10+ Fish Recipes for Kids: Fun and Easy Meals They’ll Love!

Cooking fish for kids can be a tasty and healthy way to introduce them to new flavors. Finding easy and enjoyable fish recipes can help make mealtime fun for your little ones. This article will share a variety of kid-friendly fish dishes that are not only nutritious but appealing to young taste buds.

Getting children to eat fish can sometimes be a challenge. With the right recipes, you can create meals that are both delicious and exciting for them. You’ll discover simple dishes that even picky eaters may enjoy.

1) Crispy Fish Nuggets

Crispy fish nuggets are a great way to introduce kids to seafood. They are tasty, easy to make, and perfect for dipping. You can enjoy them with ketchup, tartar sauce, or your favorite dip.

To make these nuggets, you’ll need fresh fish. Cod is a good choice because it’s mild in flavor. You can also use other white fish if you prefer.

The cooking time is quick. These nuggets can be ready in about 20 minutes. Plus, they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh white fish (like cod)
• 1 egg white
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the fish into nugget-sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, mix the egg white, lemon zest, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
4. Dip each fish piece into the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Place the nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and crispy.

2) Lemon Butter Cod

Lemon Butter Cod is a great dish for kids. It’s simple, tasty, and quick to make. The flaky cod pairs well with the bright flavor of lemon and rich butter.

You can prepare it in about 20 to 25 minutes. Just imagine the delicious smell filling your kitchen. It’s a healthy option that keeps everyone happy at dinner time.

You can serve it with veggies or rice for a complete meal. Kids can help squeeze the lemon juice, making it more fun.

Ingredients

• 2 cod fillets
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Place cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the mixture on top.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish is cooked through.

3) Homemade Fish Sticks

Making homemade fish sticks is easy and fun for you and your kids. They are healthier than store-bought options and have a tasty crunch. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite seasonings!

Start with fresh fish, like cod. Cut it into strips and coat each piece in seasoned breadcrumbs. Baking them gives you a crispy texture without frying.

You can serve these fish sticks with a simple tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon. Your kids will love dipping them!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh cod fillets
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut fish into strips.
3. Set up three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten egg, and one for breadcrumbs.
4. Dip each fish strip in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs.
5. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

4) Salmon Fried Rice

Salmon fried rice is a tasty and quick meal your kids will love. It’s a fun way to include fish in their diet while enjoying delicious flavors. You can whip it up in just 20 minutes!

This dish combines tender salmon with fluffy rice and colorful veggies. You can add peas, carrots, and even some scrambled eggs for extra protein. The soy sauce brings it all together with a savory taste.

Your kids can help with mixing the ingredients, making it a fun family activity.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup flaked cooked salmon
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup diced carrots
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
2. Add carrots and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Stir in the peas and cooked rice.
4. Push everything to the side and scramble the egg in the pan.
5. Mix the egg with the rice, then add salmon and soy sauce.
6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Sprinkle with green onions before serving.

5) Baked Fish Tacos

Baked fish tacos are a fun and easy dinner idea that kids will love. You can have these tasty tacos ready in about 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy nights.

Start with some seasoned fish fillets, like haddock or cod, that you can bake until they’re flaky and tender. Add a fresh cabbage slaw for crunch and a creamy sauce for flavor.

You can use taco shells or small tortillas to hold all the delicious fillings. Kids can personalize their tacos with toppings like salsa, cheese, or avocado.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) fish fillets (like haddock or cod)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Tortillas or taco shells
• Cabbage, shredded
• Creamy sauce (like chipotle or ranch)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the fish with chili powder, cumin, and salt.
3. Bake the fish for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
4. Prepare the cabbage slaw and sauce.
5. Serve the fish in tortillas or taco shells with toppings.

6) Fish Cakes with Dip

Fish cakes are a fun and tasty meal for kids. They are easy to make and can be paired with a delicious dip to add flavor.

You can use any white fish or salmon, mixed with mashed potatoes, and simple seasonings. This combination makes for a soft and tasty patty that kids usually enjoy.

For dipping, a mayo-based sauce or a tangy yogurt dip works well. This adds a special touch and a burst of flavor they will love.

Ingredients

• 1 can of fish (tuna or salmon)
• 350g potatoes
• 1 egg
• 30g cheddar cheese
• Optional vegetables (like carrots or peas)

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil the potatoes until soft, then mash them.
2. In a bowl, mix the fish, mashed potatoes, egg, cheddar, and any vegetables.
3. Shape the mixture into patties.
4. Cook in a hot pan with a little oil until golden brown.
5. Serve with your favorite dip!

7) Sheet Pan Fish and Chips

Sheet Pan Fish and Chips is a fun and easy meal that kids will love. This dish combines flaky fish with crispy potato wedges, all baked together for a tasty dinner.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need fish fillets, russet potatoes, oil, and some seasonings. The best part is that everything cooks on one sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the potatoes into sticks and toss them with oil and salt. Arrange them on the sheet pan.

Next, prepare the fish. Lightly coat it with oil and sprinkle your favorite seasonings. Place the fish on the pan with the potatoes for the last 10 minutes of baking.

The result? Delicious, crunchy fish and chips that are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into sticks
• Canola oil
• Seasoned salt
• Fish fillets

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut potatoes and toss with oil and salt.
3. Spread potatoes on the sheet pan.
4. Bake for 25 minutes.
5. Coat fish with oil and seasonings.
6. Add fish to the pan and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

8) Cod with Tomato Sauce

Cod with tomato sauce is a simple and tasty dish perfect for kids. The mild flavor of cod pairs well with the rich and savory tomato sauce.

To make it, start by gently poaching the cod in the sauce. This method keeps the fish tender and moist. You can serve it with rice or pasta for a complete meal.

It’s a great way to introduce fish to your family’s diet. Plus, you can sneak in some veggies by adding chopped bell peppers or spinach to the sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs cod fillets
• 2 cups canned diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F or 180°C).
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and gently add the cod fillets.
5. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.

9) Grilled Tuna Wraps

Grilled tuna wraps are a tasty and fun meal for kids. They are easy to make and allow for lots of creativity with toppings. You can use whole wheat or regular tortillas for this recipe.

You will need canned tuna, which is a great source of protein. Mixing it with some light mayo and veggies makes a flavorful filling. Add lettuce and cheese for extra crunch and taste.

Once you have your filling, place it in a tortilla and roll it up. For a bit of extra fun, grill the wrap for a warm and crispy finish. It takes just a few minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 can tuna, drained
• 2 tablespoons light mayonnaise
• ½ cup diced vegetables (like bell peppers and cucumbers)
• 1 large tortilla
• Lettuce
• Cheese slices

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix tuna and mayonnaise.
2. Add diced vegetables and stir.
3. Place the mixture on the tortilla.
4. Add lettuce and cheese.
5. Roll the tortilla tightly.
6. Grill on medium heat (350°F/175°C) for 2-3 minutes on each side.

10) Tilapia with Garlic Butter

Tilapia with garlic butter is a simple and tasty dish that kids will love. The fish is mild in flavor and cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy nights.

To start, you will need fresh tilapia fillets. These fillets are easy to handle and prepare.

The garlic butter adds a wonderful taste. You can mix melted butter with minced garlic and a squeeze of lemon for a zesty kick.

Bake the tilapia in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Serve it with a side of veggies or rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 tilapia fillets
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.

3. Arrange tilapia fillets in a baking dish.

4. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the fillets.

5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

6. Bake for about 15 minutes, until flaky.

7. Garnish with parsley if desired.