Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about what delicious dishes to serve at your holiday gathering. While the traditional turkey dinner is always a hit, why not mix things up with some fun and easy kid-friendly recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters? From sweet treats to savory snacks, we’ve rounded up 20 easy Thanksgiving recipes that kids will love.
In this article, we’ll be sharing a variety of tasty and simple recipes that are perfect for a family holiday celebration. Whether you’re looking for some creative alternatives to traditional dishes or just want to make mealtime a little more enjoyable for the kids, these recipes are sure to fit the bill.
From turkey pinwheels to pumpkin pancakes, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore our list of 20 easy kid-friendly Thanksgiving recipes!
Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels
A classic combination of flavors and textures comes together in these easy-to-make pinwheels. Perfect as a quick snack or lunchbox addition, they’re sure to please both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tortilla wraps (6-8 count)
– 2 slices of cooked turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons of cream cheese softened
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh spinach
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay a tortilla wrap flat on a surface.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of cream cheese along the center of the wrap, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
3. Place 1 slice of turkey breast and 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cream cheese.
4. Sprinkle chopped spinach over the cheese.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a pinwheel shape.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! These pinwheels are ready to eat as is.
Sweet Potato Tater Tots
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, sweet potato tater tots that are perfect for movie nights or as a side dish. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add panko breadcrumbs and mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into small pieces and shape each piece into a tot.
5. Dip each tot in the beaten egg for an egg wash, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with a little vegetable oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Pumpkin Pies
These bite-sized pumpkin pies are perfect for a holiday party or a special treat any time of the year. With their flaky crust and creamy filling, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
4. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Place a spoonful of the pumpkin mixture onto one half of each pastry square.
6. Fold the other half over to form a triangle, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Mashed Potato Bites
These bite-sized treats are the perfect combination of creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy exterior. They’re easy to make and sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese and flour.
4. Add the mashed potatoes to the cheese mixture and stir until combined.
5. Use your hands to shape the potato mixture into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
6. Dip each ball into the beaten egg and then roll in the remaining cheddar cheese to coat.
7. Place the bites onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bite.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thanksgiving Turkey Quesadillas
Transform your Thanksgiving turkey into a delicious quesadilla that’s perfect for a post-holiday snack or meal. This recipe combines the savory flavors of roasted turkey with melted cheese, crispy tortillas, and a hint of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, shredded turkey
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, cheese, and cilantro.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the turkey mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and golden brown.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Yogurt Parfait
This refreshing dessert is perfect for a light and fruity treat any time of the year. The combination of creamy yogurt, sweet cranberries, and crunchy granola is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Add the cranberries to the yogurt mixture and stir until they’re evenly distributed.
3. Spoon half of the yogurt-cranberry mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
4. Top with granola and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with a dollop of yogurt on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is quick and easy to prepare.
Stuffing Muffins
These sweet treats combine the warm spices of traditional stuffing with a soft and fluffy muffin texture, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup dried bread crumbs (stuffing mix)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
– 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, milk, bread crumbs, sage, thyme, and nutmeg.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pumpkin Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these moist and flavorful pumpkin pancakes, topped with a drizzle of pure Canadian maple syrup. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, this recipe is sure to become a new fall tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and pumpkin puree.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
7. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey-Shaped Cheese and Crackers
A fun and easy snack that’s perfect for kids’ parties or family gatherings. This recipe is quick to make and requires only a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup whole wheat crackers, shaped like turkeys (or regular crackers)
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– Optional: cranberry sauce or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the crackers on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the crackers, making sure each one is covered.
5. Dot the top of each cracker with softened butter.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– Use a cookie cutter to shape the crackers into turkeys, if desired.
– Garnish with cranberry sauce or chopped nuts for an extra festive touch.
Green Bean Fries
Transform green beans into a tasty and crunchy snack with this simple recipe! Green bean fries make a great alternative to traditional potato fries, offering a burst of freshness and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the green beans into fry shapes, about 3-4 inches long and 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the green bean fries in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fries and toss to coat.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the fries in a single layer.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Cider Donut Holes
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, milk, apple cider, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Once risen, use a cookie scoop or a spoon to drop small balls of dough into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Cook donut holes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed up.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (depending on the size of the donut holes)
Cornbread Mini Loaves
These adorable mini loaves are perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. With their moist, crumbly texture and sweet corn flavor, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
This creamy, comforting dish combines the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of macaroni and cheese, perfect for a chilly fall evening. With the addition of roasted pumpkin puree and spices, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: paprika or cayenne pepper for added spice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and pumpkin puree. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Add butter, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce, stirring until melted.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Gravy Sliders
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic sliders! This recipe combines tender turkey, rich gravy, and melted cheese all on toasted buns.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup turkey gravy (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns
– 4 slices cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Split buns in half and toast on the oven rack for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble sliders by spreading turkey mixture onto toasted bun halves, topping with cheese, and drizzling with turkey gravy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Carrots
Sweet and savory, these cinnamon sugar roasted carrots are a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch sticks
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Toss carrot sticks with olive oil until they’re evenly coated.
4. Add the sugar-cinnamon mixture and toss until carrots are well-coated.
5. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Pecan Pie Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or as a sweet indulgence any time of the year. With a gooey pecan filling and flaky crust, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 large egg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or your fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Press dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
4. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling by whisking together corn syrup, egg, and chopped pecans.
6. Remove crust from oven and let cool slightly. Spoon a small amount of filling onto each crust; bake for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 14-16 minutes
Cranberry Orange Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast on-the-go or as a sweet treat to brighten up your day. With the sweetness of orange and the tanginess of cranberries, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, cranberries, orange juice, and zest.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Bites
Looking for a tasty and healthy snack that’s easy to make? Look no further! These Cheesy Broccoli Bites are the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and nutritious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of these bite-sized treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together broccoli, cheese, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Add olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
4. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
5. Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs
Elevate your holiday entertaining with these creative Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup leftover stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings like dried herbs, garlic powder, or paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, stuffing, breadcrumbs, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
Get ready to fall in love with the flavors of autumn! These Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats combine the classic childhood favorite with the warmth and comfort of pumpkin spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup melted butter or margarine
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: orange and yellow sprinkles for added color
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt butter or margarine over low heat.
2. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until combined.
4. Add Rice Krispies cereal and stir until evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
5. Press into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on desired level of crispiness)
Summary
Get ready to impress your kids with these delicious and easy Thanksgiving recipes! From Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels to Sweet Potato Tater Tots, Mini Pumpkin Pies, and more, we’ve got you covered. These kid-friendly dishes are perfect for a fun and stress-free holiday meal. Try making Cheesy Mashed Potato Bites or Thanksgiving Turkey Quesadillas for a twist on classic favorites. And don’t forget the sweet treats – like Pumpkin Pancakes with Maple Syrup or Apple Cider Donut Holes. There’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 easy and tasty recipes!
