5 Toddler-Approved Dinner Ideas Wyatt Loves

Starting solids is such an exciting milestone, but figuring out what to feed your little one something other than berries, can be overwhelming. Luckily, Wyatt has been a great little eater (we’ve still not found a food he doesn’t like and we’re well over 100 foods), and I’ve found a handful of homemade dinners that he absolutely loves. These meals are flavorful, nutritious, and perfect for toddlers exploring new tastes and textures. Bonus: they’re family-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it.

1. Beef Stew

A hearty, comforting classic that’s perfect for toddlers learning to chew. Wyatt loves the tender beef and soft veggies like peas, carrots and potatoes.

• Why it works for toddlers: The ingredients are slow-cooked and easy to mash, making it perfect for little fingers and mouths.
• Quick tip: Serve it with a side of toasted sourdough for dipping — Wyatt loves that he can hold the bread and real sourdough has minimal ingredients.

2. Chicken Curry with Rice

Mildly spiced chicken curry has become a hit with Wyatt. The rich flavors, soft chicken, and fluffy rice are irresistible!

• Why it works for toddlers: The curry is packed with flavor without being too spicy, and the rice is easy for little hands to scoop.
• Quick tip: Use full fat greek yogurt to keep it creamy and mild, and we love to add frozen peas for a nutrition boost.

3. Burgers and Fries

This one’s a toddler-friendly twist on a classic! Wyatt loves homemade burgers cut into bite size pieces paired with baked fries.

• Why it works for toddlers: The burger pieces are easy to hold and packed with protein, while the fries are soft and easy for him to hold.
• Quick tip: Make sliders instead of full-sized burgers for perfect toddler portions if you have other kids. Add a slice of cheese or for extra yum!

4. Grilled Cheese

We usually do grilled cheese for lunch but when time is limited nothing can beat the gooey, melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s a quick, easy option that never fails to please.

• Why it works for toddlers: It’s easy to chew, has a familiar flavor, and pairs well with simple sides like fruit, veggie straws, or steamed veggies.
• Quick tip: Try sneaking in extras like a thin slice of ham for added nutrition.

5. Chicken Pot Pie

Wyatt’s love for homemade chicken pot pie knows no bounds. The flaky crust, creamy filling, and tender veggies and chicken make it a comforting, filling meal.

• Why it works for toddlers: The soft, savory filling is packed with veggies and protein, and the flaky crust is fun to pick apart.
• Quick tip: You can make more than one potpie and freeze it for an easy dinner on a night where you just don’t feel like cooking!

Tips for Toddler Dinners:

• Keep it flavorful: Don’t shy away from spices and seasonings—toddlers love tasty food!
• Offer variety: Let them explore different textures and flavors to keep mealtime exciting. Something someone told me that has stuck with me during our journey with starting solids is that during this time we are not catering to our toddler’s preferences we are actually establishing them. That’s why it’s important to make sure we’re offering foods even if it’s something we don’t personally like.
• Make it fun: Bite-sized portions, sauces, and colorful veggies can make any meal more appealing.

These meals have been hits with Wyatt, and I hope they inspire your dinner plans too! What are your toddler’s favorite meals? Share your go-to recipes in the comments—I’m always looking for new ideas to try!