Nanna’s 19 Comforting Dishes My Kids Always Ask For

When the weather turns cooler, comfort food becomes a family favorite. Kids love these meals so much they’ll be asking for them repeatedly. There’s always something to look forward to, from famous stews to never-disappointing casseroles. Consider your kitchen filled with the mouth-watering smell of a dish you know will be a hit at the dinner table. No more scrolling through endless recipes online; this collection has you covered. Simple, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with creamy, baked casserole topped with golden breadcrumbs and garnished with fresh thyme sprigs, set on a wooden surface. A fork rests in one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Comfort food like Vintage Chicken Divan brings back memories of Sunday family dinners. This creamy, rich dish excites everyone around the table for second helpings. It’s ideal for chilly fall evenings when you crave something warm and hearty. Layers of chicken and broccoli topped with a cheesy sauce make it irresistible. It’s the meal that turns an average weeknight into a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Shipwreck Casserole

Shipwreck Casserole in a black dish with a spoon.
Shipwreck Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Fall calls for classic comfort dishes, and Shipwreck Casserole fits the bill. Layers of ground beef, potatoes, and veggies make it a one-dish wonder. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. The robust flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite fulfilling. This casserole is bound to become a family favorite, especially on those cool autumn nights.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

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Oven Baked Ribs

Oven-baked ribs with onion and garlic on top served on a white rectangular plate.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

When it’s too cold to grill outside, Oven Baked Ribs come to the rescue. These tender and flavorful ribs are cooked to perfection right in your kitchen. The aroma fills the house, making everyone impatient for dinner. They’re so good that even your picky eaters will be asking for more. They’ll leave no leftovers, perfect for a family gathering or a lazy Sunday meal.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

John Wayne Casserole

A slice of John Wayne casserole on a black plate beside a baking dish of the same casserole.
John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Embrace a hearty meal with John Wayne Casserole, perfect for autumn. This dish combines layers of beef, veggies, and cheese for a robust experience. It’s straightforward to prepare but offers a complex taste that keeps everyone returning for more. Ideal for busy weeknights, it’s a meal your family will remember. Enjoy the comforts of home with every mouthful.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A white rectangular plate with slow cooker porcupine meatballs, garnished with fresh herbs.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs’ convenience, especially in the fall, can’t be overstated. These tender meatballs simmer all day, making dinnertime a breeze. Your kitchen will be filled with delicious aromas that make waiting a challenge. They’re perfect for days when you crave something filling and flavorful without much effort. A definite kid-pleaser that fits perfectly into busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Horiatiki Salad

A black bowl contains a Horiatiki salad with blocks of feta cheese, garnished with herbs.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Fresh and vibrant, Horiatiki Salad brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your fall table. It mixes juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and briny olives. This salad is refreshing and hearty, making it a great side or a main course. Toss it together easily for a simple yet memorable meal. It’s a healthy option that satisfies without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

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.

Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with Diner Style Salisbury Steak, a fall favorite. The tasty patties are cooked to perfection and drenched in a delicious gravy. Paired with mashed potatoes or veggies, it’s a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Perfect for an easy family dinner that’s sure to impress, it’s a comforting dish that transports you to simpler times.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home. This dish combines chicken breast with mouth-watering toppings, all baked to perfection. It’s a fantastic way to make weekday dinners exceptional. Effortlessly delicious, it appeals to kids and adults alike. A meal that’s simple to prepare but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Texas BLT

Texas BLT on a black slate plate.
Texas BLT. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Add a twist to a classic with a Texas BLT, perfect for a quick fall meal. This sandwich features crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes. It’s a hearty option that’s easy to assemble but doesn’t skimp on flavor. Ideal for lunch or a casual dinner, it’s as pleasurable as it is speedy. It’s a reliable go-to when life gets busy.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwich served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches offer a tasty and convenient meal option for those crisp fall days. Juicy meatballs nestle in pita bread with a delectable sauce. It’s easy to assemble and even easier to eat on the go. This dish brings consistent smiles to the dinner table. It’s great for busy evenings when you need something quick yet fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Two pieces of Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos served on a black slate plate.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Loved by kids and adults, Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos are a hit. These tacos pack restaurant flavors into a home-cooked meal. Quick to prepare, they’re ideal for a busy fall evening. The seasoned chicken and fresh toppings make for a pleasurable eating experience. It’s an easy way to make taco night feel special.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fall’s here; comfort food is a must with Turkey à la King. Creamy, hearty, and rich, this dish transforms leftover turkey into a mouth-watering meal. It’s perfect for cooler evenings when you need something warming. Serve it over toast or rice for a complete dinner. It’s guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Mediterranean Salmon

A plate of Greek salmon with grape tomatoes and olives.
Mediterranean Salmon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mediterranean Salmon is a perfect choice for a nutritious fall dinner. This dish features flavor-packed salmon that’s both healthy and enjoyable. Ready in a jiffy, it’s ideal for busy weekdays. The Mediterranean touch keeps it light yet fulfilling—a meal that beautifully balances flavors and health.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

Roast Pork with Apples

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

Celebrate fall with Roast Pork with Apples, a dish full of seasonal flavor. The pork roasts to perfection alongside sweet apples, creating a harmonious meal. This hearty dish is a great option for family dinners or small gatherings. It’s simple to prepare yet feels upgraded. It is a cozy meal that showcases the best of autumn’s bounty.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Chicken Paprikash

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm up your fall evenings with Chicken Paprikash, a dish packed with comforting flavors. The chicken is simmered in a rich, paprika-infused sauce that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect for a cozy family meal when the temperatures drop. It’s a quick way to bring everyone together at the table. This classic dish delivers both taste and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

A plate of cooked ground beef mixed with diced vegetables and garnished with lime wedges and chopped herbs. A red striped cloth is placed beside the plate.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Make your fall evenings vibrant with Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. This versatile dish can be used in tacos, bowls, or on its own. It’s full of matching to make every bite enjoyable. The ease of preparation makes it great for busy nights. A fail-safe option that keeps dinner interesting.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken makes meal prep a breeze. This dish combines succulent chicken and vibrant flavors, all cooked on one pan. It’s perfect for those fall evenings when you need something simple yet entertaining. Minimal cleanup and maximum taste make it a family favorite. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

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

Leftover Steak Quesadilla turns yesterday’s meal into today’s delight. Perfectly melted cheese wraps around tender steak pieces, creating a mouth-watering combo. It’s a quick way to repurpose leftovers into something special. Perfect for a lazy fall evening when you want good food without much hassle, this is a practical and delicious solution to food waste.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Baja Fish Tacos

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring a hint of sunshine to your fall with Baja Fish Tacos. Light and flavorful, these tacos are a great way to switch things up. The fish is perfectly cooked and paired with fresh ingredients, making for an enjoyable meal. Treat your family to something different this season. It is a refreshing dish that feels like a mini escape from the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

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