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17 Recipes for Picky Toddlers

Posted by Ashley

on Aug 24, 2023, Updated Sep 12, 2023

As a parent, you know the struggle of dealing with picky eaters and the challenge of introducing new foods to your little ones. Picky eating is a common phase among toddlers, but don’t worry, you’re not alone! At Real Little Meals, we understand the importance of providing healthy and delicious options for your tiny tots. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 20 fantastic recipes that will make mealtime with your picky toddlers a breeze.

1. Chicken Nugget Dippers with Sweet Potato Fries: A great way to get your picky eater to enjoy veggies! Bake sweet potato fries alongside homemade chicken nuggets for a finger-food feast.
2. Tomato Sauce Pasta Power: Incorporate new foods into a classic favorite by mixing diced veggies like carrots and bell peppers into your tomato sauce. Your toddler won’t even notice!
3. Peanut Butter Banana Bites: Turn peanut butter into a healthy snack by spreading it on banana slices. It’s a toddler-friendly treat packed with good fats and natural sweetness.
4. Creamy Sweet Potato Mac ‘n’ Cheese: Swap out regular macaroni with whole grain pasta and sneak in pureed sweet potatoes for added nutrition. Top with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese for an extra touch of deliciousness.
5. Mini Veggie Tater Tots: These tots are loaded with minced veggies like broccoli, carrots, and green beans. Baked to perfection, they’re a great option for little ones to enjoy a variety of foods.
6. Nut Butter and Fruit Quesadillas: Spread almond or cashew butter on whole grain tortillas and add thin slices of fresh fruits like strawberries or apple. Fold and warm for a delightful, healthy quesadilla.
7. Toddler-Friendly Taco Night: Let your picky toddler build their own taco using lean ground beef, whole grain tortillas, and an assortment of toppings. A fun and interactive dinner table experience!
8. Veggie-Packed Mini Meatballs: Mix finely chopped veggies into your meatball mixture for added nutrition. Serve with a side of whole grain toast and a dollop of tomato sauce for dipping.
9. Cheesy Broccoli Bites: Steam and finely chop broccoli, mix it with cream cheese and cheddar, then bake into bite-sized snacks. Perfect for encouraging your picky eater to enjoy their greens!
10. Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew: Let your slow cooker do the work! Combine lean chicken, a variety of colorful veggies, and a splash of low-sodium soy sauce for a nutritious meal.
11. Homemade Mini Pizzas: Create a DIY pizza station with whole grain English muffins, tomato sauce, and an array of toppings like diced bell peppers, olives, and even a little bit of spinach.
12. Banana-Coconut Pancakes: Use whole grain flour and coconut milk to make fluffy pancakes. Add slices of banana to the batter for extra sweetness, and serve with a drizzle of pure maple syrup.
13. Zucchini Noodles with Creamy Lemon Sauce: Introduce your picky toddler to the world of “zoodles” – spiralized zucchini noodles. Toss them in a creamy sauce made with a touch of lemon juice and sour cream.
14. Veggie-Loaded Mini Quiches: Whip up mini quiches with whole eggs and plenty of chopped veggies like bell peppers, green beans, and spinach. These are perfect for quick snacks or breakfast.
15. DIY Fruit Parfait: Layer whole milk yogurt, fresh fruits like berries and sliced kiwi, and a sprinkle of whole grain granola for a colorful and nutritious parfait.
16. Baked Mini Meatloaves: Prepare mini meatloaves with lean ground beef and finely minced green beans. Top with a blend of Parmesan and cheddar cheese for a gooey finish.
17. Homemade Fruit Ice Cream: Blend frozen bananas with a splash of coconut milk for a simple and healthy ice cream alternative. Let your toddler’s taste buds explore the world of frozen treats.

Remember, introducing new foods to your picky toddler takes time and patience. The key is to offer a variety of foods in different ways, while making mealtime enjoyable for everyone at the dinner table. These recipes are designed to make healthy eating habits fun and delicious, so you can create memorable family meals that benefit the entire family. And if all else fails, remember that trying new recipes and finding what works best for your child’s meals is a process – the most important thing is to keep encouraging them to explore new flavors and textures.

So whether you’re preparing meals for young toddlers, busy weeknights, or family dinners, these recipes are sure to become staples in your home. From savory to sweet, finger foods to wholesome meals, our list covers a range of options to cater to even the fussiest eaters. Start incorporating these easy toddler meal ideas into your routine, and watch as your picky toddler begins to embrace a wider variety of nutritious foods with delight!