Cooking for a family of picky eaters can be quite the challenge. This is especially true when you're trying to find cheap and easy dinners for said picky eaters.
I've compiled 25 cheap and easy dinner ideas that aim to please even the fussiest of eaters and won't break the bank. These recipes are simple to prepare and incorporate ingredients most of us already have at home.
Many parents, including myself, find it frustrating to make dishes that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Through trial and error, I've discovered meals that hit the sweet spot of being both economical and delicious. This collection is designed to make meal planning less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone.
Table of Contents
Disclaimer: There are some AI photos in this article. I am a terrible photographer and I apologize for it, but that leaves me the choice of using my awful photos or AI. I chose AI.
1) Spaghetti Carbonara
Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic and budget-friendly dinner that even the pickiest eaters can't resist. The creamy sauce and crispy bacon make it a hit.
I cook my spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water. It’s essential to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining the noodles.
While the pasta cooks, I fry bacon in a skillet until crispy. Then, I add minced garlic to the bacon and cook for just a few more seconds.
In a bowl, I whisk together egg yolks, grated Parmesan cheese, and freshly ground black pepper. To this mixture, I add a bit of the reserved hot pasta water.
Finally, I combine the drained pasta with the bacon and the egg mixture. Stirring quickly, I ensure the creamy sauce coats every strand of spaghetti.
2) Chicken Tacos
Chicken tacos are always a hit in my house. I marinate the chicken with garlic, olive oil, lime, and spices.
Cooking the chicken takes no time, usually just 6-7 minutes per side.
It's delicious, quick, and something I can easily make on a busy weeknight.
The kids love the flavor, and I like that it's a healthy option.
I always serve it with warm tortillas, some diced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce.
My secret? A sprinkle of cheese and a dollop of sour cream on top.
3) Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
I love making Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole when I need a quick and easy dinner that everyone will enjoy. Preheat the oven to 375°F to start off. Brown some ground beef with diced onion in a skillet, draining any excess fat.
Next, I stir in some Worcestershire sauce and spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9x13 baking dish. I layer frozen tater tots on top, making sure they're spread out evenly. Bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
After that, I sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts. The result is a cheesy, comforting dish that’s sure to please my picky eaters.
4) Baked Ziti
Baked Ziti is a fantastic weeknight meal that's both comforting and easy to prepare.
I start by cooking the ziti noodles until they're al dente. While the pasta cooks, I brown some sausage with onions in a skillet.
I mix ricotta cheese, sour cream, an egg, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Then, I layer the cooked pasta, the sausage mixture, and cheese in a greased baking dish.
After layering, I pour marinara sauce evenly over everything, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake until bubbly and golden.
This simple yet satisfying dish always wins over even the pickiest eaters in my family.
5) Beef Stroganoff
I love making Beef Stroganoff because it's both affordable and tasty. It's a great way to please everyone at the dinner table, even picky eaters!
To start, I cut the beef into thin strips and season it with a bit of salt and pepper. After that, I brown the beef in a skillet, making sure not to overcook it.
Next, I make the sauce by sautéing onions and mushrooms in the same pan. Once they're soft, I add flour, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and sour cream to create a rich, creamy sauce.
I then mix in cooked egg noodles, ensuring they're well-coated with the delicious sauce. The aroma fills the kitchen and gets everyone excited for dinner.
This dish is perfect served over mashed potatoes or rice, making it versatile and satisfying. Simple and budget-friendly, my Beef Stroganoff is a go-to weeknight meal!
6) Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a real winner in my household. They are quick, simple, and incredibly versatile.
All I need is bread, butter, and my choice of cheese. Some nights, I might get creative and add extras like tomatoes, bacon, or even caramelized onions.
One of my favorite combos is corned beef with Swiss cheese on toasted rye bread. It’s hearty and satisfying. To make it a meal, I sometimes serve it with a side of chips and pickles.
I love that grilled cheese sandwiches can make everyone happy, even picky eaters.
7) Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a classic comfort food that even the pickiest eaters enjoy. I love how simple they are to make with just a few ingredients.
First, I brown ground beef with some chopped onions until the meat is fully cooked. I drain any excess fat, making sure it’s not greasy.
Next, I stir in tomato sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, allowing it to simmer for about 20 minutes. This gives the meat a rich, savory flavor.
Serving the mixture on soft hamburger buns makes for a satisfying and easy meal. Sometimes, I like to add a slice of cheese or some pickles for extra flavor.
This meal is perfect when I need to whip up something quick and tasty that the entire family will eat.
8) BBQ Chicken Pizza
I love making BBQ Chicken Pizza for dinner because it’s quick and a hit with the whole family. I start by preheating the oven to 450 degrees F.
I prebake my pizza dough for six minutes so it gets nice and crisp. Then, I spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce on top of the pre-baked crust.
Next, I add shredded rotisserie chicken that's been mixed with a bit more BBQ sauce. It makes the pizza so flavorful and juicy!
I layer on some mozzarella cheese and a few slices of red onion to add a bit of tang. Finally, I bake it until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This pizza is delicious and perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a fun twist on a classic that everyone enjoys.
9) Baked Chicken Parmesan
Baked Chicken Parmesan is a favorite in my house. It's easy to prepare and delicious. First, preheat the oven to 400°F.
I start by mixing bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Then, I coat the chicken breasts with flour, dip them in beaten eggs, and roll them in the breadcrumb mixture.
Next, I arrange the chicken on a greased baking sheet. I bake it for about 20-25 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
While it bakes, I prepare some marinara sauce. Once the chicken is cooked, I top it with sauce and mozzarella cheese.
I return it to the oven until the cheese melts. This dish pairs well with a side of pasta or garlic bread. It's a hit with even the pickiest eaters!
10) Loaded Potato Skins
Loaded potato skins are always a hit at my house.
I start by baking whole potatoes until they’re tender. Once they’re cool enough to handle, I slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a bit for structure.
Next, I brush the potato skins with melted butter and sprinkle them with salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. They go back into the oven until they’re crispy.
The fun part is loading them up with cheddar cheese and bacon bits. Once the cheese is melted, I top them with sour cream and chopped green onions.
These make for a fun and tasty dinner option that picky eaters love, especially when served with a side salad.
11) Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pulled pork sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser in my household.
I start by seasoning a pork shoulder roast with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
The roast goes into a crock pot with sliced onions and a splash of ginger ale. I let it cook on low for 8 to 10 hours until it’s tender and falls apart.
Once it’s cooked, I pull apart the pork with two forks. I load the pulled pork onto soft buns and serve it with coleslaw and pickles for a delicious meal. The kids love it!
12) Shepherd's Pie
I love making Shepherd's Pie for dinner because it's simple and satisfying.
To start, I brown ground beef in a large pan and drain the excess grease.
Next, I add tomato soup, frozen veggies, and seasoning. I let it simmer for a few minutes before spreading the mixture in a 9x13 baking dish.
I then top the meat and vegetable mixture with a layer of mashed potatoes, spreading them smoothly to the edges.
I bake the dish until it's bubbly, around 25-30 minutes. Once it's out of the oven, I let it rest for a few minutes, then serve.
13) Tuna Casserole
My Tuna Casserole recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s affordable and comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
I start by cooking egg noodles until they're just al dente, then mix them with tuna, vegetable soup, and frozen peas.
The creamy texture is so comforting and pairs perfectly with the tender vegetables.
To top it all off, I sprinkle shredded cheese and a crumb topping for added crunch. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Simple, delicious, and perfect for picky eaters.
14) Chicken Alfredo
I love making Chicken Alfredo because it's simple and satisfying.
To start, I season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then cook them until they're golden brown.
Next, I prepare the Alfredo sauce by melting butter, adding garlic until it's fragrant, and then mixing in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
I always cook the fettuccine al dente, then combine everything in the skillet.
The result is a rich, creamy dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
15) Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a fantastic meal that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy.
I'll start by seasoning the fish with a mix of cumin, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder.
Next, I'll bake the fish at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until it's flaky. I can also pan-fry it for about 3 minutes per side.
To assemble, I'll fill warmed tortillas with the cooked fish and my favorite toppings like shredded cabbage, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of creamy sauce. These tacos are delicious and easy to make!
16) Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked Mac and Cheese is always a crowd-pleaser in my household.
I start by preheating the oven to 375°F and greasing a casserole dish. Cooking the macaroni until just tender is key.
For the cheese sauce, I mix cheese with flour, salt, pepper, and ground mustard while the macaroni cooks. This creates a rich flavor everyone loves.
Once the macaroni is done, I combine it with the cheese mixture. Stirring everything together ensures each piece of pasta is coated in cheesy goodness.
I then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, topping it with extra cheese. Baking until golden and bubbly adds the perfect finish. By keeping it simple, this recipe wins over even the pickiest eaters.
17) Beef Tacos
One of my favorite go-to meals is beef tacos. They are simple to make and always a hit with everyone. I love that they can be customized to suit even the pickiest eaters.
I start by cooking ground beef with taco seasoning. It’s quick and provides that classic taco flavor. While the beef simmers, I set out various toppings.
I like to include shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream. Some family members enjoy adding avocado or salsa. This way, everyone can assemble their tacos exactly how they like them.
For the base, I offer both hard shells and soft tortillas to please all preferences. This versatility is key when dealing with picky eaters. It ensures that everyone is happy and satisfied.
18) Cheeseburger Sliders
Cheeseburger sliders are a hit in my home. They offer the classic taste of a juicy burger but in fun, bite-sized portions. I love how easy they are to make.
I start with ground beef seasoned to perfection. Then I layer it with creamy American cheese. Everything is nestled between soft, mini burger buns.
These sliders are perfect for a quick dinner. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds. They're baked to golden perfection.
The best part is how customizable they are. Add toppings like pickles, onions, or even a bit of bacon. They're sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Cheeseburger sliders are always a crowd-pleaser at parties too. My family loves them, and I bet yours will too!
19) Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a lifesaver for pleasing picky eaters.
I love how you can customize them with ingredients everyone likes. All you need are bell peppers, a protein like sausage or beef, and some rice.
I start by cutting the tops off the bell peppers and removing the seeds. Then, I fill them with a mixture of cooked protein, rice, and some cheese. Bake them until the peppers are tender.
The best part is topping them with your favorite cheese and letting it melt. It's comforting, delicious, and surprisingly healthy. Plus, it's an easy dish to make on a budget.
20) Chicken Fajitas
Chicken fajitas are a crowd-pleaser at my house because they are flavorful and customizable.
I start by heating a skillet and cooking sliced bell peppers and onions for a few minutes.
Next, I cook the chicken until it’s just done, usually taking about 5-6 minutes.
I then combine the chicken with the cooked peppers and onions, letting everything heat through.
Serve them in warm tortillas, and let each family member add their favorite toppings.
21) Lasagna
Lasagna is always a hit in my household. It's one of those meals that everyone loves, and its versatility makes it perfect for picky eaters.
I enjoy preparing lasagna because I can customize it with different ingredients based on what my family prefers.
Some nights, it's packed with veggies, while other times, it's a meat lover's dream.
To save time, I sometimes use frozen ravioli instead of traditional lasagna noodles. This trick keeps things simple and still delivers that delicious layered texture we all crave.
For those super busy nights, I follow a lazy lasagna recipe with just three main ingredients: pasta sauce, ravioli, and cheese.
It takes minimal effort and bakes to perfection, making it an easy go-to meal.
My secret to making the lasagna extra tasty is letting it rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This way, all the flavors meld together perfectly.
22) Vegetarian Chili
Vegetarian chili is one of my go-to meals when I need something quick, affordable, and tasty that everyone in the family will enjoy.
I start by heating some olive oil in a pot, then sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers until they're tender.
Next, I add in diced carrots, sweet potatoes, and a mix of spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
After that, I pour in a mix of canned beans and tomatoes, making sure not to drain them, and let it all simmer for about 30 minutes.
To finish, I sometimes blend a cup of the chili to add a rich texture before mixing it back into the pot.
23) BBQ Meatball Subs
BBQ Meatball Subs are a fantastic, crowd-pleasing option when catering to a picky family. I find these to be especially great for weeknights when everyone wants something tasty but easy.
To start, I mix ground meat with onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, and a beaten egg.
Then, I shape the mixture into bite-sized balls and bake them at 375°F until cooked through. The aroma alone will get everyone excited for dinner.
While the meatballs are baking, I simmer a simple BBQ sauce with ketchup, vinegar, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
Once the meatballs are ready, I toss them in the sauce until well-coated.
I prefer to serve the meatballs in toasted hoagie buns, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkled with garlic powder, dried basil, and oregano.
These subs are a no-force favorite at my home, and I’m sure they'll be a hit in your household too!
24) Eggplant Parmesan
I love making Eggplant Parmesan because it's a great veggie alternative and super easy to prepare.
Begin by preheating the oven to 400°F. While the oven heats up, slice your eggplant into 1/4-inch rounds and sprinkle them with salt to draw out any excess moisture.
After the eggplant sweats for about 30 minutes, set up your breading station.
In one bowl, mix flour with a bit of salt and pepper. In another, beat some eggs. The third bowl should have breadcrumbs mixed with grated parmesan cheese.
Coat each eggplant slice in flour, dip it in the eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange the breaded eggplants on a baking sheet and bake until they are golden brown.
In a baking dish, layer the baked eggplant with tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake again until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It's a dish that even picky eaters will enjoy!
25) Chicken and Rice Casserole
One of my favorite go-to meals is a simple Chicken and Rice Casserole. It's creamy, hearty, and everyone in the family loves it. The best part is how easy it is to prepare.
I mix uncooked rice, creamy soup, and water in a bowl.
Then, I spread the mixture in a buttered baking dish and place chicken breasts on top. I sprinkle Lipton onion soup mix over everything for extra flavor.
I pop it in the oven, and in no time, dinner's ready. It’s a great meal for busy nights when I want something filling yet simple. Plus, it freezes well if you make a bigger batch.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
When cooking for picky family members, it's key to use techniques that make food appealing while also introducing new ingredients in creative ways.
Kid-Friendly Cooking Techniques
To keep meals enjoyable, I often cut vegetables into fun shapes. Cookie cutters work wonders on carrots and cucumbers.
Allowing kids to help in the kitchen boosts their interest in eating the food they helped prepare. We make mini pizzas with various toppings—everybody gets exactly what they like.
For picky eaters, I usually stick to familiar textures. Crispy and crunchy items, like baked chicken tenders, are often a hit.
Using mild spices and avoiding strong flavors initially can make a big difference.
I also sneak in veggies by blending them into sauces or soups—this way the nutrients are there without overpowering the dish.
How to Incorporate New Foods
Incorporating new foods into meals can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be stressful.
I start by mixing a small amount of a new veggie into a favorite dish. For example, I add finely chopped spinach to mac & cheese. This not only adds nutrition but also introduces new flavors subtly.
Another trick I use is to serve new foods alongside well-loved ones. I might pair a small serving of roasted sweet potatoes with chicken nuggets. This way, kids feel comfortable trying something new without feeling pressured.
Involving kids in choosing new foods during grocery trips also makes them more likely to try out what they picked.