15 Kids Cooking Recipes for Fun Family Time

Cooking can be a fun and rewarding activity for kids. Getting them involved in the kitchen helps them learn important life skills and encourages creativity. These recipes are designed to be simple and enjoyable, making cooking a delightful experience for young chefs. As they prepare meals, they also gain a sense of accomplishment.

You will discover easy and tasty recipes that your kids can make by themselves, boosting their confidence and independence.

These recipes are designed to be simple and enjoyable, making cooking a delightful experience for young chefs. As they prepare meals, they also gain a sense of accomplishment.

1) Mini Lasagna Cups

Mini lasagna cups are a fun and simple recipe for kids. They make a great meal or snack that everyone will enjoy. You can customize these cups with your favorite ingredients.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need ravioli, marinara sauce, and cheese. You can also add vegetables or meats if you like.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of ravioli
• 1 cup of marinara sauce
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional: diced vegetables or cooked meat

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil water and cook the ravioli according to the package directions. Drain and cool.
3. Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray.
4. Place one ravioli in the bottom of each muffin cup.
5. Layer sauce and cheese on top of the ravioli. Add another ravioli and repeat layers.
6. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Enjoy!

2) Homemade Pizza Bagels

Making homemade pizza bagels is fun and easy! You can create these tasty treats for lunch or a snack. Choose your favorite toppings and get started.

First, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Next, cut the bagels in half and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.

Spread a layer of marinara sauce on each half. Top with mozzarella cheese and add pepperoni slices or any other toppings you like.

Bake for about 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let them cool for a minute before enjoying!

Ingredients

• 2 bagels
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 12 slices pepperoni (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Cut bagels in half and place on a baking sheet.
3. Spread marinara sauce on each half.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Add pepperoni slices if desired.
6. Bake for 10 minutes.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

3) Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

Fruit and yogurt parfaits are a fun and healthy treat for kids. They are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite fruits and toppings.

To start, gather your ingredients. You can use yogurt, granola, and fresh fruits like berries, bananas, or peaches. Layer these ingredients in a cup or bowl for a colorful display.

This recipe is great for breakfast or a snack. Kids can help by choosing their favorite fruits and assembling the parfaits. Encourage them to make their own creations!

Ingredients

• Yogurt (any flavor)
• Granola
• Fresh fruits (berries, bananas, peaches, etc.)

Cooking Instructions

1. Take a clear cup or bowl.
2. Spoon in a layer of yogurt.
3. Add a layer of granola.
4. Top with your choice of fresh fruit.
5. Repeat the layers until the cup is full. Enjoy!

4) Easy Chicken Quesadillas

Chicken quesadillas are a fun and tasty meal for kids to make. They’re simple and can be ready in just 30 minutes.

You will need flour tortillas, shredded chicken, and cheese. Feel free to add any favorite toppings like beans or vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• Optional toppings (beans, bell peppers, etc.)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle cheese on one half.
3. Add shredded chicken on top of the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla over and cook for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown.
5. Flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from the skillet, slice, and serve. Enjoy!

5) Veggie Stir Fry with Noodles

Making a veggie stir fry with noodles is fun and easy. You can use any vegetables your kids like. This dish is colorful and tasty, perfect for kids to help cook.

Start by cooking your noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, heat some oil in a pan. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté them until soft.

Next, toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, peas, and carrots. Cook them for a few minutes until they are tender. Mix in the cooked noodles with some sauce, stirring well to combine.

You can serve it hot or even let it cool for a fun lunch. This veggie stir fry is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (225 grams) noodles
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup peas
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• Soy sauce to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
4. Add bell pepper, peas, and carrots; cook until tender.
5. Mix in the cooked noodles and soy sauce.
6. Stir well and serve hot or cold.

6) Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Making cheesy garlic breadsticks is fun and easy. You can enjoy them as a snack or serve them with your favorite soup or pasta.

To start, you’ll need some pizza dough. You can use store-bought or make your own.

Brush the dough with a mix of melted butter and minced garlic, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that delicious cheesy flavor.

Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 10-15 minutes until golden brown. The smell will make everyone eager to dig in!

Ingredients

• 1 tube refrigerated pizza crust
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Dried oregano (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Mix melted butter and minced garlic in a bowl.
3. Unroll pizza crust onto a baking sheet.
4. Brush with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

7) Banana and Oat Muffins

These Banana and Oat Muffins are a perfect treat for kids. They are easy to make and taste great. Plus, they provide a healthy option for breakfast or snacks.

You’ll only need a few simple ingredients. Ripe bananas add natural sweetness, while oats give them a hearty texture. Kids can help mash the bananas and mix the batter.

Bake these muffins at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick comes out clean.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mash the bananas in a bowl.
3. Mix in the oats, milk, honey, baking powder, and vanilla extract.
4. Spoon the mixture into muffin tins.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.

8) No-Bake Chocolate Cookies

No-bake chocolate cookies are a fun and easy treat for you to make with kids. They don’t need an oven, so you can whip them up quickly. This recipe uses simple ingredients that you might already have at home.

You’ll start by mixing sugar, cocoa powder, milk, butter, and vanilla in a pot over medium heat. Stir it until it starts to boil. Once it boils, let it cook for about one minute before removing it from the heat.

Next, stir in oats and peanut butter until everything is well combined. Then, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper. Allow the cookies to cool for a bit until they harden.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups oats
• 1/2 cup peanut butter

Cooking Instructions

1. Mix sugar, cocoa, milk, and butter in a pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then cook for 1 minute.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, oats, and peanut butter.
4. Drop spoonfuls onto wax paper.
5. Let sit until cooled and hardened.

9) Scrambled Egg Tacos

Making scrambled egg tacos is a fun and easy recipe for kids. They can help with mixing, cracking eggs, and assembling their own tacos. It’s a great way to start the day with a tasty breakfast.

To make these tacos, you will need some fresh ingredients. You can customize them with your favorite toppings like cheese, salsa, or avocado.

Ingredients:

• 1 egg per taco
• 1 piece of breakfast meat (sausage or bacon) per taco
• 1 tablespoon cheese per taco
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Tortillas

Cooking Instructions:

1. Whisk the eggs and milk together in a bowl.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add some butter.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook, stirring gently until soft.
4. Warm the tortillas in another pan or in the oven at 350°F (175°C).
5. Spoon the scrambled eggs into the tortillas, add meat and cheese, then serve!

10) Homemade Pancake Pops

Homemade pancake pops are a fun and easy treat that kids will love. They allow kids to get creative with flavors and toppings. Plus, they’re simple to make!

Start by preparing your pancake batter. You can use a mix or make it from scratch. For extra fun, consider adding chocolate chips or sprinkles.

Cook small pancakes in a skillet over medium heat (about 375°F or 190°C). Once cooked, let them cool slightly.

Next, mix the pancake pieces with cream cheese frosting and a bit of maple syrup. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls.

Finally, decorate your pancake pops with colorful toppings. Try using more sprinkles or drizzling chocolate on top. Enjoy your delicious homemade snacks!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pancake mix
• 1 cup water or milk
• 1/2 cup cream cheese frosting
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• Toppings: chocolate chips, sprinkles, or fruit

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare pancake batter according to instructions.
2. Heat skillet to 375°F (190°C).
3. Cook small pancakes until bubbles form.
4. Cool pancakes slightly and cut into small pieces.
5. Mix pieces with cream cheese frosting and syrup.
6. Roll mixture into balls.
7. Add desired toppings and enjoy!

11) Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce

Making spaghetti with tomato sauce is a fun and easy recipe for kids. You will need a few simple ingredients to create a delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• 1 can (15 oz or 425 g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in boiling water until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until softened.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Combine the drained spaghetti with the sauce and stir well.
8. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

12) Taco Salad Bowls

Taco salad bowls are a fun and tasty meal for kids. You can make them using tortillas that become crispy bowls in the oven. This recipe is great for a quick dinner or a fun party dish.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush your tortillas with oil and press them into oven-safe bowls. Bake them for about 5 minutes until they are golden and crispy.

For the filling, cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes. Drain the fat and mix in your favorite taco seasoning.

Once the bowls are ready, fill them with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and any toppings you like. Don’t forget the salsa or sour cream for extra flavor!

Ingredients

• Corn or flour tortillas
• Ground beef
• Taco seasoning
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Salsa or sour cream

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush tortillas with oil and shape them in bowls.
3. Bake for 5 minutes until golden.
4. Cook ground beef and mix with seasoning.
5. Fill tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, and toppings.

13) Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked macaroni and cheese is a comforting dish loved by kids and adults alike. It’s creamy, cheesy, and simple to make. You can have fun cooking it together with your kids.

To start, cook macaroni noodles according to package directions. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the cheese sauce. Melt butter in a saucepan, then add flour to create a roux. Gradually stir in milk for a smooth sauce.

Mix in shredded cheese until it melts and becomes creamy. Combine the sauce with the cooked macaroni and pour it into a baking dish. Bake for about 45 to 50 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Ingredients

• 2 cups macaroni noodles
• ½ cup (1 stick) butter
• ¼ cup flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2-3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook macaroni noodles as directed on the package and drain.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
4. Add flour, stirring for about 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
6. Stir in cheese until melted.
7. Mix cheese sauce with macaroni in a baking dish.
8. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until bubbly.

14) Smoothie Bowls

Smoothie bowls are a fun and healthy treat that kids can enjoy making. They are colorful and packed with nutrients, which makes them great for breakfast or snacks. You can let your kids get creative by adding their favorite toppings.

Start with a base made of fruits like bananas, berries, or mango. Blend these with some yogurt or milk to make it creamy. For a thicker bowl, use less liquid.

Topping ideas include granola, sliced fruit, chia seeds, or nuts. Kids love to personalize their bowls, making it a tasty and enjoyable cooking experience.

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen fruit (berries, bananas, or mango)
• 1/2 cup yogurt or milk
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Toppings: granola, sliced fruits, chia seeds, nuts

Cooking Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the frozen fruit and yogurt or milk.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into a bowl.
4. Let kids add their favorite toppings.

15) Crunchy Veggie Wraps

Crunchy veggie wraps are a fun and healthy choice for kids. They are easy to make and full of tasty vegetables. You can customize them with your favorite flavors.

To start, gather fresh vegetables like lettuce, carrots, and bell peppers. You can also add some ranch seasoning for extra taste. These wraps are perfect for lunch or as a snack.

Using a tortilla, spread some cream cheese or hummus. Place the veggies inside and roll it up tightly. Cut into smaller pieces for easy handling.

Ingredients

• Tortillas
• Cream cheese or hummus
• Lettuce
• Carrots, grated
• Bell peppers, sliced
• Ranch seasoning

Cooking Instructions

1. Lay a tortilla flat.
2. Spread cream cheese or hummus evenly.
3. Add lettuce, grated carrots, and sliced bell peppers.
4. Sprinkle ranch seasoning on top.
5. Roll the tortilla tightly.
6. Slice into bite-sized pieces.