35 Comfort Food Dinners That Even the Kids Don’t Complain About

Family dinners usually come with at least one critic ready to give a review. Not with these 35 comfort food dinners though. They pass the ultimate test when the kids stay seated and actually eat what’s in front of them. Even better, leftovers rarely survive the night, which might be the best compliment of all.

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side. — Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cacio e Pepe

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible. — Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes, you just want something simple yet fufilling for dinner. Cacio e Pepe is one of those meals that feels hearty but won’t leave you stuffed. It’s got a creamy texture paired with just the right amount of bite. Even picky eaters won’t have much to complain about here.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Close-up of sliced crumbly cakes topped with white icing. One piece is positioned vertically to show its texture. — Cinnamon Sugar Blondies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When it’s time for dessert, a little sweetness goes a long way. Cinnamon Sugar Blondies bring the perfect mix of chewy and sugary goodness to any evening. They’re the kind of treat kids will sneak seconds of without hesitation. One bite really has everyone grabbing for more.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Aglio e Olio

Close-up of fettuccine pasta tossed with grated cheese, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes being lifted with a fork. — Aglio e Olio. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Nothing beats the pleasing comfort of pasta after a long day. Aglio e Olio is a simple dish that feels fancier than it is while being incredibly easy to enjoy. It’s light yet filling and has just the right kick. This is pasta at its most laid-back and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Aglio e Olio

Fruit Cake

Some classic desserts simply never go out of style, and Fruit Cake is exactly that. Packed with its trademark sweetness, it’s always a favorite around the table. Kids don’t even mind its dense texture, thanks to its richness. It’s one of those dishes that everyone can agree on, no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Cake

Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

A close-up of a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup garnished with croutons, a sprig of mint, and grated cheese. — Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Every now and then, nothing hits the spot like a hot bowl of soup. Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup is one of those warm meals that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s simple, filling, and won’t have you feeling overloaded on vegetables. Kids and adults love this one in equal measure.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Banana Pudding Brownies

Several squares of chocolate brownies with a yellow and brown marbled pattern are stacked and arranged on parchment paper. — Banana Pudding Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Got a sweet tooth but want something other than cake or cookies? Banana Pudding Brownies might turn into your new obsession. They’re the ultimate combination of two classic desserts in one dish. This dessert always finds a way to disappear quickly from the table.
Get the Recipe: Banana Pudding Brownies

Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

A white dish filled with cooked fusilli pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, with a silver fork resting inside. — Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pasta dishes are great when you need a quick, fun meal. Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta is one of those easy recipes that manages to feel fresh every time. It’s creamy, cheesy, and works well as a meal on its own or a side. Serve it up, and you won’t be hearing any complaints.
Get the Recipe: Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

Marry Me Cookies

A stack of four chocolate chip cookies, with the top cookie partly broken, next to a metal container and a ceramic bowl on a light surface. — Marry Me Cookies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cookies that feel extra special can be rare. Marry Me Cookies live up to their name with their perfect balance of chewy texture and sweet mix-ins. These are not your usual chocolate chip cookies, they have their own unique thing going on. Bake a batch, and they might just become the house favorite.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Cookies

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

If you think you need potatoes to satisfy a craving for something cheesy, think again. Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is rich, creamy, and a great way to change up your dinner side dish game. It turns a simple vegetable into a meal everyone will want to scoop up. Trust me, this one’s a dinner winner.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Sweet Potato Gnocchi

A plate of golden-brown gnocchi garnished with rosemary, served with a black fork. — Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s just something fun about making something from scratch that feels a bit fancy. Sweet Potato Gnocchi is one of those meals that’s simple yet worth talking about at the table. It’s nice and hearty but also feels a little lighter than traditional gnocchi. Toss them into your rotation, you won’t regret it.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Red Lentil Soup

A bowl of lentil curry garnished with chopped cilantro and a swirl of cream, with a spoon in the bowl. — Red Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When you need something warm, filling, and good for you, this next one is a win. Red Lentil Soup is easy to throw together and makes you feel good with every bite. It’s great for days when you want something lighter but homey enough to fill the table. Even better, it’s a great option for leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Red Lentil Soup

Best Chocolate Cake

A person holding a slice of chocolate layer cake with frosting from a chocolate cake recipe. — Best Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rich cocoa flavor makes Best Chocolate Cake a perfect dessert for any dinner gathering. This cake has a moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture that always hits the spot. Kids especially enjoy the simplicity of this dessert. Top it off with anything, and it’ll feel like a celebration.
Get the Recipe: Best Chocolate Cake

Dauphinoise Potatoes

Creamy layers of potatoes define Dauphinoise Potatoes, making it a go-to comfort food. It combines velvety textures with a fulfilling warmth that pleases everyone around the table. Perfect for pairing with your favorite main dish, it works well for small or big meals. Its no-fuss appeal draws people in before you even serve it.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Chocolate Chip Cookies

A hand holding a chocolate chip cookie on a cooling rack. — Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet bites of chewy goodness make Chocolate Chip Cookies a household favorite every time. Simple yet impossible to resist, they disappear faster than you think. They’re amazing for gatherings or enjoying after a long day. Just bake and watch everyone sneak back for one more.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies

Gnocchi

Bite-sized comfort hits a high with Gnocchi because it feels so homey and filling. Its soft, pillowy texture makes sure everyone at the table enjoys. Kids usually love the option of dressing it up with their favorite sauce. Pair it with anything, and there’s no complaining afterward.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

Decadence meets creativity when you combine cheesecake with pie in Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake. This dessert grabs attention and pleases everyone with creamy layers and a hint of apple goodness. It’s perfect for dessert lovers and picky eaters alike. Save room because this dish is worth coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

Marry Me Butter Beans

A cast iron skillet with creamy pasta mixed with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, topped with cheese, with a wooden spoon resting inside. — Marry Me Butter Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Butter beans step up their game in Marry Me Butter Beans, offering a hearty dish for weeknight dinners. They bring a creamy texture that balances perfectly with their subtle richness. It’s a versatile option that works as a standalone or a side dish. Everyone keeps going back for another helping.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Butter Beans

Corn Casserole

Sweet corn shines in Corn Casserole, making it an easy hit for any dinner gathering. It blends softness and a little crunch, making it a go-to comfort option at the table. Kids and adults always appreciate its simple, crowd-pleasing style. One dish, and you’re guaranteed empty plates.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Marry Me Tortellini

A bowl of creamy tortellini pasta with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a basil garnish. — Marry Me Tortellini. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cheesy and homey vibes take over with Marry Me Tortellini for easy dinner nights. This dish pairs comfort with that timeless touch everyone seems to crave. Even picky eaters don’t argue over this one. You’ll find yourself repeating this option week after week.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini

Oreo Cheesecake

A slice of cookies and cream cheesecake is being lifted from a plate. The cake has a crumbly cookie crust, creamy filling with cookie pieces, and a topping of crushed cookies. — Oreo Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy, rich goodness is the best way to describe Oreo Cheesecake because of its irresistible bite. This dessert perfectly blends layers of sweetness for the ultimate treat. Kids love the simplicity of just having “Oreo” involved. Every gathering easily becomes better with this dessert on the table.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Cheesecake

Mississippi Mud Pie

Chocolate lovers hit the jackpot with Mississippi Mud Pie thanks to layers that feel indulgent. This dish always keeps dessert time exciting with its fudgy, satisfying texture. Perfect for parties or personal moments when chocolate is a must. Serve it any way, and there’s rarely a crumb left.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Mushroom Pasta

Close-up of fusilli pasta with mushrooms, garnished with rosemary and black pepper. — Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm, earthy comfort shows up every time with Mushroom Pasta, turning weeknight dinners into something easy. This dish keeps things simple yet hearty, offering reliable satisfaction at the table. Perfect for pairing with anything, it doesn’t disappoint. Kids enjoy the fuss-free nature and simple flavors.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pasta

Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

A slice of Reese's pie sits on a cake slice, ready to be served. — Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for a dessert that steals the show, Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie does just that. It’s indulgent without being over-the-top, and yes, the kids love it. This pie is all about layering comforting sweetness with just the right amount of richness. You’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner, it’s consistently a hit.
Get the Recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

Pasta alla Norma

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs. — Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dinners don’t have to be complicated, and Pasta alla Norma proves that simple dishes can still feel special. Its hearty flavors keep everyone coming back for seconds. The kids won’t even think twice, this is one pasta dish they happily eat. It’s an easy dinner solution that’s perfect for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Slice of cheesecake topped with caramel, pretzel, pecan, and sea salt on a plate, with a spoon beside it. — Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A dessert that’s worth the hype is Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Every bite strikes a balance that makes people forget how filling this classic is. The kids love the sweetness, while the grown-ups enjoy its depth. It’s always a crowd-pleaser and an easy way to embrace comfort.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork. — Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You know a side dish is good when everyone asks for more, and Scalloped Potatoes always deliver. The creamy texture and golden top always win the hearts of picky eaters. Kids are quick to scoop up second helpings, so doubles are often necessary. It’s perfect for rounding out any comfort food dinner.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Scones

Breakfast for dinner works especially well when Scones are involved. They’re crumbly, slightly sweet, and can be customized to your liking. Served with butter, jam, or whatever you’ve got on hand, they’re sure to be a hit. Quick to throw together, they’re great for a last-minute option.
Get the Recipe: Scones

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Close-up of a baked spinach and artichoke dip in a dark dish, showing a golden brown, bubbly cheese topping with a portion scooped out, revealing the creamy interior. — Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A warm starter like Spinach Artichoke Dip can double as dinner on its own. It’s creamy, cheesy, and good with just about any dipper you’ve got. Whether it’s a snack dinner or part of a bigger spread, it always disappears fast. Nobody seems to complain when this dip shows up.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Sopapilla Cheesecake

A piece of cheesecake on a plate next to a bowl. — Sopapilla Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dessert doesn’t get easier than Sopapilla Cheesecake after dinner. It’s rich, buttery, and has a perfect balance of textures. This sheet-pan dessert is great for feeding a crowd or saving for lunches later. Simple to make but hard to stop eating, it’s a reliable choice.
Get the Recipe: Sopapilla Cheesecake

Tortellini Soup

A close-up of creamy tortellini with spinach and fresh basil leaves. — Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

After a long day, a bowl of Tortellini Soup is like a warm hug. It’s cheesy, hearty, and loaded with comforting ingredients. This soup works as a full meal, so there’s no need to overthink sides. It’s an easy win when you need something that checks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Sweet Potato Tacos

Two tacos on a plate with a sauce. — Sweet Potato Tacos. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You’ll love how easy these are to whip up when you need something filling. Sweet Potato Tacos are loaded with goodness that everyone loves. They’re perfect for making dinner without complaints from picky eaters. They’re fun, simple, and bring something different to your table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Tacos

Tiramisu Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of layered tiramisu cake with cream, coffee-soaked sponge, and dusted cocoa powder on top, served on a white plate. — Tiramisu Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dessert lovers won’t be able to say no to this treat. Tiramisu Cheesecake blends creamy with a touch of richness in a way everyone loves. Perfect for finishing off a cozy meal with friends or family. It feels like a treat but keeps things simple and easy.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Cheesecake

Vegetarian Shepherds Pie

A cast iron skillet filled with vegetable shepherd's pie, topped with mashed potatoes and garnished with rosemary sprigs and chopped parsley. Two spoons are placed inside. — Vegetarian Shepherds Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Comfort food doesn’t get better or easier than Vegetarian Shepherds Pie. This dish is hearty enough to please everyone at the table. It’s a great way to gather the whole gang for dinner without any complaints. You’ll want this on your list for any chill weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Shepherds Pie

Veggie Burger

Need something solid and quick for dinner? Veggie Burger easily turns into a meal everyone can get behind. It’s an easy option that always feels laid-back yet satisfying. Perfect for a no-fuss dinner that keeps both kids and adults happy.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Burger

Penne Alla Vodka

Here’s something to make pasta night feel special. Penne Alla Vodka packs just the kind of flavors most folks look for in comfort food. It’s creamy, delicious, and always a hit with the family. Keep it simple or pair it with a salad, the choice is yours!
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka