Dinner Recipes For 12 Year Olds To Make
Are you looking for some easy dinner recipes that your 12 year old can make with minimal supervision? Cooking is a great life skill to teach your children, and it can be fun for them too! Below are some simple and delicious dinner ideas that your pre-teen can whip up in the kitchen.
1. Spaghetti and Meatballs
This classic dish is a favorite for many families. To make it, have your 12 year old boil spaghetti according to package instructions. Then, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, an egg, and some seasonings to make meatballs. Cook the meatballs in a skillet until browned on all sides. Finally, heat up a jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce and serve over the spaghetti with the meatballs on top.
2. Tacos
Tacos are a fun and customizable dinner option. Brown ground beef in a skillet and add taco seasoning according to package instructions. Then, lay out soft tortillas and let your 12 year old add their choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream.
3. Chicken Stir Fry
This Asian-inspired dish is healthy and easy to make. Have your child chop up chicken breast and vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and onions. Then, heat up some oil in a wok or large skillet and cook the chicken and vegetables until tender. Add soy sauce and serve over rice.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
This is a classic sandwich that is quick and easy to make. Simply butter two slices of bread and place a slice of cheese in between. Heat up a skillet and cook the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Pizza
Homemade pizza is a fun and tasty dinner option. To make it, purchase pre-made pizza dough and let your 12 year old stretch it out onto a pizza pan. Then, add sauce, cheese, and toppings of their choice such as pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives. Bake in the oven according to the pizza dough instructions.
6. Baked Chicken and Potatoes
This is a simple and hearty dinner option. Have your child place chicken breasts and diced potatoes in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bake in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
7. Chili
This is a warm and comforting dinner option that is perfect for cold winter nights. Brown ground beef in a skillet and add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin. Let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes and serve with shredded cheese and sour cream on top.
8. Quesadillas
This is another fun and customizable dinner option. Have your child lay out a tortilla and add shredded cheese and their choice of toppings such as diced chicken, onions, and peppers. Fold the tortilla in half and cook in a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
9. Macaroni and Cheese
This is a classic comfort food that is easy to make from scratch. Cook macaroni according to package instructions and set aside. In a separate pot, melt butter and add flour to make a roux. Then, slowly add milk and whisk until the mixture is smooth. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted. Finally, add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
10. Sloppy Joes
This is a messy but delicious dinner option. Brown ground beef in a skillet and add diced onions and green peppers. Then, add ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Let the mixture simmer for at least 10 minutes and serve on hamburger buns.
Conclusion
Teaching your 12 year old how to cook is a great way to bond and pass on important life skills. These dinner recipes are easy and fun to make, and they will give your child a sense of accomplishment when they see the finished product. Give them a try and see what your pre-teen can whip up in the kitchen!