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CLOSEQuick 30-minute meal ideas the kids will love
Last Updated on 22nd April 2025 by Hannah
Busy week? Hungry kids? Zero time?
We’ve got you covered with five flavour-packed dinners that bring the joy back to dinnertime. Whether you’re dealing with picky eaters, meat-free Mondays or trying to sneak in more greens, there’s a tasty solution here for every kind of family night.
Big on flavour, light on faff, these speedy recipes make mealtimes smoother (and tastier). Dive in or explore the full Gousto menu to find your next go-to dinner.
Five 30-minute meals for busy weeknights
Gousto’s 10-Minute Meals and Prepped In 5 range are bursting with bold flavours without the hassle of spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy families looking for new meal ideas that will go down well with the kids or couples looking to make the most of date night, these 30-minute meals can be created in no time. We’ve picked out our five favourite recipes from our Cookbook to spark new dinner inspiration.
1. Oven Baked Creamy Chorizo & Leek Pasta With Salad
Cosy, creamy and full of smoky goodness, this bake is sure to become a weekly staple in your home. Golden chorizo, sweet leeks, and a crispy top make this meal one that gets the whole family around the table talking about their day. As a bonus, the meal includes a salad, so it’s technically balanced.
What makes this recipe good for kids?
- Creamy, cheesy sauce is always a win
- Chorizo adds a smoky kick without being too spicy
- Leeks are soft and subtle, making them great for veg-suspicious little ones
What makes the recipe so speedy?
- Everything bakes together in one dish with minimal stirring or fuss
- Prepped in minutes, then the oven does the hard work
- The salad doesn’t require lots of prep, just a drizzle of olive oil and a crack of black pepper
2. Chicken & Butternut Squash Korma With Rice And Naan
Sneak in those extra veggies with our twist on a classic family dish. Sweet butternut squash and tender chicken simmer in a rich, mellow sauce that even picky eaters will love. Quick to make, easy to love and ideal for nights when you want dinner sorted without the negotiation.
What makes this recipe good for kids?
- Mild and mellow flavours
- Naturally sweet squash for hidden veggie points
- Saucy, soft textures that are easy for little mouths
What makes the recipe so speedy?
- Chicken and squash cook quickly in a single pan
- Fluffy rice and shop-bought naan keep it simple
- Ready in around 10 minutes with minimal fuss
3. Smoky Halloumi Tacos With Tomato Salsa
Taco Tuesday just got a cheesy upgrade. These smoky halloumi beauties are bursting with bold flavour, quick to whip up and totally meat-free without skimping on satisfaction. They’re a fun and laid-back way to get everyone stuck in, no matter their age or appetite. It’s a great option for hands-on eaters and little sous-chefs who love to build, squish and snack as they go.
What makes this recipe good for kids?
- Hands-on, build-your-own dinner keeps things fun and engaging
- Halloumi is chewy and mild, so it’s great for young cheese lovers
- Easy to mix and match toppings for different preferences
What makes the recipe so speedy?
- Halloumi fries in minutes while the salsa’s fresh and fuss-free
- No need for oven time or long simmering
- Easy to put together for a grab-and-go midweek option
4. Smoky Chilli Con Carne With Rice
Still craving those smoky flavours but want something a bit meatier? Our speedy chilli con carne with rice brings the heat in all the right ways. Hearty, comforting and endlessly customisable; go mild for the littles or sneak in some hot sauce for the grown-ups.
What makes this recipe good for kids?
- A customisable mild base that’s easy to spice up or down
- Familiar flavours with hidden goodness in the sauce
- Serve with rice, nachos, or even jacket potatoes for endless combos
What makes the recipe so speedy?
- Simple ingredients that cook quickly and together
- One-pan magic means fewer dishes
- Batch-friendly for leftovers or next-day lunches
5. Creamy Mustard Salmon With Crushed Potatoes And Greens
For those with more adventurous children, this salmon dish delivers impressive flavour and presentation without the time commitment. This quick and creamy dish is surprisingly simple to make and mild enough for little taste buds. No fancy cheffing required, just a few fresh ingredients and a pan.
What makes this recipe good for kids?
- Creamy, mild mustard sauce keeps flavours mellow
- Soft textures all around, so no tough bites or unfamiliar textures
- A gentle way to introduce fish without it feeling too “fishy”
What makes the recipe so speedy?
- Part of our 10-Minute Meals range
- Everything comes together at once
- No long marinades or complicated prep—just pan, plate, and done
30-minute meal FAQs
Still unsure what to make for dinner? We’ve answered the most common questions about 30-minute meals to help you choose.
What are the best quick meals for kids?
Fresh pasta or gnocchi are great quick meals for kids, as they can take as little as five minutes to cook. Pair with a speedy sauce and a handful of hidden veggies for a delicious, no-fuss dinner. Check out our recipes for Spicy Chorizo & Cherry Tomato Spaghetti or Creamy Garlic Mushroom Gnocchi for some ideas.
How do I make a family dinner in 30 minutes?
Speed through making a family dinner in 30 minutes by using ingredients that don’t require complicated steps to prepare and cook. Stick to dishes which require minimal chopping or can be cooked all in one pan so save yourself rushing around the kitchen. Try our One-Pot Baked Herby Minestrone With Chilli and see how easy it is to do yourself.
What are some mess-free 30-minute meals?
Mess-free 30-minute meals are made in a single pot or pan and reduce your washing up. Think recipes like stews, soups and pastas like our Oven Baked Normandy-Style Chicken & Apple Casserole. Just throw all the ingredients into one pot and let the oven work its magic to create the dish for you.
Gousto’s quick and easy dinner ideas will make family dinner time a breeze
Gousto delivers recipe boxes to households across the UK, helping busy people spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones. With over 150 recipes to choose from every week, from 10-minute meals to everyday favourites, you’ll always find something that suits your family’s schedule, taste buds, and appetite.
Take the stress out of food planning and find out what’s on the menu this week.