Getting kids to eat fish can be a challenge, but with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes, you’ll be hooked! Whether your little ones are picky eaters or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered. From crispy fish sticks to cheesy tuna quesadillas, and even fun fish tacos with avocado, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are all kid-approved! In this article, we’ll dive into our top 20 picks for delicious and easy fish recipes that your kids will love. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on seafood, you’re sure to find some new favorites. So grab a plate of fishy fun and get ready to reel in the smiles!
Crispy Baked Fish Sticks
Transform your favorite fish sticks into a healthier, crispy baked version with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of cod or tilapia fillets, cut into stick shapes
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each fish stick into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated fish sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips: For extra crunch, bake at 425°F (220°C) for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Cheesy Tuna Quesadillas
Looking for a unique snack or meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further! This recipe combines the richness of tuna with the creaminess of cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, chopped cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the tuna mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Fish Finger Tacos with Avocado
Elevate your taco game with this innovative recipe featuring crispy fish fingers and creamy avocado. A perfect combination of textures and flavors!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of cod or pollock, drained and cut into finger-shaped pieces
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 taco shells
– Avocado for serving (2 avocados, sliced)
– Lime wedges, salt, and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs with lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge fish fingers in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing cooked fish fingers into shells and topping with sliced avocado.
7. Garnish with lime wedges, salt, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Salmon Patties
A classic recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. These salmon patties are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or canned salmon (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine salmon, panko breadcrumbs, onion, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix).
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Place the patties in the preheated skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as tartar sauce, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Hidden Veggie Fish Nuggets
Transform traditional fish nuggets into a nutritious treat by hiding finely chopped veggies within the batter. This recipe is perfect for picky eaters and health-conscious families.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (cod, tilapia, or haddock), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Breading of your choice (e.g., breadcrumbs, cornflakes, or panko)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, combine fish, carrot, zucchini, onion, garlic, egg, and olive oil. Process until well combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions. Shape each portion into a nugget shape.
4. Dip each nugget in breading of your choice.
5. Place nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rainbow Trout with Lemon Butter
This recipe combines the flaky texture of rainbow trout with a zesty lemon butter sauce, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 rainbow trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place trout fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, softened butter, and garlic.
5. Spoon the lemon butter mixture evenly over each trout fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fun Fish and Chips
Get ready to dive into a tasty treat with this classic combination of fish and chips! This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups potato chips, crushed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip fish strips into buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture. Place coated fish on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry fish strips for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove fish from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot with crushed potato chips and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kid-Approved Tuna Pasta Salad
A simple and delicious recipe that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that the whole family will love!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, macaroni)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. mayonnaise
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine flaked tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard.
4. Add the mayonnaise mixture to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the tuna mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Glazed Salmon Bites
Sweet and Tangy Glazed Salmon Bites Recipe
A sweet and tangy glaze elevates the flavor of salmon bites, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add salmon pieces to the glaze and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange salmon bites in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top (if using) and garnish with chopped parsley.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Fishy Mac and Cheese
Take your macaroni and cheese game to the next level with this indulgent recipe that adds a fishy twist. With succulent cod, creamy cheese sauce, and al dente pasta, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup cooked cod (flaked)
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir over medium heat until cheese is melted and smooth.
3. Add cooked cod and stir gently to combine.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with butter.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Fish Sliders with Tartar Sauce
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized fish sliders that pack a punch of flavor and freshness. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb cod fillet, cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tartar Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Hamburger buns, toasted
• Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and egg.
3. Add cod pieces to the mixture and toss until coated.
4. Form into small patties, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a fish patty onto a toasted bun, followed by tartar sauce and desired toppings (if using).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Oven-Fried Cod with Honey Mustard Dip
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that yields crispy, flavorful cod and a tangy honey mustard dip. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the cod:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the honey mustard dip:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each cod fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place coated cod on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the dip.
8. Serve cod with honey mustard dip and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Panko-Crusted Tilapia Fingers
Elevate your seafood game with this easy and flavorful recipe for Panko-crusted tilapia fingers. A perfect combination of crispy exterior and tender interior, these bite-sized morsels are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each), cut into finger-like strips
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia finger into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated fingers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Tuna Melt Sandwiches
These mouthwatering sandwiches combine the richness of tuna with the creaminess of melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy bread. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped onion
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 slices of white bread
– 1 tablespoon of butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, and chopped onion until well combined.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in the skillet.
5. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the tuna mixture on top of the bread.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tuna.
7. Place another slice of bread, butter-side up, on top.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
9. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes per sandwich
Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing combination of crispy fish, crunchy slaw, and sweet mango salsa. This flavorful dish is perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Taco shells, lime wedges, and cilantro for serving
– Mango Salsa:
+ 2 ripe mangos, diced
+ 1/2 red onion, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
+ Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. Dredge fish pieces in flour mixture (flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper).
2. Fry fish until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
4. Assemble tacos by placing fried fish in shells, topping with mango salsa, and garnishing with cilantro and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick and Easy Tuna Casserole
A comforting and satisfying casserole that’s ready in no time! This tuna-based dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup of pasta (such as elbow macaroni)
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, milk, and melted butter. Mix well.
4. Add cooked pasta, shredded cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi for Kids
This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a deliciously flavorful shrimp scampi that kids will love.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until melted and smooth.
7. Serve the shrimp scampi with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fish and Veggie Skewers
A simple and flavorful recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering. This dish is great for using up leftover vegetables and can be customized with your favorite fish and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as tilapia, mahi-mahi, or cod), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices (such as lemon zest, paprika, or chili powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread fish, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your desired herbs or spices.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Smiley Face Fish Cakes
Get ready to make some fin-tastic fish cakes that will put a smile on everyone’s face! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a fun addition to your next seafood-themed party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine fish, panko, onion, garlic, egg, and lemon juice. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size.
3. Shape each portion into a patty and use a cookie cutter or a knife to create a smiley face design (eyes made from black olives or sliced green onions).
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the fish cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Pepper Baked Cod
Lemon Pepper Baked Cod: A Bright and Zesty Twist on a Classic Recipe!
To make this flavorful dish, we’ll be using fresh lemon juice, black pepper, and some simple seasonings to bring out the best in tender cod fillets.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tbsp black pepper
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, black pepper, thyme, and paprika.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the cod.
6. Sprinkle salt to taste.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the cod.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and kid-friendly fish recipes that will please even the pickiest eaters? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering dishes that are sure to become family favorites. From crispy baked fish sticks and cheesy tuna quesadillas to fun fish and chips and sweet and tangy glazed salmon bites, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover easy-to-make recipes that incorporate hidden veggies and creative flavor combinations to make mealtime a breeze. Get ready to reel in the compliments with these tasty and kid-approved fish dishes! 🐟