When it comes to feeding toddlers, mealtime can be a daunting task. Many young children are notoriously finicky eaters, refusing to try new foods and sticking to what they know and love. As parents, we want our little ones to have access to a balanced diet that will fuel their growth and development, but it’s hard to find recipes that both kids and adults will enjoy.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of 20 nutritious toddler recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From sweet treats like banana oatmeal pancakes and apple cinnamon oat bars, to savory dishes like soft veggie-packed meatballs and cheesy broccoli bites, these recipes are all kid-friendly and packed with nutrients. In this article, we’ll share our top picks for meals and snacks that will make mealtime a breeze – and leave your toddler asking for seconds!
Banana Oatmeal Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast by whipping up a batch of Banana Oatmeal Pancakes! These fluffy pancakes are packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, the wholesomeness of rolled oats, and a hint of warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bananas, oats, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and blend until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface. Flip and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato and Carrot Mash
This vibrant side dish is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. With its creamy texture and pop of color, it’s sure to elevate any meal!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place sweet potatoes and carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Mash together butter, heavy cream or milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
6. Add roasted sweet potatoes and carrots to the bowl and mash until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mini Spinach and Cheese Quesadillas
These bite-sized quesadillas are a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer, packed with the goodness of spinach and melted cheese. Perfect for parties or just a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: salsa, sour cream, and cilantro for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped spinach and shredded cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 of the spinach-cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also lightly browned.
7. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
8. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Avocado and Banana Yogurt Smoothie
A creamy and refreshing blend of avocado, banana, and yogurt, perfect for a hot summer day or as a quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1 medium banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the avocado, banana, and yogurt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey if desired for extra sweetness.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Yield: 1 serving (approximately 12 oz)
Soft Veggie-packed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this recipe that combines tender beef with a medley of sautéed vegetables, creating a flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, bell pepper, zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, and oregano.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Use wet hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oat Bars
These chewy bars are perfect for a cold winter morning, filled with the sweet and spicy flavors of apple and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups diced apples (about 2-3 apples)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; stir until a dough forms.
4. Fold in diced apples and cinnamon.
5. Press dough into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with a rich and creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Add roasted squash puree and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss cooked spaghetti in the creamy sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering. Crunchy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, you’ll love the combination of flavors in these easy-to-make bites.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, florets only
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together broccoli florets and shredded cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and panko breadcrumbs. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the broccoli-cheese mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Then, roll each ball in the egg-panko mixture to coat.
5. Place coated bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each bite.
6. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Roll-ups
A classic combination of creamy peanut butter and ripe bananas wrapped in a crispy tortilla, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snack time or as a quick dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bananas
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 4-6 whole wheat tortillas
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, slice the bananas into 1-inch pieces.
2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of peanut butter on each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Arrange 2-3 banana slices on one half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half over the filling to form a triangle or roll shape.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients and serve.
Cooking Time: None! These roll-ups are ready to eat as is.
Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe is a game-changer for parents looking to sneak some extra veggies into their kids’ meals. The hidden broccoli florets add a boost of nutrition without affecting the dish’s flavor or texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup steamed broccoli florets (about 3-4 cups fresh)
– 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 saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Add steamed broccoli florets and stir until well combined.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Turkey and Veggie Muffins
These bite-sized treats are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a perfect snack or breakfast option for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup diced cooked turkey breast
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and parsley.
3. In another bowl, mix together turkey, cheese, frozen vegetables, egg, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blueberry Yogurt Parfait
A sweet and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days, this blueberry yogurt parfait is a simple yet satisfying treat. Layered with creamy yogurt, sweet blueberries, and crunchy granola, it’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with half of the blueberries, followed by half of the granola.
4. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of yogurt on top.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only!)
Enjoy your delicious Blueberry Yogurt Parfait!
Soft Carrot and Zucchini Fritters
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional fritters, these soft and fluffy treats are perfect for a quick snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated carrots and zucchini.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the carrot mixture and stir until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix with milk.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total cooking time. Serve immediately or reheat in the oven if needed.
Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of plant-based protein, fiber-rich sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices, making it a nutritious and delicious meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the lentils, sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and diced tomatoes. Stir well.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin and Apple Puree
This simple recipe combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and apple to create a deliciously smooth puree perfect for snacking, baking, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss pumpkin and apple with honey, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Transfer to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Whole Wheat Banana Bread
Bananas are a great way to add natural sweetness and moisture to your baked goods. This whole wheat banana bread recipe combines the best of both worlds, using ripe bananas and hearty whole wheat flour for a nutritious and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, and eggs. Mix well.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
4. Stir in melted butter and vanilla extract.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Cauliflower and Cheese Tots
These crispy cauliflower bites are smothered in a creamy cheese sauce, making for a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional tater tots. Perfect as a snack or side dish, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings such as garlic powder or paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove the leaves, stem, and florets.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles tater tots.
4. In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add the olive oil to the breadcrumb mixture and stir until crumbly.
6. Toss the cauliflower “tots” with the breadcrumb mixture until coated.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Strawberry Chia Pudding
Rejuvenate your morning with a sweet and nutritious treat that’s bursting with strawberry flavor! This simple recipe combines chia seeds, yogurt, and fresh strawberries to create a creamy and refreshing breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and honey/maple syrup until well combined.
2. Add the Greek yogurt and stir until smooth.
3. Fold in the sliced strawberries and vanilla extract.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional sliced strawberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 4+ hours (refrigeration)
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Strawberry Chia Pudding!
Mini Chicken and Veggie Nuggets
These bite-sized nuggets are a healthier twist on traditional chicken nuggets, packed with flavor and nutrients from added veggies. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they’re easy to make and fun to eat!
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup mixed veggies (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers), finely chopped
• 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, veggies, and egg.
3. Add breadcrumbs and mix until just combined.
4. Use your hands or a spoon to shape into small nuggets.
5. Place nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa and Veggie Patties
These flavorful patties are perfect as a sandwich filling, served with a side salad or enjoyed as a snack on their own. Made with nutritious quinoa and a variety of colorful vegetables, this recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of fiber and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings such as paprika, cumin, or chili powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped onion, grated zucchini, grated carrot, minced garlic, and egg. Mix well to combine.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper to the mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
5. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the perfect recipes to feed your picky toddler with these 20 nutritious options. From Banana Oatmeal Pancakes and Sweet Potato and Carrot Mash, to Soft Veggie-packed Meatballs and Whole Wheat Banana Bread, these delicious dishes are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, fun and creative twists like Avocado and Banana Yogurt Smoothie and Peanut Butter Banana Roll-ups will have your little one asking for more. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a healthy meal option, this collection of recipes has got you covered.
