40 family friendly meals (approved by both kids and adults)
Some nights, getting everyone to agree on dinner feels like a small miracle. These family-friendly meals will keep the peace without needing a backup plan. Even the usual holdouts might surprise you.
Quick and Easy Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Instant Pot chicken drumsticks cook up in under 20 minutes, even from frozen, making them a reliable go-to when time is tight. Coated in a flavorful spice rub with options for extra crispy skin, they come out juicy with just the right finish. Get the recipe: Quick and Easy Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Dutch Oven Pork Roast
This cozy Dutch oven pork roast comes together with super simple prep and a pantry-friendly seasoning rub. It turns out fall-apart tender, juicy, and the kind of meal that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing. Get the recipe: Dutch Oven Pork Roast
20 Minute Pan Fried Pork Chops
Southern-fried flavor is packed into these delicious fried pork chops made with simple ingredients and tasty seasonings. You’ll have a hearty meal on the table in a hurry. Get the recipe: 20 Minute Pan Fried Pork Chops
Oven Baked Pork Ribs
These oven-baked pork ribs take just 15 minutes to prep, then the oven does the rest. They’re sticky, tender, juicy, and naturally gluten- and dairy-free, just add your fave BBQ sauce and you’re set. Get the recipe: Oven Baked Pork Ribs
Smoky BBQ Chicken Pasta
This creamy BBQ chicken pasta combines smoky, tangy, and savory notes in every bite. Tender chicken, a rich BBQ-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together for an indulgent yet effortless dish. Get the recipe: Creamy BBQ Chicken Pasta
Sweet and Spicy Korean Chicken
Juicy, spicy, and sweet Korean chicken that comes together in minutes. Perfect for a quick, easy meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Get the recipe: Sweet and Spicy Korean Chicken
Crockpot London Broil
This gluten-free London Broil in the crockpot turns out juicy, fork-tender roast beef in a herby brown gravy with just 11 ingredients and 15 minutes of prep. This cozy, slow-cooker classic is cold-weather comfort made ridiculously easy. Get the recipe: Crockpot London Broil
Smash Burger Tacos
Big Mac tacos might have started on TikTok, but they’re now a family favourite, and the kids love them. Quick to make in a hot pan, these bite-sized tacos are topped with cheese, classic fixings, and a drizzle of homemade burger sauce. Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos
Honey Garlic Chicken
This honey garlic chicken is sweet, tangy, sticky, and made with juicy chicken thighs for maximum flavor. It comes together in 30 minutes with pantry staples and zero stress. Get the recipe: Honey Garlic Chicken
Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
This ground beef casserole is a family favorite, combining browned beef in a rich tomato sauce with layers of hearty potatoes, all topped with a cheesy finish. It’s the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love digging into. Get the recipe: Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
Mom’s Homemade Meatballs and Sauce
These homemade meatballs in sauce are pure comfort food and way easier than they look. Made with ground beef and slow-simmered sauce, they taste like a cozy day well spent. Get the recipe: Mom’s Homemade Meatballs and Sauce
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
This creamy tomato and spinach pasta is simple, comforting, and easy to make. The rich sauce and fresh spinach come together for a dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Get the Recipe: Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta
Beef Tenderloin Tips
Need a last-minute dinner that feels fancy but is easy to make? These juicy, melt-in-your-mouth beef tenderloin tips come together fast for a meal that’s perfect for a special night in. Get the recipe: Beef Tenderloin Tips
Instant Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls
This easy Instant Pot salsa chicken and brown rice bowl is basically meal prep magic. It’s gluten-free, high in fiber and protein, and your whole crew will actually eat it. Get the recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls
Chicken Cauliflower Casserole
This chicken cauliflower casserole is packed with tender chicken, cauliflower, broccoli, and a creamy sauce. It’s like a throwback to the good old casseroles, but with a healthier twist. It’s filling and cozy, just how we like it. Get the recipe: Cauliflower Cheese and Chicken Bake
Beef Paprikash
This Hungarian-inspired Beef Paprikash is the perfect hearty, flavorful dish to cozy up with during fall and winter. Made with sweet Hungarian paprika, it’s best served over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, then topped with sour cream and fresh dill. Get the recipe: Beef Paprikash
Chicken Thighs and Rice
When you need a quick, hearty dinner that still brings the flavor, this chicken thigh and rice recipe delivers. It’s a one-pan wonder that works for busy weeknights or nights when you want something that feels a little more special. Get the recipe: Chicken Thighs and Rice
Taco Potato Casserole
This taco potato casserole with ground beef is a hearty, flavorful blend of Tex-Mex and comfort food. With layers of seasoned ground beef, diced potatoes, and shredded cheese, it’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Get the recipe: Taco Potato Casserole
Tex-Mex Beef and Rice Casserole
This easy Tex Mex casserole is a crowd-pleaser that you will make often. It’s a cheesy, baked dish with ground beef and beans, providing a filling, protein-packed meal that’s also gluten-free. Get the recipe: Tex Mex Rice Casserole
Creamy Baked Chicken Pasta
This creamy pasta bake with chicken is loaded with fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes for a hearty and bright dish. Topped with a golden layer of melted cheese, it’s a cozy dinner that sneaks in some veggies without feeling like it’s trying. Get the recipe: Creamy Pasta Bake with Chicken
Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls
Spicy sesame ground beef bowls bring together bold flavors and savory vibes. With perfectly seasoned ground beef, a hint of heat, and a rich sesame sauce, this is the kind of meal that checks all the boxes. Get the recipe: Spicy Sesame Ground Beef Bowls
Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon
This Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon gives a modern twist to the classic Julia Child recipe. It’s quick, fuss-free, and delivers all the same amazing flavors. Get the recipe: Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon
Creamy Tuna Casserole
This creamy tuna casserole is the ultimate comfort food, loaded with noodles, tuna, and a rich sauce. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that makes weeknight dinners a breeze. Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuna Casserole
Quick Mongolian Beef Stir Fry
This quick Mongolian beef stir-fry is loaded with tender strips of beef and crisp veggies tossed in a savory-sweet sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for when you’re short on time. Get the Recipe: Quick Beef Stir Fry
Taco Beef Rice Bowl
This taco rice bowl with ground beef is a healthy family favorite. It’s a simple meal that comes together in just under thirty minutes. Get the recipe: Taco Rice Bowl
Healthy High-Protein Hamburger Helper
Level up your comfort food with this high-protein Hamburger Helper made with lean ground beef, veggies, cottage cheese, and Annie’s Cheddar Mac. It hits all the nostalgic vibes while still keeping things balanced and packed with protein. Get the recipe: Healthy High Protein Hamburger Helper
Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese
Perfectly cooked chicken paired with asparagus, corn, and tomatoes. These yummy ingredients are topped with mozzarella cheese to send it into next-level delicious status. 35 minutes is all you need to make this easy and low-mess dish. Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese
Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken Thighs
Enjoy juicy chicken thighs and veggies in one simple dish. This healthy sheet pan meal is quick to make and ideal for busy weeknights when you need an easy, no-fuss dinner. Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs
Grilled Marinated Steaks
Grilling season calls for something simple and satisfying, like marinated steaks, which check all the boxes. They’re easy to prep, come out juicy and tender every time, and never fail to impress on the BBQ. Get the recipe: Grilled Marinated Steaks
Sheet Pan Roast Chicken with Potatoes
Sheet pan roast chicken with potatoes is full of classic flavors that everyone loves. Fully prepare it a night (or two) beforehand, and simply pop it in the oven before dinner. Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roast Chicken with Potatoes
Easy Garlic Chili Oil Noodles
Easy chili oil noodles infused with earthy garlic and spicy homemade red chili oil. Flavors abound in this noodle recipe with a spicy kick, creating a delicious dish in only 10 minutes. Get the Recipe: Easy Garlic Chili Oil Noodles
30-Minute Chicken Alfredo
Juicy, seasoned chicken and tender pasta get tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce that basically screams comfort. The best part? You’ll have this family-approved dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less. Get the Recipe: 30-Minute Chicken Alfredo
Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef
Slow Cooker barbecue beef is basically set-it-and-forget-it comfort food. Tender, flavorful, and almost no prep because your crock pot does all the work. This beef makes the best sandwiches. Get the recipe: Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef
Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas
These sheet pan chicken pitas are the ultimate quick and delicious dinner solution. Just roast everything together, stuff your pitas, add toppings, and you’re good to go. Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas
Penne Pasta Bake
This penne pasta bake offers comfort and flavor with its blend of cooked penne, rich beefy marinara sauce, and a cheesy topping. Baked to a bubbly, golden perfection, it’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for both gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners. Get the recipe: Penne Pasta Bake
Crock Pot Lasagna
This Crock Pot lasagna delivers all the classic flavors with Italian sausage, a cheesy filling, and rich sauce. It’s everything you love about traditional lasagna, just made in the slow cooker. Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Lasagna
Simple Red Curry with Chicken Thighs
Brimming with bold flavors, this red curry is spicy, creamy, and deeply satisfying. This easy, 30-minute dish perfectly recreates the authentic taste of a Thai restaurant at home. Get the Recipe: Simple Red Curry with Chicken Thighs
Rich Tomato Sauce with Only 3 Ingredients
With just three ingredients, this rich tomato sauce tastes straight out of a fine Italian restaurant. All you need is an onion, a can of tomatoes, and butter, and dinner’s on in under an hour. Get the Recipe: Rich Tomato Sauce with Only 3 Ingredients
Slow Cooker Rib Recipe
This slow cooker rib recipe delivers tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with almost no effort. Made with just four ingredients, it’s an easy barbecue dinner you can set and forget. Get the recipe: Slow Cooker Rib Recipe
Copycat Crunchwrap Supreme
Looking for a satisfying meal that works any time of day? This copycat Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme is packed with seasoned beef, nacho cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a crunchy tostada shell, and it might even be better than the original. Get the recipe: Copycat Crunchwrap Supreme