30 Fun and Delicious Valentine’s Day Dinners Perfect for Kids

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for adults – it’s the perfect time to show your little ones how much you love them with a fun, festive dinner! If you’re looking for ways to make this day extra special for your kids, I’ve got you covered with 30 creative and easy Valentine’s Day dinner ideas that will have them smiling from ear to ear. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a special meal for your little ones, these recipes will help you create a memorable, heart-filled experience.

I know that getting kids to eat something new can sometimes be a challenge, but these ideas are not only kid-friendly – they’re also packed with love and fun! From heart-shaped pizzas to playful pasta dishes, I’ve rounded up a variety of meals that are sure to make your Valentine’s dinner both delicious and delightful. Plus, many of these meals are simple enough for even the tiniest hands to help prepare, making it a perfect opportunity for some family bonding time.

So, whether you’re celebrating with a big family dinner or just want to surprise your kids with something extra sweet, these Valentine’s Day dinner ideas are sure to bring joy to the table. Let’s dive in and get ready to cook up some love this February 14th!

Make sure you also take a look at some of my other Valentine’s Day ideas:

• 25 Valentine’s Day Mocktails
• 25 Valentine’s Day Cocktails
• 30 Valentine’s Day Pasta Recipes for Two
• 21 Valentine’s Day Cookie Recipes
• 30 Irresistible Slow Cooker Valentine’s Dinner Recipes

1. Heart-Shaped Pizza

Servings: 2-4

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pizza dough
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Assorted toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, olives, etc.)
• Olive oil (for brushing)
• Italian seasoning (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a heart shape.
3. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil.
5. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Let the kids add their favorite toppings.
8. Sprinkle Italian seasoning if desired.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

2. Strawberry and Banana Smoothie Bowls

For Valentine’s Day breakfast or a sweet snack, I love making strawberry and banana smoothie bowls for the kids. They’re not only delicious and nutritious but also so much fun to decorate with heart-shaped toppings.

Servings: 2

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen strawberries
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup yogurt (plain or flavored)
• 1/2 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
• Toppings: sliced bananas, granola, shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, and fresh strawberries

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine frozen strawberries, banana, yogurt, and milk. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the smoothie mixture into bowls.
3. Let the kids decorate their bowls with their choice of toppings.
4. Serve immediately with spoons and enjoy!

3. Valentine’s Day Pasta Hearts

Valentine’s Day Pasta Hearts are one of my favorite ways to make dinner feel festive and fun for the kids. The heart-shaped pasta turns an ordinary meal into something special, perfect for sharing the love around the table.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of heart-shaped pasta (or regular pasta if unavailable)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the heart-shaped pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, heat marinara sauce over medium heat. If using, add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Combine the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve in bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy your festive pasta!

4. Love Bug Tacos

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 8 small soft tortillas
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup black olives (sliced)
• Sour cream (for decoration)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat and add taco seasoning according to package instructions. Stir in water and simmer for a few minutes.
2. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
3. To assemble, place a spoonful of taco meat in the center of each tortilla.
4. Let the kids add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese.
5. For the love bug effect, use black olives for the eyes and a dollop of sour cream for a smile.
6. Serve immediately and let the kids enjoy their creations!

5. Heart-Shaped Chicken Nuggets

Heart-Shaped Chicken Nuggets are always a hit with my kids on Valentine’s Day. They’re a simple yet festive way to make a favorite meal feel extra special and full of love.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or oil for baking

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In one bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place the beaten eggs. In a third bowl, place breadcrumbs.
3. Take a piece of chicken, coat it in the flour mixture, dip it in the egg, and then coat it in breadcrumbs.
4. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to shape the nuggets, or form them by hand.
5. Place the nuggets on the baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
7. Serve with dipping sauces like ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.

6. Valentine’s Day Fruit Skewers

Valentine’s Day Fruit Skewers are a fun and healthy way to celebrate with the kids. I love how easy they are to put together, and the heart-shaped fruit adds a sweet touch to the day.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1 cup watermelon, cut into heart shapes (using a cookie cutter)
• 1 cup pineapple, cut into chunks
• 1 cup grapes (red or green)
• 1 cup blueberries
• Skewers or popsicle sticks

Instructions:

1. Prepare the fruit by cutting strawberries, watermelon, and pineapple into appropriate sizes.
2. Let the kids thread the fruit onto the skewers in a fun pattern, alternating colors and shapes.
3. Arrange the finished skewers on a platter.
4. Serve as a refreshing side dish or dessert for dinner!

7. Cupid’s Veggie Pizza

Cupid’s Veggie Pizza is a great way to make Valentine’s Day dinner both fun and colorful for the kids. I love adding heart-shaped veggies or mozzarella to create a festive meal that’s as wholesome as it is adorable.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pizza crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup assorted vegetables (bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, spinach, olives, etc.)
• Mozzarella balls (optional)
• Italian seasoning (optional)
• Heart-shaped cookie cutter (optional for veggies)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven according to pizza crust instructions.
2. Roll out the pizza crust on a baking sheet.
3. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the crust.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Let the kids arrange the assorted vegetables on the pizza. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut some veggies or mozzarella into heart shapes for added fun! 
6. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning if desired.
7. Bake according to crust instructions until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

8. Sweetheart Meatballs with Spaghetti

Sweetheart Meatballs with Spaghetti is my go-to for a cozy and festive Valentine’s Day dinner. Shaping the meatballs into little hearts adds such a fun and loving touch that the kids absolutely adore.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 jar marinara sauce
• 8 ounces spaghetti
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape the mixture into heart-shaped meatballs and place them on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a saucepan, heat marinara sauce over medium heat.
7. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for a few minutes.
8. Serve the meatballs and sauce over spaghetti, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

9. Valentine’s Day Pancake Stack

Valentine’s Day Pancake Stack is the perfect way to start the day with love. I enjoy stacking fluffy heart-shaped pancakes and topping them with berries and syrup for a breakfast the kids can’t resist.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Heart-shaped cookie cutter
• Toppings: whipped cream, strawberries, chocolate chips, syrup

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Lightly grease the skillet and pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet. Use the heart-shaped cookie cutter to shape the pancake.
6. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.
8. Stack the pancakes on plates and let kids decorate with whipped cream, strawberries, chocolate chips, and syrup.

10. Heart-Shaped Quesadillas

Heart-Shaped Quesadillas are a quick and easy way to make Valentine’s Day lunch or dinner extra special. The kids love the fun shape, and I love how simple it is to whip up a festive meal they’ll enjoy.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• 1 cup cooked chicken or beans (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers or other veggies (optional)
• Salsa or guacamole for dipping

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese evenly over it.
3. If using, add cooked chicken or beans and diced veggies on top of the cheese.
4. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover with another tortilla.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown, then carefully flip and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is melted.
6. Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes from the quesadilla.
7. Serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping.

11. Valentine’s Day Sushi Rolls

Valentine’s Day Sushi Rolls are a unique and adorable way to celebrate with the kids. Shaping the rolls into hearts adds a festive twist to a fun, hands-on meal they’ll love helping to make.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sushi rice, cooked and cooled
• 4 sheets of nori (seaweed)
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup cream cheese (optional)
• Soy sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat or a clean surface.
2. Wet your hands to prevent sticking, and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Let the kids add their choice of fillings (cucumber, carrot, avocado, and cream cheese) in a line along the bottom edge of the rice-covered nori.
4. Carefully roll the sushi away from you, using the mat to help create a tight roll.
5. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the sushi into bite-sized pieces.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve with soy sauce for dipping.

12. Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Pops

Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Pops are a sweet and simple treat that’s always a hit on Valentine’s Day. I love how easy they are to make, and the kids enjoy the fun of eating strawberries on a stick!

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, washed and dried
• 1 cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white chocolate)
• Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or coconut for decoration
• Lollipop sticks or skewers

Instructions:

1. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
2. Insert a lollipop stick or skewer into the top of each strawberry.
3. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
4. Roll or sprinkle the chocolate-covered strawberries in your choice of decorations (sprinkles, nuts, or coconut).
5. Place the decorated strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them cool until the chocolate hardens.
6. Serve as a sweet dessert after dinner!

13. Valentine’s Day Sliders

Valentine’s Day Sliders are a fun and festive way to make dinner extra special. Shaping the buns or patties into hearts adds an extra loving touch that the kids can’t get enough of! But they’ll love them just as much as they are!

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small slider buns
• Toppings: cheese slices, lettuce, tomato slices, ketchup, and mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill or a skillet over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small patties and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to shape them if desired.
4. Cook the patties on the grill or skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
5. Assemble the sliders by placing a patty on each bun and letting kids add their favorite toppings.
6. Serve with a side of veggie sticks or chips.

14. Valentine’s Day Macaroni and Cheese Hearts

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Heart-shaped cookie cutter

Instructions:

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
6. Let the mixture cool slightly, then use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes from the macaroni and cheese.
7. Serve warm, optionally with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top.

15. Valentine’s Day Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups yogurt (flavored or plain)
• 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 banana, sliced
• 1 cup granola
• Heart-shaped sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

1. In clear cups or bowls, layer yogurt, a layer of mixed berries, and a layer of granola.
2. Repeat the layers until the cups are full.
3. Top with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of heart-shaped sprinkles for decoration.
4. Serve immediately as a refreshing dessert.

16. Valentine’s Day Stuffed Peppers

Valentine’s Day Stuffed Peppers are a festive way to serve up a hearty and wholesome dinner. They’re packed with flavor and make a delightful addition to a love-filled celebration.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey (or black beans for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, ground meat (or beans), diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
5. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

17. Heart-Shaped Potato Waffles

Heart-Shaped Potato Waffles are a fun and crispy treat that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day. They make a great side dish or snack that the kids will absolutely love.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated potatoes (about 2 large potatoes)
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or oil for the waffle iron

Instructions:

1. Preheat the waffle iron and spray it with cooking spray or brush with oil.
2. In a bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Place a portion of the potato mixture into the preheated waffle iron and close the lid. Cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden brown and crispy.
4. Carefully remove the waffles and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes if desired.
5. Serve warm with ketchup or dipping sauce.

18. Valentine’s Day Pita Pizzas

Valentine’s Day Pita Pizzas are a quick and customizable meal that’s perfect for celebrating with the kids. Everyone can add their favorite toppings for a fun and festive dinner.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 whole wheat or regular pita breads
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Assorted toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, etc.)
• Heart-shaped cookie cutter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the pita breads on a baking sheet. You can either use them as they come or cut the pita breads into heart shapes.
3. Spread pizza sauce evenly over each pita.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Let the kids add their favorite toppings to create their own designs.
6. If desired, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes from some of the toppings (like cheese or veggies) to make them extra festive.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

19. Valentine’s Day Rainbow Pasta

Valentine’s Day Rainbow Pasta is a colorful and festive way to make dinner extra special. The vibrant hues add a playful touch that the kids will absolutely adore.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (various colors)
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes, broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the veggies are tender.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

20. Heart-Shaped Fruit and Cheese Platter

A Heart-Shaped Fruit and Cheese Platter is a simple yet elegant way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with the kids. It’s a delicious mix of sweet and savory that’s perfect for snacking or as a light appetizer.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup watermelon, cut into heart shapes (using a cookie cutter)
• 1 cup grapes (red or green)
• 1 cup cheese cubes (cheddar, mozzarella, or any favorite cheese)
• Heart-shaped cookie cutter
• Toothpicks for serving

Instructions:

1. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the watermelon slices.
2. Arrange the strawberries, heart-shaped watermelon, grapes, and cheese cubes on a large platter.
3. Use toothpicks to create fun fruit and cheese skewers for kids to enjoy.
4. Serve as a light and healthy dinner option or appetizer.

21. Valentine’s Day Chili

Valentine’s Day Chili is a warm and comforting meal that’s perfect for a cozy celebration with the kids. It’s hearty, flavorful, and brings everyone together around the table.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 packet chili seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, diced avocado, tortilla chips

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and chili seasoning to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the chili in bowls and let kids add their favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced avocado.

22. Valentine’s Day Mini Pancake Stacks

Valentine’s Day Mini Pancake Stacks are an adorable way to start the day with the kids. They’re fun to stack, easy to customize, and make breakfast feel extra special.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pancake mix
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• Butter or oil for cooking
• Toppings: sliced strawberries, blueberries, whipped cream, maple syrup, chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine pancake mix, milk, and egg. Stir until just combined.
2. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
3. Pour small amounts of batter into the skillet to form mini pancakes (about 2 inches in diameter).
4. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side.
5. Stack the mini pancakes on plates and let kids add their favorite toppings to create their own pancake creations.

23. Valentine’s Day Sweet Potato Hearts

Valentine’s Day Sweet Potato Hearts are a delicious and wholesome way to add a festive touch to your meal. They’re a kid-friendly side dish that’s both nutritious and fun.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Heart-shaped cookie cutter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into rounds about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes from each sweet potato round.
4. Place the sweet potato hearts on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Serve warm as a delightful side dish.

24. Valentine’s Day Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cheese soup)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Heart-shaped baking dish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, shredded cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. If using a heart-shaped baking dish, pour the mixture into the dish. Otherwise, transfer to a greased casserole dish.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.

25. Valentine’s Day Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
5. Fill each cooked shell with the cheese and spinach mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

26. Valentine’s Day Fruit Pizza

Valentine’s Day Fruit Pizza is a sweet and colorful treat that’s perfect for celebrating with the kids. Topped with fresh fruit and a creamy base, it’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 tube of sugar cookie dough
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Assorted fresh fruits (strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, bananas, etc.)
• Heart-shaped cookie cutter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven according to the sugar cookie dough instructions.
2. Press the sugar cookie dough into a round pizza pan or baking sheet to form a crust.
3. Bake according to package instructions until golden brown. Let cool completely.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled cookie crust.
6. Let kids decorate the pizza with their choice of fresh fruits, arranging them in fun patterns or shapes.
7. If desired, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes from the fruit.
8. Slice and serve as a sweet dessert!

27. Valentine’s Day Chicken and Veggie Skewers

Valentine’s Day Chicken and Veggie Skewers are a healthy and flavorful way to celebrate with the kids. They’re fun to eat and packed with colorful, wholesome ingredients everyone will enjoy.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Let the kids thread the chicken and veggies onto the skewers, alternating between chicken, bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
4. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender. If using the oven, place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake for the same amount of time.
5. Serve warm with a side of dipping sauce or a salad.

28. Valentine’s Day Taco Bar

A Valentine’s Day Taco Bar is a fun and interactive way to make dinner special for the kids. Everyone gets to build their own tacos with their favorite toppings, turning the meal into a festive celebration.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or chicken
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 8 small taco shells (hard or soft)
• Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, black olives, and corn

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat and add taco seasoning according to package instructions. Stir in a little water and simmer for a few minutes.
2. Prepare the taco shells according to package instructions (warm if necessary).
3. Set up a taco bar by placing the cooked meat and all the toppings in separate bowls.
4. Let the kids assemble their own tacos by filling the shells with their favorite ingredients.
5. Serve with a side of tortilla chips and salsa.

29. Valentine’s Day Cheesy Cauliflower Bites

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cauliflower florets, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
5. Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

30. Valentine’s Day Chocolate Fondue

Valentine’s Day Chocolate Fondue is a delightful way to bring everyone together for a sweet treat. The kids will love dipping their favorite fruits and snacks into the rich, creamy chocolate.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white chocolate)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Assorted dippables: strawberries, banana slices, marshmallows, pretzels, and graham crackers

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
2. Transfer the melted chocolate to a fondue pot or a heat-proof bowl.
3. Arrange the assorted dippables on a platter.
4. Let the kids dip the fruits and treats into the chocolate using skewers or forks.
5. Enjoy the sweet treats together!