Introducing solids to your little one’s diet can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the right recipes. As a parent, you want to ensure that your baby is getting the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 20 simple and delicious Stage 1 baby food recipes perfect for beginners. These easy-to-make purees are made with wholesome ingredients and are gentle on tiny tummies.
From classic favorites like sweet potatoes and bananas, to nutritious veggies like carrots and peas, our recipes cater to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal fuss. Whether you’re a new parent or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, this article is sure to have you covered.
Pureed Sweet Potatoes
A deliciously creamy pureed sweet potato dish that’s perfect as a side or used as a base for other recipes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, nutmeg, or brown sugar to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, water or milk, salt, and any desired seasonings.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes (roasting) + 2-3 minutes (blending)
Avocado Mash
Transform ripe avocados into a creamy and delicious dip or spread with this simple recipe. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or topping for your favorite dishes!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe avocados
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Optional: garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or lemon zest for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocado halves until mostly smooth.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the mashed avocado and sprinkle with salt.
4. Mix well until combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (add garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or lemon zest if desired).
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, with no cooking required.
Banana Puree
Bananas are a staple fruit that can be used in a variety of sweet treats and savory dishes. This simple recipe for banana puree is a great way to add natural sweetness and creamy texture to your favorite recipes.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Blend the bananas on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. If desired, add the lemon juice and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency as needed.
Cooking Time:
– 5-7 minutes (depending on the ripeness of the bananas)
Tips:
– Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
– You can also roast the bananas in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes before blending for an even deeper flavor.
Steamed Apple Puree
Steam tender apples with a hint of cinnamon to create a delicious and healthy puree perfect for snacking or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe apples, peeled and chopped (any variety)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, cinnamon, and water.
2. Cover the saucepan with a lid and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and easily mashed with a fork.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Mash the apple mixture with a potato masher or a fork until smooth.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Butternut Squash Puree
This creamy and comforting puree is a perfect side dish or base for various soups and sauces. With its rich, sweet flavor and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and caramelized.
6. Scoop the cooked squash into a blender or food processor.
7. Blend until smooth, adding a splash of water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Peach Puree
Transform fresh peaches into a luscious puree perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a sauce for grilled meats or waffles.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized blender or food processor, combine the chopped peaches, honey, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Continue blending until the desired consistency is reached, depending on how thick or thin you prefer your puree.
Cooking Time:
– 5-7 minutes
Pear Puree
Transform ripe pears into a smooth, creamy puree perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a base for desserts. This simple recipe showcases the sweetness of pears with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat your blender or food processor to medium speed.
2. Peel, core, and chop the pears into small pieces.
3. Add the pear pieces, honey, and lemon juice to the blender.
4. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Carrot Puree
This simple recipe yields a deliciously sweet and creamy pureed carrot dish that’s perfect as a side or used as a base for other recipes. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a tasty and healthy option in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped carrots and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add the heavy cream and brown sugar to the saucepan. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Bean Puree
A delicious and nutritious puree that’s perfect as a side dish or as a baby food introduction to green beans. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the green beans on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with butter and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Transfer the green beans to a blender or food processor. Add heavy cream and blend until smooth.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pea Puree
Enjoy a delicious and healthy side dish with this simple pea puree recipe. Perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses or as a dip for snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas under cold water, if using fresh.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the peas and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and bright green, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zucchini Puree
Transform zucchinis into a creamy and delicious puree that’s perfect as a side dish or used as a base for soups, sauces, and dips. This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness in zucchinis.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the zucchinis and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast the zucchinis in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Scoop the flesh out of the zucchinis and transfer it to a blender or food processor.
7. Blend the mixture until smooth, adding a pinch of salt if needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Puree
Transform fresh pumpkins into a smooth, creamy puree perfect for baking, cooking, or as a base for soups and sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 small to medium-sized sugar pumpkin (about 2-3 lbs)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
3. Place the pumpkin halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
7. Scoop out the flesh and transfer to a blender or food processor.
8. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach Puree
A flavorful and nutritious puree that’s perfect as a side dish or used as a base for soups, sauces, and more.
Ingredients:
– 1 package fresh spinach (about 1 pound), chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the liquid has almost completely evaporated.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the mixture to a blender) to puree the spinach mixture until smooth.
6. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness and creaminess.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blueberry Puree
Transform fresh blueberries into a luscious puree perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a filling. This recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, and water.
3. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries start to release their juice and the mixture comes to a simmer (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the puree has thickened slightly and reduced by about half.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before straining through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove seeds.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mango Puree
Transform ripe mangoes into a deliciously smooth puree perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a dip. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and some gentle blending.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe mangos
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the mangoes into chunks and remove any pits or stones.
2. Place the mango chunks in a blender or food processor with lemon juice and salt (if using).
3. Blend on low speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Continue blending until you reach your desired consistency, from slightly chunky to silky smooth.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Tips:
– Use ripe but firm mangoes for the best flavor and texture.
– Adjust the amount of lemon juice and salt to taste.
– Store leftover puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Apricot Puree
This simple recipe yields a deliciously sweet and creamy apricot puree perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh apricots, pitted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apricots, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the water and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the apricots are tender and the liquid has evaporated.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Plum Puree
Transform fresh plums into a luscious puree perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a sauce for ice cream. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh plums, pitted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the plums, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the plums are tender and the puree has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the water.
5. Let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower Puree
Transform plain cauliflower into a rich and creamy side dish perfect for accompanying your favorite meals. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort to produce a delicious and nutritious result.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, nutmeg, or other spices to suit your taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Transfer the cauliflower to a blender or food processor with heavy cream or whole milk, and blend until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Corn Puree
Sweet Corn Puree Recipe
Summary: This sweet corn puree recipe brings out the natural sweetness of fresh corn kernels, perfect for serving as a side dish or using as a topping for salads or baked goods.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels and salt.
3. Pour the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the corn is lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. In a blender or food processor, puree the roasted corn kernels with heavy cream and butter until smooth.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Oatmeal Cereal for Babies
Start your little one’s day with a nutritious and easy-to-digest oatmeal cereal that’s perfect for infants from 6 months old. This recipe is a simple and healthy way to introduce oats into your baby’s diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or breast milk/formula
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or breast milk/formula to a simmer.
2. Add the rolled oats and reduce heat to low. Stir occasionally for 10-15 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has thickened.
3. If desired, add honey to taste and stir well.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tips:
– Always test the temperature of the cereal before serving your baby.
– You can store any leftover cereal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat as needed.
Summary
Get started with making your own baby food at home! This article shares 20 simple and delicious recipes perfect for beginners. From classic fruits like sweet potatoes, bananas, and apples to nutritious veggies like carrots, zucchini, and peas, these stage 1 recipes are easy to make and gentle on little tummies. Learn how to puree butternut squash, pumpkin, and other healthy ingredients into yummy meals for your baby. With these simple recipes, you’ll be well on your way to introducing a variety of flavors and textures to your child’s diet.
