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19 Effortless Entrees So Good, Even Your Toddler Will Clean the Plate

Are you tired of playing food referee at the dinner table? This list brings you stress-free meals that your kiddos will actually want to eat. These entres are perfect for busy parents who want to make dinner time a breeze. You’ll find a treasure trove of foolproof dishes that make your toddler as happy as they make you. Get ready for peaceful, happy, and most importantly, empty plates.

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Kids can’t resist the sweet and nutty mix found in Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy elements, and bursts of flavor keeps everyone coming back for more. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and works great in sandwiches or wraps. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. You’ll love how quick it is to whip up, making meal planning a breeze. Watch how fast your little ones finish their plates!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

In the middle of a busy week, Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu is a lifesaver. The method makes it healthier while still delivering that crispy texture everyone loves. This variation gets the job done without all the mess, perfect for toddlers too. Just serve it with some veggies or a simple salad for a balanced meal. It’s a hit among the whole family, offering great taste without much fuss. Your air fryer’s new best friend!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Brisket Fried Rice

Brisket fried rice in black serving dish on white background.
Brisket Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A comforting blend of flavors comes together in Brisket Fried Rice, which can be a meal all by itself. It’s both hearty and satisfying, appealing to kids and adults alike. This one-pan meal combines tender pieces with tasty rice and veggies, making it a weeknight favorite. It’s a fantastic way to use leftovers and is easy to tweak for different preferences. Minimal effort, maximum satisfaction. Ideal for busy families!
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

Steak & Pasta Salad

A black bowl filled with a pasta salad containing farfalle, steak slices, radishes, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, nuts, and crumbled blue cheese, garnished with parsley, on a wooden board next to a spoon.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for a nutritious and easy meal? Try Steak & Pasta Salad, which combines hearty ingredients in an effortless way. The chewy pasta and tender steak make a great pair, and it’s quick to assemble. Serve it cold or warm, depending on your preferences. This dish is versatile and fits into busy schedules effortlessly. Kids love the familiar flavors, which means no leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Kale and tortellini soup in a bowl on a wooden table.
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’ve got a cold night ahead, Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken is what you need. Packed with delicious flavors and comfort, it’s a hit among all ages. The ease of preparation will surprise you, making it a go-to for those busy evenings. Serve it with a slice of bread, and you have a complete meal ready in no time. Kale and tortellini add an interesting mix of textures. Your little ones will enjoy every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

A Pastrami Reuben sandwich on a plate with chips and pickles.
Pastrami Reuben Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Need a quick, hearty lunch? Pastrami Reuben Sandwich fits the bill perfectly. It’s got all the layers of flavor and texture that make it so satisfying. Plus, it’s straightforward to put together, making lunchtime a breeze. Packed with taste, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Serve with a few pickles, and watch it disappear fast. Ideal for those who love a good sandwich!
Get the Recipe: Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

Cottage Cheese Toast with Bacon & Poached Egg

Two slices of Cottage Cheese Toast with Eggs & Bacon on a black platter.
Cottage Cheese Toast with Bacon & Poached Egg. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated, and Cottage Cheese Toast with Bacon & Poached Egg proves it. Combining protein and flavor, it’s a quick option sure to get your day started right. The balance of creamy and crispy makes it a hit even with picky eaters. Easy to assemble and even easier to enjoy, it’s a breakfast game-changer. Perfect for busy mornings or even as a light lunch. Everyone will love it!
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Toast with Bacon & Poached Egg

Air Fryer Chicken Fries

Air fried chicken fries with dipping sauce on a wooden cutting board.
Air Fryer Chicken Fries. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Kids gobble up Air Fryer Chicken Fries without a second thought. Offering a healthier twist on a classic favorite, these are a hit at any meal. They come together quickly and bake up crisp and golden, perfect for dunking in your favorite sauce. Plus, using the air fryer means less mess and more convenience. Great for meals on the go or a quick dinner. A win-win for parents and kids!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fries

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

2 Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwiches on a black plate.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Want something light yet satisfying? The Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich makes a perfect option. It’s fresh, flavorful, and easy to put together, making it a great lunch or light dinner choice. The ingredients offer that classic flavor combo everyone loves while being quick to prepare. Serve with a small salad or some chips for a complete meal. Toddlers and adults will find it equally delicious.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Planning a quick weeknight dinner? Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp offers a flavorful and speedy option. Kids love the tasty shrimp, which pairs well with simple sides like rice or veggies. This dish works well for a healthy dinner option without much fuss. You’ll find it’s easy to prepare and brings a bit of variety to the table. An easy crowd-pleaser, perfect for any night.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Quick and satisfying, Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe provides a balanced meal in a single dish. Combining hearty sausage with soft gnocchi makes for a filling and flavorful dinner. Broccoli rabe adds some greens, giving it a nutritious punch. Kids love the texture and taste, making dinnertime stress-free. The best part is it all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Hearty, simple, and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for something fresh and easy? Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp delivers just that. It’s quickly assembled and offers a nice change from the usual meals. Packed with satisfying elements, it’s an instant hit with kids and adults. Serve it as a main dish or a side; it proves versatile. Simple to make and easy to love, ideal for any time.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When time is short, Chicken Piccata is a reliable choice. This dish combines flavors in a satisfying way without taking too long to prepare. Simple to cook, yet impressive to serve, it fits weeknights perfectly. The sauce and chicken work well together, making it appealing to kids and adults alike. Pair it with some veggies or pasta for a complete meal. Quick, easy, and satisfying for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Beefy John Wayne Casserole

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Beefy John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When looking for a hearty option, Beefy John Wayne Casserole stands out. It combines all the elements of a filling meal that kids will eat up. Easy to prepare, this dish fits well into any weeknight plan. Everything bakes together, delivering great taste in every bite. Serve it with a simple side salad for balance. Watch this become a household favorite.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

In search of a comforting meal? Turkey à la King checks all the boxes. Perfect for using up leftovers or preparing fresh, it’s ready in no time. The rich, creamy texture appeals to young eaters, making it an instant favorite. Pair it with some bread or rice, and you have a full meal ready in a flash. Simple to make and great to eat, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe often.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Roast Pork with Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table.
Roast Pork with Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a meal that’s both tasty and easy, Roast Pork with Apples fits the bill. It combines flavors in a pleasing way, making it an appealing choice for all ages. Easy to prepare, this is perfect for a family dinner without spending too much time in prep. The combination doesn’t disappoint, offering satisfying flavors. Serve with some veggies for a balanced meal. Kids and adults both enjoy this treat.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Mexican Street Corn Soup

Mexican street style corn soup in a white bowl on a white plate.
Mexican Street Corn Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for a unique option? Mexican Street Corn Soup offers something different. Its flavors mingle together nicely, creating a dish everyone likes. Easy to prepare and serve, making it fits right into busy nights. Pair it with some bread, and you have a complete meal ready in minutes. Fun to make and fun to eat, you can’t go wrong.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Soup

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Al pastor chicken quesadillas pulled apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Quick to prep and even quicker to eat, Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas make a great meal. Filled with flavor and easy to put together, they’re perfect for weeknights. These quesadillas are loved by kids and adults, offering a mix of taste and convenience. Make a batch and watch them disappear fast. Serve with some salsa and you’re all set. A total crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Baja Fish Tacos

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For something fresh and exciting, Baja Fish Tacos are a great pick. This meal comes together fast and offers a variety of flavors in each bite. Great for a weeknight dinner when time is short but taste is important. Kids love these as much as adults, making them a versatile family meal. Pair with some simple sides for a complete feast. Quick, easy, and always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

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