghetti Hot Dog Bites
Harkening back to our childhood memories, it’s not uncommon for certain foods to evoke strong nostalgia in us. For many people, hot dogs and spaghetti are two such dishes that bring back fond recollections of family gatherings and special occasions. Kids tend to be particularly drawn to these classic comfort foods, with their simple yet irresistible flavor profiles.
To make them even more appealing, consider adding a pat of butter and some melted cheese or a spoonful of rich red sauce – whatever you choose is sure to disappear quickly from the plate.
Ravioli Cupcakes
Typically, one of the main concerns parents face when serving meals to picky kids is portion size. Children often feel overwhelmed by large portions, leading them to become easily discouraged and even resistant to trying new foods. However, with creative presentation, it’s possible to make mealtime more enjoyable for both children and adults alike. Take, for instance, these adorable ravioli cupcakes that are perfectly suited for little hands.
The recipe itself is quite versatile, allowing you to substitute the ground beef with chicken or even omit it altogether if desired. Nevertheless, don’t be stingy with the cheese – a generous helping is always appreciated! You can find the full recipe by clicking on the link provided below.
Fettuccine Alfredo
Taking pasta lovers on a culinary journey, it’s no secret that creamy dishes are a crowd-pleaser. The combination of rich flavors and textures is undeniably irresistible. For many kids (and let’s be honest, adults too!), Fettuccine Alfredo holds a special place in their hearts. Perhaps it’s the comforting familiarity or the indulgent dose of cheese. Whatever the reason, I’m more than happy to indulge my family and friends with this beloved classic.
To elevate it even further, simply adding sliced steak or grilled chicken is all it takes for a satisfying meal.
Pancake Spaghetti
Let’s face it, who doesn’t love pancakes in the morning? Kids are no exception. In an effort to introduce them to new foods, why not start with a fun twist on breakfast classics? Serving spaghetti-like pancakes can be a great way to get kids comfortable with different textures and flavors. By getting them used to eating what might otherwise seem like a weird combination, they may be more willing to try the real deal – a plate of steaming hot pasta.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Year after year, certain combinations of flavors remain a hit with people of all ages. Chicken, ranch, and bacon are a classic trio that even kids can’t resist. The creamy texture and rich flavor of ranch sauce paired with the savory goodness of chicken and crispy bacon make for a winning combination. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or looking to add some excitement to your pasta dishes, this tried-and-true formula is sure to please.
And don’t worry if you’re not a fan of bacon – it’s still a crowd-pleaser even without it.
Homemade Spaghetti-Os
Just like many classic comfort foods, Spaghetti-Os have been a staple for generations, evoking memories of childhood. While they may be soft and slightly bland, kids tend to love them. Rather than relying on processed cans packed with preservatives, why not try making your own version at home? It’s actually quite simple, and you can easily sneak in some extra veggies by adding them to the sauce.
Rainbow Pasta (With Garlic Butter Sauce)
Brightly colored foods often spark curiosity in children. It’s common to see kids who claim they ‘don’t like green things’ enthusiastically grabbing onto bright green cupcakes or cookies. The reasoning behind this reaction is likely linked to how the color is presented – if it’s a naturally occurring hue, their aversion may be stronger. However, if the same color is achieved through creative presentation, such as making pasta into a rainbow, they might be more willing to try it.
Serving colorful dishes with familiar accompaniments like butter can also make mealtime more engaging and encourage seconds.
Spaghetti Pie
Zeroing in on creative culinary delights for the little ones, here’s a recipe so appealingly presented that your tiny tots will surely devour it with glee! You’ll be crafting a pie crust out of spaghetti, eggs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Next, add an aromatic layer of herby cheese, followed by a rich meaty pasta sauce for added flavor. Once you’ve achieved the perfect balance, pop it in the oven to bake. Just before completion, surprise them with another generous sprinkling of cheese.
How thrilling and delicious is that? Go to Recipe
Cheesy Orzo
Helping kids navigate texture issues is crucial when introducing new foods. A common challenge many children face is dealing with large portions or bites of food. If this sounds like your little one, you may want to consider using orzo pasta instead of penne. Orzo’s smaller size makes it more comparable to rice, allowing your child to take small, manageable bites of cheesy goodness if that’s their preference.
While eating may be a slightly longer process, this adaptation can prove beneficial for kids who struggle with overwhelming mouthfuls of food.
Leftover Pasta Fritters
Just as kids are naturally drawn to foods that offer a satisfying texture, such as nuggets or crunchy apple slices, it’s also true that many children tend to be less enthusiastic about certain types of food, like pasta with its often sloppy sauce. However, I believe there’s a way to change this dynamic. These innovative pasta fritters are designed to be picked up and bitten into, making them perfect for kids who love to chomp on their food.
And if they want to add a bit more flavor, they can simply dip them in their favorite sauce.
Easy Pastina Pasta
Making pasta choices for young children or those who are picky can be a challenge. That’s why Pastini is an excellent option. It’s even smaller than orzo, making it easy to consume for tiny mouths. The texture of Pastini is similar to couscous and polenta, but its mushy consistency sets it apart from other pasta shapes like penne. When cooked with cheese and chicken broth, it becomes a delightful and palatable dish.
If permitted, you can even add some chopped veggies or cooked chicken to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of this simple yet satisfying meal.
How to Make Ravioli
You don’t need a traditional ravioli mold to create these homemade ravioli, as the recipe allows for free-form creation. In fact, two freedoms come with this recipe: you’re not limited by the shape or color of your ravioli. To make it more appealing to kids, try cutting them into fun shapes like dinosaurs, fish, stars, cars, or any other design they love.
You can also use food coloring to give the pasta a pop of color and create red superheroes, pink hearts, or any other vibrant design that sparks their imagination.
20 Easy Pasta Recipes for Kids & Toddlers
Zeroing in on the most important aspect of mealtime, we’ve crafted a selection of pasta recipes that cater specifically to the tastes of even the pickiest of eaters. These dishes are designed to be not only delicious but also easy to make and appealing to kids, making them an ideal solution for parents who struggle with feeding their little ones.
Instructions
Begin by choosing a tried-and-true pasta recipe that you’re confident will yield great results. Next, gather and organize all the necessary ingredients to avoid any last-minute shopping trips. With these simple steps, you can prepare a mouth-watering pasta dish in under 30 minutes!
