What to Cook on the Hard Days

When everything feels like a 'no', these dishes are winners

Lately, we’ve run into a lot of pickiness. While I know it’s common for this age bracket, it’s no less frustrating and demoralizing. I, not unlike many parents, spend a lot of time planning, shopping, and cooking only to have an entire meal rejected. It’s so hard, especially when you know a hungry tummy is going to result in bedtime anarchy.

Of course, what GF foods your kiddo loves is very personal to them. However, I wanted to share some of our tried-and-true favorites, and links to some other delicious GF meals.

Three favorite meals for us include 1) GF meatballs, 2) tacos (even something as simple as cheese and plain black beans), and 3) build your own GF pizza. With both tacos and pizza, I find the kid-centric involvement can go a long way in their interest in the meal. Whether you make your own meatballs using the GFKC recipe above, or buy frozen, you can’t go wrong. Also, if you want to make your own but make it quick, use @thefoodallergymom 3-ingredient recipe:

1 pound ground meat
1/4 cup tomato sauce
1/3 cup parm cheese or cheese alternative
Spices of choice, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder or oregano

Mix into 2 inch meatballs, and air fry or bake on 350 for 10 minutes. I always check meat with a meat thermometer to make sure they’re at least 165 degrees!

Some other links I love. One of my favorite chicken dishes ever is from SkinnyTaste and can be used in a multitude of ways, and is totally GF. I appreciate the ability to make harissa from scratch or buy pre-made, and the delicious flavor it imparts that’s a nice departure from our usual flavor profiles.

I am itching to try this chili mac from The Kitchen, using GF pasta. This year, I am ALL about one-pot, set it and forget it meals.

Lastly, I was recently inspired to make a one pot recipe inspired by the great Caro Chambers. Her One Pot Cheesy Rice and Beans is stellar, and to simplify it even more, I put it in the Instant Pot, removed the tomato paste, and added chicken tenders to make it a whole meal in a one-and-done format.

Feeding kids can be HARD. Feeding your GF kid can also be HARD. But I hope even one of these makes your life a little easier, and makes your kiddo’s tummy a little more full!