Wow! 17 Family Meals That’ll Have You Accepting “Best Chef” Trophies From Your Kids

Clear some space on your mantle because you’re about to become the family’s culinary superstar. With these 17 family meal ideas, even the pickiest eaters will be singing your praises. Imagine serving up dishes so delicious that your kids start planning award ceremonies in your honor. Prepare for the kind of compliments that make all those hours in the kitchen totally worth it!

A bowl of pasta with cherry tomato sauce, cherry tomatoes, and garlic.
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re aiming to impress at family meal times, Chicken Tinga could be your secret weapon. This dish is known for its bold flavors that can captivate any audience, young or old. It’s the kind of recipe that makes dinner an event, often prompting spontaneous applause. Just wait for the smiles and nods of approval as they dig in.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

A grilled steak with cowboy butter on a white plate.
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Imagine serving Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter at your next family gathering. This dish promises to turn an ordinary evening into a special occasion with its rich flavors. It’s one of those recipes that could earn you the title of ‘grill master’ among friends and family. Expect requests for seconds, maybe even thirds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on flavor, Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts is a perfect choice. It’s a fresh, flavorful option for lunch that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. This salad combines textures and tastes that keep it interesting and often requested. It’s a guaranteed hit for any family meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Brisket Fried Rice

Brisket fried rice in black serving dish on white background.
Brisket Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Brisket Fried Rice turns leftovers into a culinary masterpiece. This creative twist on traditional fried rice can be a centerpiece meal that surprises and satisfies. It’s casual yet sophisticated, making it ideal for a family dinner that feels a bit more special. Be prepared for it to become a new family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

Pizza Pasta Salad

A fork with pizza pasta salad in a bowl.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This dish is especially popular among kids who can’t decide between pasta and pizza. Pizza Pasta Salad brings two favorite foods together in a fun and unexpected way. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple family lunch. Watch it disappear quickly, as it often does at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Serve Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp for a taste of the coast that’s sure to dazzle. This dish is light yet packed with flavor, making it a sophisticated addition to any meal. It’s especially perfect for warmer weather when you want something delicious that won’t weigh you down. It’s likely to garner praise from seafood lovers.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Roast Pork with Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table.
Roast Pork with Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Roast Pork with Apples is a classic dish that exudes comfort and sophistication. It’s ideal for a Sunday dinner or any occasion that calls for a hearty meal. The combination of flavors in this dish can make any meal feel like a celebration. It’s a tried and true favorite that can make you the star of your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

4 ingredient slow cooker chicken on a black platter.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sometimes simplicity wins the day, and 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken is proof. This dish is all about ease and flavor, making it a favorite for busy weeknights. Just set it and forget it, and come back to a meal that smells and tastes like you’ve been cooking all day. It’s a fuss-free winner that’ll earn you big points.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Korean Galbi Ribs

Two Korean galbi ribs on a black slate plate with red chopsticks placed beside them.
Korean Galbi Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Treat your family to Korean Galbi Ribs and watch their amazement at the dinner table. These ribs offer a burst of flavor that’s distinctively rich and often unexpected. They’re perfect for when you want to spice up the dinner routine with something different. It’s a dish that often leads to everyone asking for your recipe.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

Tacos Dorados

Tacos Dorados on a plate.
Tacos Dorados. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you need a crowd-pleaser, Tacos Dorados are the way to go. This dish brings crunch and flavor that can liven up any family dinner. They’re so popular at the table that you might just find yourself the recipient of the “Best Chef” award from your family. Get ready for requests to make these a regular feature.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A skillet full of Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe might just win you praise from everyone at the dinner table. This meal combines hearty elements with a touch of greens for a well-rounded dish. It’s quick to make and even quicker to disappear. Your family might just start thinking of you as their personal chef.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A white plate with Salisbury steak topped with mushroom gravy on mashed potatoes, accompanied by a side of green peas.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bring the classic comfort of a diner into your home with Diner Style Salisbury Steak. This meal is a hit for those who love hearty, comforting dishes. It’s sure to spark conversation and compliments alike. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a comforting staple in your home-cooked menu.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Ground Beef Fried Rice

Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner By Six.
Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Whip up a batch of Ground Beef Fried Rice for a simple yet fulfilling meal that satisfies a variety of tastes. This dish is versatile and fast, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. Expect it to vanish quickly, as it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike. It’s a practical way to bring a smile to your family’s faces.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Fried Rice

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Chinese Chicken Salad is a refreshing twist on traditional salads. It’s packed with flavors that are sure to impress at any family gathering. This dish is often a go-to for those looking for a lighter yet flavorful meal. Watch as it becomes a new favorite among your family members.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

A piece of Cuban sandwich casserole on a plate with potato chips.
Cuban Sandwich Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transform a beloved sandwich into a family-sized meal with Cuban Sandwich Casserole. This dish brings all the beloved flavors of a classic Cuban sandwich in a form that’s perfect for sharing. It’s ideal for when you want something a little different. Your family will be clamoring for seconds, maybe even thirds.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding wedges of a quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This recipe is perfect for using up leftovers in a way that feels completely new. Leftover Steak Quesadilla turns last night’s dinner into today’s winning lunch or dinner. It’s a surefire hit with kids and adults alike, proving that leftovers can be just as exciting as the original meal. Expect rave reviews from your family.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

A bowl of pasta with cherry tomato sauce, cherry tomatoes, and garlic.
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce is a vibrant, fresh meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious. This dish is perfect for those evenings when you want something light but satisfying. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner. Your family will likely ask for it again and again.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

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