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Home » Recipe Collections

40 Family-Approved Recipes That Even the Picky Eaters Will Love

Published: Oct 24, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Family-approved recipes are the perfect way to make sure everyone at the table enjoys what’s being served, even the picky eaters. These recipes are all about simple ingredients, easy prep, and flavors that the whole family will love. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight meal or prepping for a weekend get-together, these dishes are quick, satisfying, and great for keeping everyone happy without the mealtime struggle.

A stack of two cinnamon roll pieces on a plate, with the square pan of remaining rolls in the background.
Homemade Cinnamon Roll Delight. Photo Credit: Parallel Plates.

Strawberry Banana Bread

Close-up image of two slices of strawberry banana bread on a plate with a fork. A small glass bowl contains fresh strawberries, a banana is placed nearby, and a cup of coffee is visible in the background.
Strawberry Banana Bread. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This moist strawberry banana bread has a rich cream cheese layer and fresh strawberries, making it a perfect family-approved treat. Ready in just over an hour, it's great for any occasion where picky eaters need a sweet option.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Banana Bread

Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Make this homemade Margherita pizza in just 20 minutes using fresh ingredients for a quick and simple meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to be a family-approved favorite, even for picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Pumpkin Pancakes

Close-up image of syrup being poured over a stack of pumpkin pancakes on a plate.
Pumpkin Pancakes. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

These fluffy pumpkin pancakes are spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, perfect for a cozy fall breakfast. Topped with maple syrup, whipped cream, and walnuts, they’re sure to be a family-approved hit for picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pancakes

Carrot Cake Muffins

Carrot cake muffins on a cooling rack.
Carrot Cake Muffins. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Carrot cake muffins offer a great balance of spice, sweetness, and crunch, made with carrots, walnuts, and raisins. Whip these up in under 30 minutes for a family-approved treat that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Muffins

Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake

Close-up of a Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake with two slices stacked at the front of a serving platter.
Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Whip up a lemon drizzle loaf cake with minimal ingredients and expert tips for perfect results every time. This family-approved recipe is easy and quick, making it a great choice for gatherings or weeknight desserts.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake

Swirl Garlic Bread

Close-up image of sliced swirl garlic bread on a cutting board.
Swirl Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Swirl garlic bread is a visually stunning and quick recipe that combines garlic and herbs. A family-approved loaf that everyone will love, even picky eaters won’t be able to resist its simple charm.
Get the Recipe: Swirl Garlic Bread

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Close-up image of three pumpkin cinnamon rolls on a plate.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

These pumpkin cinnamon rolls are fluffy, spiced, and topped with creamy frosting, perfect for cozy mornings or gatherings. This family-approved recipe will be a hit with everyone, including picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade Cinnamon Roll

A stack of two cinnamon roll pieces on a plate, with the square pan of remaining rolls in the background.
Homemade Cinnamon Roll. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Warm, gooey homemade cinnamon rolls in just 20 minutes make for a great breakfast or snack. This family-approved recipe is customizable and easy to whip up for any picky eaters in your household.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cinnamon Roll

Pumpkin Blondies

Close-up image of a batch of cooked White Chocolate Pretzel Pumpkin Blondies arranged on a tray.
Pumpkin Blondies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

White chocolate pretzel pumpkin blondies are a sweet, crunchy treat loaded with pumpkin and pretzels. This family-approved recipe is sure to win over picky eaters and is perfect for seasonal baking.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Blondies

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Creamy and cheesy, this broccoli cheddar soup is ready in just 35 minutes and packed with veggies. A family-approved choice for picky eaters, it’s a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pistachio Bundt Cake

Close-up image of a pistachio bundt cake on a cake stand.
Pistachio Bundt Cake. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Light and fluffy, this pistachio bundt cake has a nutty twist and is ready in just an hour. It’s a family-approved treat that’s easy to make and perfect for picky eaters or any special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Bundt Cake

Peanut Butter Brownies

Close-up image of a batch of peanut butter brownies with a stack of three in the middle, the top one bitten.
Peanut Butter Brownies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Quick and easy peanut butter brownies made with just a mix, egg, and oil, swirled with creamy peanut butter. This family-approved dessert is ready in 30 minutes and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Brownies

Strawberry Pancakes

Close-up image of a fork holding a portion of a stack of Strawberry Delight Pancakes with sliced strawberry.
Strawberry Pancakes. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Fluffy strawberry delight pancakes are bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and take just 20 minutes to make. These family-approved pancakes are a perfect breakfast option for picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pancakes

Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese

An image of corn casserole with cream cheese, ready to be served.
Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This easy corn casserole with cream cheese is a creamy, cheesy side dish that works for any meal. A family-approved recipe that picky eaters will love, it’s simple to make with fresh, frozen, or canned corn.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese

Naan Pizza

An image of naan pizza with different toppings on each.
Naan Pizza. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Quick naan pizza options like Margherita, Veggie, and Mediterranean are customizable and ready in 30 minutes. This family-approved meal is perfect for satisfying picky eaters and making dinner fun.
Get the Recipe: Naan Pizza

Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of a cooked gouda mac and cheese in a baking pan.
Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baked gouda mac and cheese is a rich and creamy dish that’s easy to make and ready in 45 minutes. This family-approved recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for even the pickiest eaters at the table.
Get the Recipe: Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese

One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Straight view of cooked one-pot lemon ricotta pasta garnished with rocket and fresh basil leaves placed in a white plate with a fork on the side.
One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This one-pot lemon ricotta pasta is ready in 15 minutes, making it a quick dinner solution. A family-approved dish that works for any occasion, including picky eaters who love simple yet flavorful meals.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Instant Pot Tortellini Soup

An image of instant pot tortellini soup in a bowl.
Instant Pot Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot tortellini soup is a quick and comforting meal, packed with veggies and cheese tortellini. This family-approved recipe is a lifesaver for weeknights and will be a favorite for picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tortellini Soup

Pasta e Piselli

An image of Pasta e Piselli served in a bowl.
Pasta e Piselli. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta e piselli is a simple Italian dish with peas and Pecorino cheese that’s perfect for a quick meal. This family-approved recipe is great for picky eaters, with its familiar flavors and easy preparation.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Piselli

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

An overhead image of sun dried tomato pasta in a rectangular dish.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is a one-pot dish loaded with garlic, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese. A family-approved recipe that’s ready in 30 minutes and sure to win over picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Tater Tot Casserole

An image of cooked tater tot casserole.
Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

My tater tot casserole is packed with veggies and a creamy sauce, topped with crispy tots. This family-approved dish is quick to prep and perfect for picky eaters looking for comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Casserole

3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

An image of broccoli cheese casserole served on a table with a spoon on the right side.
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A quick 3-ingredient broccoli cheese casserole is an easy and nutritious dish ready in just 30 minutes. This family-approved recipe is perfect for busy days and sure to please even picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Air Fryer Nachos

A close-up imag of loaded nachos topped with melted cheese, avocado chunks, black beans, diced tomatoes, green onions, and dollops of sour cream.
Air Fryer Nachos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer nachos take less than 10 minutes and make a quick, family-approved appetizer. A definite crowd-pleaser, they’re perfect for satisfying even the pickiest eaters at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Nachos

Pumpkin Bread

An image of a loaf of pumpkin bread with the first three slices sliced.
Pumpkin Bread. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This quick pumpkin bread is warm, moist, and spiced, making it perfect for busy fall mornings. A family-approved recipe that’s easy to make and great for picky eaters looking for a cozy treat.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bread

Spicy Alfredo Pasta

An overhead iimage of two spicy alfredo pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Alfredo Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This spicy Alfredo sauce recipe, made with a creamy red pepper base, is perfect for one-pot pasta. A family-approved dish that picky eaters will love, ready in just 30 minutes for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Alfredo Pasta

Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Top view of Pumpkin Bundt Cake.
Pumpkin Bundt Cake. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pumpkin bundt cake is an easy-to-make fall favorite, perfectly spiced and topped with a maple glaze. This family-approved recipe is always a hit at gatherings, especially with picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of microwave mac and cheese in a bowl with a spoon.
Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Make quick microwave mac and cheese for a creamy, comforting meal that’s ready in minutes. This family-approved dish is a convenient option for picky eaters who want something easy and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

Pesto Tortellini Salad

A close up view of cooked tortellini pasta salad in a white bowl.
Pesto Tortellini Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This quick tortellini pasta salad comes together in just 20 minutes with less than 10 ingredients. A family-approved recipe that’s perfect for summertime and sure to please even picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Salad

Spicy Vodka Pasta

An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Vodka Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spicy vodka pasta is a versatile recipe that can be made with or without vodka and is great for any dinner. This family-approved meal is perfect for picky eaters, especially for a cozy weeknight or date night.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta

Pasta alla Norma

An overhead image of Pasta alla Norma in a bowl with another bowl of pasta on the side.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta alla Norma features a rich tomato sauce, sautéed eggplant, and fresh basil, ready in 30 minutes. This family-approved dish is hearty and perfect for picky eaters who enjoy classic Italian meals.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Easy Veggie Lasagna

An image of a slice of vegetable lasagna on a white serving plate.
Easy Veggie Lasagna. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegetable lasagna is made with layers of pasta, ricotta cheese, and roasted vegetables. A family-approved recipe that’s perfect for picky eaters, offering a delicious way to get more veggies.
Get the Recipe: Easy Veggie Lasagna

Paccheri al Forno

An overhead image of paccheri al forno in a pyrex glass dish.
Paccheri al Forno. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Paccheri al Forno is a classic Italian pasta bake that’s hearty and ready in under an hour. This family-approved recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please even picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Paccheri al Forno

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

An image of a white plate with a serving of cheesy green bean casserole with a fork on the side, and the casserole behind it.
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cheesy green bean casserole is a savory dish with crispy beans and a golden topping, ready in 30 minutes. This family-approved recipe is a great side dish for picky eaters during the holidays or any meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of two bowls of mac and cheese with a fork beside each.
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Slow cooker mac and cheese is an easy way to get creamy comfort food with minimal effort. A family-approved favorite, it’s perfect for busy days and will be loved by even the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Pasta Fresca

An overhead image of pasta fresca in a white plate with cheese and tomatoes in the background.
Pasta Fresca. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta fresca is a quick dish made with fresh ingredients, ready in under 30 minutes. A family-approved recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and picky eaters who enjoy simple yet tasty meals.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fresca

Instant Pot Tomato Soup

Close up of Instant Pot Tomato soup in a white bowl, with grilled cheese next to it.
Instant Pot Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot tomato soup is ready in 30 minutes, made with fresh or canned tomatoes, and versatile for any meal. This family-approved recipe is perfect for picky eaters, offering a healthy, comforting bowl.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tomato Soup

Broccoli Pesto Pasta

An overhead image of broccoli pesto pasta served in a plate.
Broccoli Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Broccoli pesto pasta is ready in 30 minutes and packed with roasted broccoli, lemon zest, and cherry tomatoes. A family-approved recipe that’s perfect for weeknights, satisfying picky eaters with fresh flavors.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

An angled shot of savory sweet potato casserole served in a baking dish.
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This savory sweet potato casserole is made with garlic, honey, and a walnut topping, offering a healthier spin. A family-approved dish that picky eaters will enjoy, perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

Beans and Cornbread

Beans and cornbread served together in a bowl.
Beans and Cornbread. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This classic Southern comfort dish is easy to make with simple spices and ingredients. A family-approved recipe that’s great for picky eaters on a cold winter day, offering hearty satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Beans and Cornbread

Peach Cobbler with Pie Crust

An image of peach cobbler in a baking dish with a portion of it missing.
Peach Cobbler with Pie Crust. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fresh peaches, buttery pie crust, and allspice come together in this peach cobbler, ready in under an hour. This family-approved dessert is a quick and comforting option that even picky eaters will love.
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler with Pie Crust

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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