Easy Family Dinners Even Picky Eaters Enjoy

Jenny deRemer

Nov 24, 2025

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Finding weeknight dinners that make everyone in the family happy can feel like a challenge, especially when picky eaters are involved. That’s why I’ve put together a collection of recipes that are sure to please even the fussiest palates. These meals are not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. Plus, they’re designed to fit into your busy schedule, so you can enjoy quality time around the table without the stress. Let’s make family dinners something everyone looks forward to!

Table of Contents

French Onion Salisbury Steak

A white plate with mashed potatoes, sweet corn, and an open-faced sandwich topped with beef and onion gravy. The plate is garnished with parsley and placed on an orange patterned napkin.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

French Onion Salisbury Steak is a fantastic meal that combines classic flavors with a comforting twist. This dish features savory beef patties topped with caramelized onions and rich gravy, perfect for any family dinner. It’s a reliable choice for weeknight meals, offering both flavor and heartiness to satisfy everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Salisbury Steak

Tender Shaved Beef Fajitas

In the image, a cast iron skillet contains sautéed peppers, onions, avocado slices, and crumbled cheese. Nearby are tortillas, lime wedges in a bowl, and a bowl of sliced cherry tomatoes.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful option, Tender Shaved Beef Fajitas is an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner with family. This dish features marinated beef served with fresh veggies, making it easy to assemble and enjoy. Pair it with warm tortillas, and you have a fun, interactive meal everyone can customize.
Get the Recipe: Tender Shaved Beef Fajitas

Amazing Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy

A plate of egg noodles topped with meatballs and creamy brown gravy, garnished with chopped parsley. Fresh parsley leaves are placed on the wooden table next to the plate.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Looking for a crowd-pleaser? Amazing Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy is just the ticket for a weeknight family dinner! These flavorful meatballs, served in a rich, creamy sauce, are sure to impress everyone. Perfect for busy nights, they pair well with rice or noodles, making for a quick and satisfying meal that appeals to all ages.
Get the Recipe: Amazing Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy

One Pan Chicken Drumsticks and Potatoes

A skillet filled with roasted chicken drumsticks, sliced carrots, and sliced potatoes, garnished with lemon slices and herbs. Three whole tomatoes surround the skillet on a light-colored surface, and a gray napkin partially rests under the skillet's handle.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

For hassle-free cooking, try One Pan Chicken Drumsticks and Potatoes. This recipe brings together juicy drumsticks and crispy potatoes, all roasted to perfection in a single pan. It’s an excellent choice for family weeknight dinners, as it minimizes cleanup while delivering a hearty meal everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Chicken Drumsticks and Potatoes

Smoked Carolina Pulled Pork Sandwiches

A sandwich overflowing with tender, shredded pulled pork nestled in a soft bun. The meat has a mix of crispy burnt ends and juicy shreds. A red and white checkered cloth and a small bowl of coleslaw are visible in the background.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

For a filling and delicious meal, try Smoked Carolina Pulled Pork Sandwiches. This recipe is a great fit for a weeknight dinner with family, allowing you to enjoy tender, smoky pork piled high on a bun. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing option that pairs wonderfully with coleslaw for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carolina Pulled Pork Sandwiches

French Onion Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with cooked egg noodles, topped with crispy fried onions. A wooden spoon rests nearby, along with whole onions and a bowl of extra fried onions, all arranged on a wooden table.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

If you’re in the mood for comfort food, French Onion Noodle Casserole is an excellent choice for a family weeknight dinner. This dish combines savory flavors of French onion soup with tender noodles, creating a warm, satisfying meal. It’s simple to prepare ahead of time, making it ideal for busy evenings when everyone is hungry.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Noodle Casserole

Farm to Table Thick Beef Stew Recipe

A hearty stew in a white bowl, featuring chunks of beef, potatoes, and carrots in a rich brown broth. Garnished with a sprig of parsley, the meal is accompanied by a fresh roll with butter on the side. A spoon and orange napkin are nearby.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Nothing says comfort like a big bowl of Farm to Table Thick Beef Stew Recipe. Loaded with hearty beef and fresh vegetables, this stew is perfect for warming up on cool nights. It’s a fantastic choice for weeknight family dinners, as it allows you to enjoy a home-cooked meal that’s filling and nutritious, while also being easy to prepare and serve.
Get the Recipe: Farm to Table Thick Beef Stew Recipe

Cheesy Cheddar Broccoli Casserole

A decorative ceramic bowl filled with a cheesy broccoli and potato casserole. The bowl features colorful floral patterns and a blue handle. A blue and white patterned cloth is partially visible beside it on a white surface.
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If you want a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare, Cheesy Cheddar Broccoli Casserole is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights with family. Packed with fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, this casserole will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping the meal satisfying and filling. You can even prep it ahead of time for an effortless dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cheddar Broccoli Casserole

Chicken Cutlets with Sundried Tomato Cream Sauce

A metal pan with chicken and sun-dried tomatoes in a cream sauce, garnished with basil leaves, on a marble countertop.
Image credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

For a quick yet delicious dinner, try Chicken Cutlets with Sundried Tomato Cream Sauce. This recipe features juicy chicken coated in a rich cream sauce, perfectly balanced with the tangy flavor of sundried tomatoes. It’s an easy and impressive dish that makes for an ideal family-friendly weeknight dinner, ensuring everyone enjoys a delightful meal together.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cutlets with Sundried Tomato Cream Sauce

Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups

A close-up of sliced chicken cordon bleu. The dish features breaded and baked chicken breasts, stuffed with ham and melted cheese. The outer layer is golden brown and crispy, while the inside is juicy and filled with creamy cheese and ham layers.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

For a fun and tasty family dinner, try Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups. These easy-to-make roll-ups are filled with ham and cheese, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something that feels special but doesn’t take too long to prepare. Serve them with a side salad for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Ups

Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin

Sliced pork tenderloin wrapped in crispy bacon, glazed with a light sauce, served on a white oval plate.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin brings a mouthwatering twist to your dinner table, making it a fantastic weeknight option for families. The savory combination of tender pork and crispy bacon creates a rich flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s simple enough to prepare, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying dinner together.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin

No Yolk Savory Noodle Kugel

A close-up of a baked noodle kugel in a white rectangular dish. The noodles are golden brown and slightly crispy, with a hint of seasoning visible on the surface.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

If you’re looking for a unique side dish, No Yolk Savory Noodle Kugel fits the bill. This flavorful casserole features egg noodles and a blend of spices, creating a comforting side that pairs well with many main dishes. It’s a great addition to family dinners, especially on busy weeknights, as you can prepare it in advance and just bake when needed.
Get the Recipe: No Yolk Savory Noodle Kugel

Delicata Squash Saltimbocca with Pan Scallops

A plate of seared scallops and prosciutto-wrapped figs, garnished with crispy sage leaves, served on a white dish. The scallops have a caramelized crust, and the figs are topped with herbs, creating a savory and elegant presentation.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

For something unique, Delicata Squash Saltimbocca with Pan Scallops is an exciting option for a family weeknight dinner. This dish offers a beautiful presentation and combines sweet squash with tender scallops and prosciutto. It’s a flavorful meal that can impress while still being easy enough for a busy evening.
Get the Recipe: Delicata Squash Saltimbocca with Pan Scallops

Easy to Make Chicken Francaise

A skillet with cooked chicken breasts topped with lemon slices and sprinkled with chopped herbs in a creamy sauce.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

If you want a restaurant-quality dish at home, Easy to Make Chicken Francaise fits the bill for a family weeknight dinner. This recipe features tender chicken in a lemony sauce that’s both bright and comforting. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal on a busy evening.
Get the Recipe: Easy to Make Chicken Francaise

Cast Iron Ribeye With Shiitake And Shallot

A close-up of a seared steak topped with sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions in a creamy sauce. Fresh chives are placed on the side of the plate for garnish. The dish is presented on a white plate.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

For a restaurant-quality meal at home, try Cast Iron Ribeye With Shiitake And Shallot. This dish is a great fit for a family weeknight dinner, as it’s both elegant and easy to prepare. The rich flavors of the ribeye and mushrooms come together beautifully, making for a memorable meal that will impress everyone around the table.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Ribeye With Shiitake And Shallot

Cassoulet-Style French Bean Stew Recipe

A hearty bowl of beef stew filled with chunks of beef, red kidney beans, carrots, and onions, garnished with fresh herbs. The stew is served in a metal pot with handles, placed on a wooden surface.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Warm and hearty, Cassoulet-Style French Bean Stew Recipe brings comfort to your table on busy nights. Loaded with beans and vegetables, this stew is not only nutritious but also filling enough to satisfy everyone. It’s a great choice for weeknight family dinners, as it can be made ahead and reheated, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Cassoulet-Style French Bean Stew Recipe

Cajun Steak with Grilled Patatas Bravas

A plate with sliced steak topped with roasted garlic and herbs, creamy sauce, seasoned roasted potatoes, and a serving of potato salad on a white dish.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Spice up your dinner routine with Cajun Steak with Grilled Patatas Bravas. This dish makes a fantastic choice for a weeknight family dinner, as it combines bold flavors with simple ingredients. The steak is seasoned perfectly, and the crispy potatoes are a delightful side, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Steak with Grilled Patatas Bravas

Traditional Irish Cottage Pie

A plate of shepherd's pie with a golden-brown crust of mashed potatoes on top, served alongside a fresh green salad. The pie filling includes ground meat and vegetables in a savory sauce. An orange and white patterned cloth is seen in the background.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

For a taste of home, Traditional Irish Cottage Pie delivers hearty goodness perfect for a family dinner on a weeknight. This recipe features layers of seasoned beef and a fluffy mashed potato topping, ensuring everyone leaves the table full and happy. It’s a reliable option for those evenings when you need a comforting, delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Traditional Irish Cottage Pie

Chicken Enchilada Recipe with Three Cheese Chipotle Sauce

A close-up of a cheesy, baked casserole with a golden crust. It is garnished with chopped green onions and cilantro. A metal spoon is scooping out a portion, revealing a creamy, textured interior in a white dish.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

If you’re looking to spice things up, Chicken Enchilada Recipe with Three Cheese Chipotle Sauce is a delicious choice for a family weeknight dinner. This dish layers tender chicken with a smoky, cheesy sauce that adds just the right amount of kick. It’s a fun and flavorful option that’s sure to please everyone while keeping dinner exciting.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Enchilada Recipe with Three Cheese Chipotle Sauce

Stuffed Deviled Crab: A South Carolina Lowcountry Classic

A close-up of a baked seafood dish with a golden, crumbly topping, garnished with finely chopped green herbs and red peppers. A brush is applying a glaze over the top, enhancing the appetizing appearance.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Stuffed Deviled Crab: A South Carolina Lowcountry Classic brings the taste of coastal cooking to your table for a family weeknight dinner. This dish features sweet crab meat baked to perfection with flavorful seasonings. It’s a delightful option that provides a unique meal everyone will talk about long after the last bite.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Deviled Crab: A South Carolina Lowcountry Classic

Ultimate Thanksgiving Leftovers Turkey Cranberry Sandwich

Open-faced turkey sandwiches with melted cheese and cranberry sauce on toasted bread, garnished with fresh rosemary. Two wooden shakers are in the background, and the dish is served on a white plate.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Turn leftover turkey into something special with the Ultimate Thanksgiving Leftovers Turkey Cranberry Sandwich. This recipe is a delightful choice for a weeknight dinner with family, transforming ordinary leftovers into a satisfying meal. With tangy cranberry sauce and creamy dressing, it’s a perfect way to enjoy those holiday flavors again.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Thanksgiving Leftovers Turkey Cranberry Sandwich

Ukrainian Holubtsi or Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

A close-up of a hearty meal of stuffed cabbage rolls in a decorative bowl, covered in a tomato-based sauce. The dish is surrounded by an orange candle, a knitted cloth, and sprigs of autumnal berries, creating a cozy, rustic ambiance. A fork is placed nearby.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Experience comfort food at its best with Ukrainian Holubtsi or Stuffed Cabbage Rolls. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner with family, featuring savory meat and rice wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. It’s a wholesome meal that can be made in advance, making it ideal for busy nights when you need something delicious and filling.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Holubtsi or Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Tailgater Frito Pie With Cowgirl Chili

A vibrant, baked cheesy dish featuring layers of ground beef, melted cheese, sliced green onions, sliced jalapeños, and halved cherry tomatoes, garnished with chopped green onions. The crispy base appears to be a layer of corn chips.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Tailgater Frito Pie With Cowgirl Chili is a fun, hearty dish that’s ideal for a family weeknight dinner. Combining crunchy Fritos with a rich, spicy chili creates a unique meal that everyone will enjoy. This recipe is also perfect for gatherings, allowing everyone to dig in and customize their bowls.
Get the Recipe: Tailgater Frito Pie With Cowgirl Chili

Herb Crusted Pork Loin with Zinfandel Reduction

Sliced roast beef arranged on a white oval platter, garnished with fresh parsley. The meat has a cooked exterior with a juicy pink center, shown on a light-colored surface.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Herb Crusted Pork Loin with Zinfandel Reduction is a wonderful way to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. The flavorful herbs create a delightful crust, while the zinfandel reduction adds a rich sauce that complements the meat beautifully. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something special yet easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Herb Crusted Pork Loin with Zinfandel Reduction

Dutch Oven Chicken Cacciatore

A close-up of a pot of hearty tomato-based stew with visible chunks of vegetables, beans, and pieces of seafood. The red pot handle can be seen on the left, and a wooden spoon is partially visible on the right side of the pot.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Dutch Oven Chicken Cacciatore is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Italian dish on a weeknight. Tender chicken simmered in a savory tomato sauce creates a delicious, warming meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, as you can prepare it ahead of time, letting the flavors meld while you relax after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Chicken Cacciatore

Sautéed Chicken Breast with Shallot and Cider

A white plate with a serving of chicken breast topped with a diced onion sauce next to a portion of creamy yellow polenta. The plate is set on a light wooden surface adorned with a linen napkin and a small sprig of red berries and green leaves.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Looking for a quick dinner option? Sautéed Chicken Breast with Shallot and Cider combines tender chicken with the sweet notes of cider and the savory taste of shallots. This recipe cooks up fast, making it ideal for busy weeknights when your family craves something delicious yet simple to prepare. It’s sure to become a go-to in your dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Chicken Breast with Shallot and Cider

Hearty Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

a white bowl with a red napkin, with spaghetti and meatballs and marinara sauce
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

You can’t go wrong with Hearty Meatballs in Marinara Sauce for a comforting family dinner. These flavorful meatballs simmered in rich marinara are perfect over pasta or in a sub sandwich. This dish is simple to prepare and a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Charleston Shrimp and Grits with Crab Gravy

A plate of creamy mashed potatoes topped with succulent shrimp and a rich, savory gravy. The dish is garnished with chunks of crab meat and small pieces of red bell pepper, adding color and texture to the meal. The gravy glistens, blending the flavors together.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Bring a taste of the South to your kitchen with Charleston Shrimp and Grits with Crab Gravy. This dish is perfect for a weeknight family dinner, featuring creamy grits topped with flavorful shrimp and a luscious crab gravy. It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: Charleston Shrimp and Grits with Crab Gravy

Easy Po’ Boy Steak Sandwich

Two loaded steak sandwiches topped with colorful sautéed bell peppers, onions, and fresh lettuce on a toasted hoagie bun, displayed on a rustic baking tray. The sandwiches are overflowing with juicy, seasoned steak pieces and vibrant vegetables.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

For a quick and hearty meal, Easy Po’ Boy Steak Sandwich is perfect for a weeknight dinner. This sandwich layers juicy steak with fresh toppings, all packed into a crispy roll. It’s a fantastic option for busy families craving something filling without too much fuss. Plus, it’s customizable, so everyone can add their favorite condiments.
Get the Recipe: Easy Po’ Boy Steak Sandwich

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About Jenny deRemer

I am a Charleston, South Carolina-based culinary novice, an ardent authority on all things travel, a designer by trade, and the creator of Not Entirely Average. I have a weakness for farmers' markets, delight in adventures way off the beaten path, enjoy documenting my many moods through photography, and have been known to conquer the occasional yard sale with gusto!

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