28 Recipes That Will Finally Win Over Your Picky Eater

If you’ve ever struggled to get your picky eater to try something new, I get it. I’ve been there too, which is why I’ve gathered a list of easy, crowd-pleasing meals that will finally break through those picky barriers. These recipes are simple to make, full of flavors everyone will love, and guaranteed to keep mealtime stress-free.

A plate of spaghetti with ground meat, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped green onions, served next to a black skillet and a white napkin on a gray surface. — Taco Spaghetti Skillet. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

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Chicken Lollipops

A close-up of a hand holding a crispy breaded chicken drumstick, with more drumsticks on a white plate in the background. — Chicken Lollipops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken lollipops are a fun and creative way to serve chicken that will keep everyone engaged. The easy-to-handle portions and crispy texture make them appealing even to the most selective eaters. They cook quickly, so you won’t spend too much time in the kitchen. Serve with a simple dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lollipops

Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

A ladle serving vegetable soup with tomatoes, potatoes, and green peas into a white bowl, with a blurred bowl in the background. — Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This vegetable soup is as easy as throwing everything into a slow cooker and letting it do the work. It’s a flexible dish, meaning you can adjust it based on your picky eaters’ preferences. The long cooking time allows flavors to develop without much effort. It's an ideal meal for busy days when you need something simple and wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

This casserole is an easy, one-pan meal that combines creamy ranch and crispy bacon—flavors many picky eaters can’t resist. It’s a straightforward dish that comes together quickly and easily. The simple ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making it a convenient option for any weeknight. It’s a great choice for a filling, hassle-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker. — Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This slow-cooked mac and cheese is a creamy, comforting meal that requires little hands-on time. It’s perfect for picky eaters who love cheesy dishes and will appreciate the simple flavors. With just a few ingredients, this dish is easy to throw together and let the slow cooker work its magic. It's a stress-free option for a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Taco Spaghetti Skillet

A plate of spaghetti with ground meat, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped green onions. A black skillet containing more of the dish is partially visible in the background. — Taco Spaghetti Skillet. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This taco spaghetti skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines familiar taco flavors with pasta in a way your family will love. It's a simple, quick meal that requires minimal cleanup. The flavors are comforting and not too bold, making it ideal for picky eaters. A great weeknight dinner that can be made in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Taco Spaghetti Skillet

Personal Pizza

Close-up of a pepperoni pizza slice being lifted, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. — Personal Pizza. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Personal pizzas give each person a chance to customize their toppings, making them perfect for picky eaters. These pizzas cook quickly, and the portion size ensures no leftovers. They’re simple to make and can be adapted to various tastes, so everyone can enjoy their own creation. It’s an easy meal that everyone can make together.
Get the Recipe: Personal Pizza

Sloppy Joe Casserole

Cheesy hashbrown topped casserole in baking pan. — Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sloppy Joe casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines all the flavors of a classic Sloppy Joe in an easy-to-make casserole form. It’s a quick and easy dish that will fill everyone up without a lot of prep work. The comforting flavors are sure to please picky eaters who prefer simple meals. It’s perfect for busy families who want a hearty meal fast.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Cream Cheese Chicken

A plate with chicken and green beans on it. — Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Cream cheese chicken is an easy, creamy meal that comes together in one pan. The smooth, flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with chicken, making it a hit with picky eaters who enjoy mild, comforting flavors. It’s a straightforward dish with minimal ingredients and prep. This recipe is perfect for a quick, fuss-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Slow Cooker Rice

A spoonful of slow-cooked white rice held above a bowl, with a fresh green parsley leaf in the background. — Slow Cooker Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This slow cooker rice is the perfect side dish that requires little effort but yields great results. It’s a hassle-free way to cook rice without constantly checking on it. The rice comes out tender and fluffy, ready to pair with almost any main dish. It’s an easy side that will please even picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Rice

Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Four twice baked potatoes in a small baking dish. — Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These twice-baked potatoes are stuffed with cheese, bacon, and a creamy filling that everyone will love. They’re simple to prepare and cook quickly, making them an ideal side or main dish. The cheesy filling and crispy potato skins will win over any picky eater. They’re an easy and hearty meal option that feels indulgent but is simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Meatloaf on a white plate with a fork. — Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This classic meatloaf is hearty and flavorful, but easy enough to prepare for picky eaters. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, it’s a great choice for busy weeknights. The flavors are familiar and comforting, making it a great option for those who love traditional meals. It’s a filling dish that pairs well with almost any side.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Top view of a bowl of creamy tomato soup garnished with basil, served with a spoon and sunglasses on the side. — Crock Pot Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This slow-cooked tomato soup is perfect for a cozy, simple meal with minimal prep time. It’s creamy and comforting, and its familiar taste makes it a hit with picky eaters. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to focus on other things while dinner cooks. Serve with grilled cheese for a classic combo.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Beef Quesadillas

A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate. — Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Beef quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor without being overwhelming. They’re a great option for picky eaters who enjoy familiar ingredients like cheese and beef. The crispy tortilla and melted cheese make this a crowd-pleaser for any age. It’s an easy, customizable meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Fried potato wedges with ketchup and parsley. — Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer potato wedges are a healthier alternative to deep-fried potatoes, offering a crispy texture and tender inside. They cook quickly and require very little prep, making them a perfect side dish for any meal. The flavor is simple yet appealing to picky eaters who prefer classic tastes. Pair with your favorite main dish for an easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

A single barbecued chicken skewer on a white plate, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a parsley garnish, next to a plate of additional chicken skewers. — Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These chicken skewers are cooked in the air fryer for a quick, easy meal that’s full of flavor. The simple seasoning and easy-to-handle pieces make it a great choice for picky eaters. They cook quickly, so dinner is ready in no time. Serve with a side of veggies or rice for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Close-up of a cheesy scalloped potatoes dish in a white baking dish, garnished with parsley. — Easy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These scalloped potatoes are simple to prepare and bake in just over an hour. The creamy, cheesy layers are a comforting addition to any meal, and the recipe is flexible to suit different preferences. They’re a great side dish for picky eaters who love rich, familiar flavors. The hands-off cooking process makes them perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Frito Chili Pie

A plate of Fritos topped with ground beef, cheese, tomatoes, beans, and green onions. — Frito Chili Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Frito chili pie combines chili, cheese, and crunchy Fritos for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. It’s a simple, flavorful dish that picky eaters will love. The mix of textures adds fun to the meal, while the flavors are familiar and comforting. It’s a perfect option when you want something filling with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Frito Chili Pie

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

A blue bowl of cooked chicken breasts garnished with chopped herbs on a light fabric backdrop. — Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These slow-cooked chicken thighs are tender and juicy, requiring little prep or attention. They’re great for picky eaters who prefer simple, straightforward meals. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a flavorful, hands-off dinner. Serve with a side salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Sheet Pan Pancakes

A plate of square pancakes drizzled with syrup, next to strawberries and a cup of maple syrup on a white tablecloth. — Sheet Pan Pancakes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sheet pan pancakes make breakfast or dinner easy and fun, with minimal cleanup required. They cook in one pan, making them a time-saver when you need to feed a family. The pancakes are fluffy and perfect for picky eaters who like their breakfast simple. Serve with syrup and fresh fruit for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Pancakes

Chicken Nuggets

Hand dipping a chicken nugget into a bowl of ketchup, with a gray cloth background. — Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These homemade chicken nuggets are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect for picky eaters who prefer finger foods. They’re easy to make and cook in just minutes, so dinner is ready quickly. With a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to please everyone. Serve with dipping sauces for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

Turkey Roll Ups

Turkey roll-ups are a fun, easy meal that’s perfect for picky eaters who prefer simple flavors. They come together quickly, making them great for busy weeknights. You can customize them with different fillings, making them versatile for everyone’s tastes. They’re great on their own or paired with a side salad.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Ups

Broccoli Cheese Soup

This broccoli cheese soup is creamy and comforting, perfect for picky eaters who enjoy familiar flavors. It’s quick to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it an easy option for busy evenings. The rich cheese and tender broccoli pair well for a filling meal. Serve with crusty bread for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheese Soup

Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Cinnamon pancakes topped with cooked diced apples. — Apple Cinnamon Pancakes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Apple cinnamon pancakes are a simple, comforting breakfast or dinner that even picky eaters will enjoy. The apples add natural sweetness, and the cinnamon brings a warm flavor everyone loves. They’re easy to make and ready in no time, so breakfast is served without much effort. Serve with syrup or powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Belgian Waffle for One

Belgium waffle for one with butter and blueberries. — Belgian Waffle for One. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

A Belgian waffle for one is the perfect personal breakfast treat, made to order in no time. The crispy exterior and soft inside make it an easy choice for picky eaters. It’s simple to prepare and allows you to enjoy a classic waffle without making a large batch. Add your favorite toppings for a custom breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Belgian Waffle for One

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo chicken dip is an easy-to-make dish with creamy, spicy flavor that’s perfect for picky eaters who love finger foods. It’s ready in minutes, and its cheesy, bold flavor makes it hard to resist. The dip can be paired with crackers or veggies, making it a versatile snack or meal. It’s a great choice for any casual get-together.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Close-up of a crispy air fried chicken drumstick on a white plate garnished with parsley, with hot sauce in the background. — Air Fryer Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer chicken legs are crispy, juicy, and easy to make with minimal effort. They cook quickly, making them perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The seasoning is simple yet flavorful, making them appealing to picky eaters. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or potatoes for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Chicken Roll Ups

A wooden spoon holds a piece of cheesy lasagna above a glass baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley. — Chicken Roll Ups. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

These chicken roll-ups are a simple, fun dish that’s perfect for picky eaters who enjoy bite-sized meals. They cook quickly, making them ideal for busy nights when you need dinner fast. The flavors are simple, but they’re customizable with different fillings. Pair them with a side salad or veggies for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Roll Ups

Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Baked macaroni and cheese topped with breadcrumbs and bacon in a white dish, with a serving on a plate beside it. — Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This creamy mac and cheese is indulgent yet easy to make, making it an ideal choice for picky eaters. The cheesy sauce and tender pasta are a familiar favorite that everyone will enjoy. It’s a simple, no-fuss dish that comes together quickly. Serve with your favorite protein or vegetables for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese