Are you tired of begging your kids to just “try a little bit” of turkey on their plate? Do you want to create memories with your family that don’t involve too much fuss or stress in the kitchen? Look no further! We’ve gathered 20 delicious and easy-to-make kid-friendly Thanksgiving recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to sweet treats like apple cider donut holes, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll share our favorite recipes that are perfect for kids of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a busy parent on-the-go, these recipes are quick, easy, and most importantly, delicious! So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember.
Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels
A classic combination of turkey, cheese, and spinach wrapped in a flaky croissant crust, these pinwheels are perfect for a quick snack or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (8-10) croissant rolls
– 2 cups cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1 cup cream cheese softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the turkey and cream cheese until well mixed.
3. Add the chopped spinach and mix until combined.
4. Lay out each croissant roll and spread about 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture onto the center of each roll.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the turkey mixture.
6. Roll up each pinwheel tightly, starting from one end.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni game with the addition of roasted pumpkin, creating a creamy and comforting fall-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Toss pumpkin cubes with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Combine cooked macaroni and roasted pumpkin with the cheese sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Tater Tots
Sweet Potato Tater Tots Recipe
Satisfy your cravings with these crispy and flavorful Sweet Potato Tater Tots, a delightful twist on the classic tater tot.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
- Creamy dipping sauce of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix the mashed sweet potatoes with flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto a plate or tray. Shape each portion into an irregular tot shape.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the tater tots in batches if necessary (do not overcrowd).
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with remaining tater tots.
- For an extra crispy coating, brush the tops of the cooked tater tots with beaten egg and return to the skillet for an additional minute.
- Serve hot with your preferred dipping sauce, if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Mini Cornbread Muffins
These bite-sized cornbread muffins are perfect for snacking, breakfast on-the-go, or as a side dish for your favorite soups or stews. With their moist texture and subtle sweetness, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Mashed Potato Cups
A comforting twist on classic mashed potatoes, these bite-sized cups are perfect for a cozy dinner or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 wonton wrappers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Spoon the mashed potato mixture into wonton wrappers, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the wrappers over the filling to form cups, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Cider Donut Holes
Savor the flavors of fall with these bite-sized treats, infused with the warmth of apple cider and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons apple cider
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, eggs, apple cider, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil, about 1/4 cup each.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil with paper towels and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Yogurt Parfaits
A refreshing and tangy twist on traditional yogurt parfaits, featuring the sweet and tart flavors of cranberry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup whole milk cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt, sugar, and orange juice until well combined.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
4. Top with 1/4 cup of cranberry sauce.
5. Repeat layers one more time, ending with the remaining yogurt mixture on top.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Turkey-Shaped Cheese Crackers
Turkey-Shaped Cheese Crackers Recipe
A fun twist on traditional cheese crackers, these turkey-shaped treats are perfect for a kids’ party or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Turkey-shaped cookie cutter (about 3-4 inches long)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in grated cheese and chopped parsley.
4. Beat egg in a small bowl, then add it to the dough mixture. Mix until a ball forms.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use turkey-shaped cookie cutter to cut out crackers.
6. Place crackers on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Stuffing Waffles with Gravy
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a decadent breakfast treat with our Stuffing Waffles with Gravy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover stuffing
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Gravy (homemade or store-bought), warmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in leftover stuffing until well incorporated.
6. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron.
7. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve with warmed gravy and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (depending on waffle iron speed)
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Bowls
Get ready to cozy up with the flavors of fall in this creamy and nutritious Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Bowl recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup frozen pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Granola, whipped cream, and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine banana, pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if desired to achieve the perfect consistency.
3. Pour the smoothie into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as granola, whipped cream, or chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Green Bean Fries with Dip
Transform your favorite veggie into a crispy, savory snack with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick appetizer or as a healthy alternative to traditional fries.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dip:
+ 1 cup Greek yogurt
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ 1 minced clove of garlic
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each green bean into buttermilk, then coat with the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry green beans in batches for 3-5 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. For the dip, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Pumpkin Pies with Whipped Cream
A deliciously compact dessert perfect for fall gatherings and parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Whipped cream for topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth.
3. Add flour and melted butter; mix until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into mini muffin tin cups (about 1/4 cup each).
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Allow pies to cool completely.
Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Beat cream and sugar with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Top cooled pies with whipped cream and serve.
Turkey and Veggie Quesadillas
A twist on classic quesadillas, this recipe combines savory turkey and roasted vegetables with melted cheese for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed roasted vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions)
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, roasted vegetables, and cumin.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add the turkey-vegetable mixture on top of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also lightly browned.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Sweet Corn Spoonbread
Sweet Corn Spoonbread Recipe
A warm and comforting side dish, Sweet Corn Spoonbread is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. This creamy spoonbread combines the sweetness of corn with a hint of savory flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and butter. Heat over medium heat until the butter has melted and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Stir in corn kernels, flour, salt, and baking powder.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the spoonbread is set and lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Carrots
A sweet and savory twist on classic roasted carrots, this recipe adds a warm cinnamon flavor to bring out the natural sweetness of the carrots.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the carrot pieces with the olive oil, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thanksgiving-Themed Pizza Bites
Get ready to stuff your pizza cravings with these bite-sized Thanksgiving-themed pizza bites!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini pizza crusts (about 12-15)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup sliced turkey pepperoni
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out each mini pizza crust to your desired thickness.
3. Top each crust with a spoonful of pumpkin puree, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
4. Add 2-3 slices of turkey pepperoni on top of the cheese.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley and dried oregano over the pepperoni.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
These bite-sized pizza treats are perfect for your Thanksgiving gathering! Enjoy!
Maple Glazed Apple Slices
Maple Glazed Apple Slices Recipe
Summary: Sweet and tender apple slices smothered in a sticky maple glaze, perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 apples, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the sliced apples to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the apple slices in a single layer.
5. Dot the top of each apple slice with melted butter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the glaze is caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 bunch broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using the water. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chopped broccoli in butter until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks
Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks Recipe
Start your day with a delightful twist on classic breakfast treats – crispy, cinnamon-spiced French toast sticks infused with the warmth of pumpkin puree.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the pumpkin mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Repeat with remaining bread slices.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if using) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Cranberry Sliders
These bite-sized sandwiches combine the flavors of turkey, cranberries, and brie cheese for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 slider buns
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 slices of brie cheese, softened
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Split the slider buns in half and toast until lightly browned.
3. Spread a layer of cranberry sauce on each bun half.
4. Top with a slice of turkey breast, followed by a dollop of mayonnaise.
5. Place a slice of brie cheese on top of the mayonnaise.
6. Assemble the sliders by placing the two halves together.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to make this Thanksgiving season a hit with your little ones! This collection of 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes are perfect for kids. From Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels to Pumpkin Mac and Cheese, Sweet Potato Tater Tots to Cranberry Sauce Yogurt Parfaits, there’s something for everyone. These fun and creative dishes will make mealtime a breeze and are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Try making Stuffing Waffles with Gravy or Turkey-Shape Cheese Crackers – your kids will love them!
