We’re Learning to Cook — Together
Lately, the boys and I have found ourselves in the kitchen more often than not, sleeves rolled up, spoons in hand, and ready to tackle the mystery that is home-cooked food. To be clear, none of us are seasoned chefs — we’re learning as we go. But that’s part of the fun. Cooking together has quickly become our version of quality time. It’s messy, unpredictable, and sometimes hilarious — but we’re doing it.
Because we’re all still finding our footing, we’ve been scouring the internet and our favorite cookbooks for recipes that are truly simple. Think: minimal ingredients, forgiving instructions, and no need for any fancy equipment or intimidating techniques. Our motto is: “If the eight-year-old can do it, we can probably pull it off too.”
That’s why I perked up when I saw Jenny’s post about a turkey chili recipe titled, “My 8-Year-Old Made This.” That’s not just a catchy title — it’s a glowing endorsement. With only a few pantry staples, a big pot, and a little supervision, this chili came together in no time. The boys were in charge of measuring, stirring, and taste-testing, of course. The end result? A cozy, hearty bowl of comfort food that got thumbs up all around the table. Bonus: we made enough for leftovers, which is a small parenting miracle in itself.
After our chili success, I started wondering: what other kid-friendly, beginner-level recipes are out there that could turn into our next kitchen win? I’m talking about the kind of dishes that welcome chaos, tolerate small spills, and reward effort with something warm and delicious.
A few ideas on our current to-cook list:
- Breakfast-for-Dinner Pancakes: No one complains when pancakes are on the menu. They’re easy, satisfying, and offer endless mix-in possibilities (the boys are currently in a chocolate chip phase).
- Baked Ziti: A cheesy, gooey pasta bake is one of those “dump it in the dish and bake” miracles that feels more impressive than it is complicated.
- Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggies: Throw everything on one tray, season it up, and roast until golden. This one’s great for teaching the kids how to use the oven safely and why roasted broccoli is actually magic.
- Taco Night: Everyone assembles their own — which somehow makes dinner feel like a party.
- Mini Pizzas on English Muffins: Sauce, cheese, and toppings on a split muffin, then bake. It’s like a little art project you get to eat.
We’ve also had a few (gentle) kitchen fails. A banana bread that refused to rise. A scrambled egg moment that leaned more “burnt bits” than “fluffy delight.” But that’s part of the learning curve — and to be honest, those missteps lead to the best laughs.
Cooking together has brought a kind of rhythm to our evenings that I didn’t expect. It’s not just about feeding ourselves — it’s about slowing down and doing something together. The boys get proud of the meals they help make. They’re starting to understand terms like “simmer” and “fold.” And I’ve stopped aiming for perfection. The goal now is simply to enjoy the process, mess and all.
So if you’ve got any recipes up your sleeve — especially the kind that can be made with a child perched on a stool beside you asking, “Can I stir now?” — I’m all ears.
Let’s keep this “we’re-all-learning” kitchen vibe going. Because honestly? It’s kind of the best part of the day.
