There’s nothing quite like the laughter and excitement that fills the kitchen when grandkids are around. Cooking together can turn an ordinary afternoon into a cherished memory. But what meals will actually make them smile (and eat)? We’ve gathered a few fun, easy favorites that are sure to get two thumbs up.
Breakfast for Dinner:
Kids love anything that feels a little unexpected, and having breakfast foods at dinnertime always get a big reaction.
Grandma Janet’s Easy Fluffy Pancakes Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (lumps are okay).
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it.
- Pour 1/4 cup batter for each pancake. Flip when bubbles form on the surface, about 2 minutes per side.
Tip: Let kids decorate with fruit slices, chocolate chips, whipped cream, and syrup!
Build-Your-Own Tacos: A Hands-On Favorite
Nothing beats a taco night when kids get to be the chefs. Plus, studies show that children involved in preparing their food are more adventurous eaters (Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior).
Simple Chicken Tacos Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
- 1/2 cup mild salsa
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Taco shells or small tortillas
- Toppings: shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream
Instructions:
- In a bowl, toss shredded chicken with salsa, cumin, and garlic powder.
- Warm in a pan over low heat for about 5 minutes.
- Set out chicken and toppings for a build-your-own taco bar!
One-Pot Macaroni and Veggies: Comfort Food with a Twist
Grandpa Mike from Florida says,
“When I mix the vegetables into mac and cheese, my grandkids gobble it up. They even ask for seconds!”
Creamy Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup chopped broccoli or mixed veggies
Instructions:
- Boil macaroni according to package directions. Add veggies during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Drain and return to the pot.
- Stir in butter, milk, salt, pepper, and cheese until smooth and creamy.
Tip: Serve hot with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top!
Sweet Treat: One-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream
A healthy, no-guilt dessert that’s magic to watch—and even more fun to eat.
Banana Ice Cream Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas
Optional Add-Ins:
- Splash of vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter or chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Peel and slice bananas. Freeze slices for at least 2 hours.
- Blend frozen banana slices in a food processor until smooth and creamy.
- Add vanilla, peanut butter, or chocolate chips if you like!
Tip: Serve immediately for soft-serve texture or freeze for 1-2 hours for a firmer ice cream.
Cooking with (and for) your grandkids isn’t just about filling bellies, it’s about filling hearts. Whether you’re flipping pancakes or blending bananas, you’re also blending laughter, love, and lifelong memories. It’s not about making the perfect meal,it’s about making the perfect moment.
The Ultimate Little Chef Kit for Big Kitchen Fun
Turn kitchen time into quality time with our Little Chef bundle, specially curated by the ZestYears team. Packed with fun tools, baking kits, and cooking inspired activities, it’s perfect for sparking curiosity and building confidence. From mixing and measuring to growing veggies and making waffles, this set makes every moment hands-on and delicious.
