For many families, going out to eat was a routine before the COVID 19 crisis. While that isn’t a choice right now, it doesn’t mean there aren’t a few fun recipes to try that will remind you of those fun times out to eat!
Life is fun when your family gets to spend some quality time together during the week. You might discover new hobbies everyone loves or walk nature trails you’ve never explored. Still, self-isolating and practicing social distancing can grow old after a while, even if you’re discovering new things for your kids to do.
Stuck Inside? Try These 10 Fun Recipes
You might find yourself in the same recipe loop, just like many other families right now. Most dinners rotate between three or four favorites, even fewer when you’re limiting how often you go to the grocery store. The good news is there’s an entire world of recipes to explore that don’t require any unique ingredients.
Check out these ten fun recipes that are easy to make when you’re stuck inside. Try something new to switch up your routine and impress any young kids who wish they could go back to their favorite restaurants.
1. One-Pan Chicken Stroganoff
The best recipes are the ones that don’t take up much of your time or resources. No one enjoys standing at the sink doing dishes for an hour after every meal, so try this easy one-pan chicken stroganoff recipe that will have everyone asking for more.
All you need is some chicken, spices, egg noodles, and sour cream to whip up a meal that will become a new staple in your house.
2. Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Most homes always have chicken and cheese on hand, so add bacon to your following grocery list and make bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts this week.
The bacon browns nicely in the oven, and you’ll slice into a cheesy chicken delight with your favorite veggies on the side.
3. Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters
Don’t forget that you can always pull out your grill and roast chicken leg quarters for a backyard barbecue. Whip up some Alabama sauce with the right ingredients and a little grill rub for the perfect flavor.
4. Simple Meatball Subs
Anyone can make their family meatball subs with the right spices, bread, and tomato sauce. Top your sandwiches with cheese and opt for frozen meatballs if that’s what’s in your freezer.
You can quickly adapt this recipe with whatever you have on hand and freeze what you don’t eat.
5. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Instant pots make everything more accessible, especially if you’re looking for a new mac and cheese recipe.
Throw your favorite cheese blends in with the pasta and some chicken broth to enjoy a steaming bowl of homemade macaroni in less than ten minutes.
6. Easy Pizza Bake
In these challenging times, you might not find much stocked at the grocery store. If you have a surplus of pasta at home, make an easy pizza bake for a new twist on the old pasta dinner.
Top it with marinara sauce, cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings to create a meal so tasty. You’ll wonder if you ordered delivery.
7. Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups
Forget making another lasagna if that’s coming up on your menu. Instead, use the noodles for chicken alfredo lasagna roll-ups. Six ingredients create a quick meal you can use as leftovers or freeze for later in the week.
8. Classic Chili Dinner
When you’re looking for the perfect comfort food in trying times, make a traditional chili dinner. Kidney or pinto beans are an affordable protein source for big families, so stock up when you can.
Chili lasts a long time and works as both lunch and dinner, so you can make it whenever you want.
9. Instant Pot Beef Stew
Even the pickiest eaters can’t find much wrong with instant pot beef stew. Load up your pot with stew meat, potatoes, carrots, and whatever else you prefer.
Make a huge batch to freeze for future meals or serve fresh with a salad or a side of sliced bread.
10. Gourmet Grilled Cheese
The next time you want to break out tomato soup cans, try making gourmet grilled cheese. Find whatever fresh bread you can get and top it with gouda and cheddar cheese, plus some parmesan if you feel like splurging.
It’s the perfect side to dip into tomato soup or serve as breakfast for dinner.
Try Something New With These Great Recipes
You might not be sure if your kids will like a recipe or if you can branch outside your cooking comfort zone, but give it a try. A new recipe everyone likes could be a favorite meal for years to come.
We hope you enjoyed this round-up of fun recipes to trying while stuck at home. If your children are struggling with anxiety, make sure to check out this article with five easy ways to help your child with anxiety during COVID 19.
