Looking to introduce multi-component dishes to your kiddo but don’t know where to start? Pasta or rice are as good a launchpad as any: think peas and rice, biryani, stir fried noodles, etc. One pot. One set of ingredients for everyone. One goal. In other words: look for dishes that require little modification from its original form, and thus can be enjoyed by adults and child(ren) alike without terribly compromising the needs of either. This easy pasta recipe for toddlers does all that--and more.
It's the clasic orecchiette pasta with sausage and broccoli combo, which we're sure you’ve seen on countless Italian restaurant menus--but did you know it comes together in about 20 minutes, relies almost entirely on ingredients likely already in your pantry and fridge, and can be modified easily without tampering with its core tastes and textures? Our changes to the typical recipe are minor but sensible: switching to regular ol’ broccoli rather than using rabe (less bitter), doing meatballs instead of just little nubbins of meat (easier texture), eliminating the red pepper flakes (obviously), and making it a bit brothier than typical (because little children heart soup). The flavors and the textures are nearly the same; the switch to meatball form helps the dish’s components feel visible and coherent. You’ll love it, too–and so might your child.
And check out all of our great and easy pasta recipes for toddlers!
Orecchiette with beef and broccoli, an Italian classic, makes for a quick and easy pasta recipe for toddlers.
Having seen mom and dad consume their faire share of “grain bowls” and the like, my son has come to expect his grains in a bowl, which we oblige because the novelty breeds interest; your mileage–and serving vessel of choice–may and/or should vary. When we serve, we interweave each of the three components, making each piece of pasta, meat, and broccoli very visible so the first impression is positive; you can load up the bowl when your child wants a second helping. If your child tends to like soup, or if you just don’t know how it’s going to go, add some of the broth from the pan to the bowl.
Servings 4
Serving Size one small bowl
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Brad (the Dad) is the founder and Chief Recipe Officer of New Dad's Kitchen. His own cooking/feeding journey started humbly during his son's infancy, preparing and managing his son's bottle intake in order to support his wife; it has since blossomed into a full-on passion to feed his child and family delicious and healthy meals that can satisfy both a toddler and his very tired parents.
