Quick Dinners

Quick Family Dinners for 5 Children (Because I Don’t Run a Café)

Let’s get real — I don’t run a fancy Café or a five-star restaurant where everyone gets their own special menu. No, in my house, it’s everyone eats the same thing at the same time — and if you’re lucky, it’s edible! Jokes aside, feeding five kids (plus the big kid — me) on a budget and in record time is like a sport. You have to be quick, clever, and willing to embrace the chaos.

Here’s the honest truth: I’ve perfected the art of the quick, budget-friendly, all-in-one family dinner. Because if I had to cook five different meals every night, I’d be living at the takeaway drive-thru — and honestly, who has time or money for that?

So, here are some of my go-to, no-fuss dinners that keep everyone happy, full, and not broke:

1. Spaghetti Bolognese (The Classic Save the Day)

One pot, a handful of ingredients, and boom — dinner is served. I chuck in lots of mince, a jar of bargain pasta sauce, and some spaghetti. Bonus points if I hide extra veggies in there and they’re none the wiser. It’s quick, filling, and easy to serve in under 20 minutes. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser — even my moody teen hoovers it up.

2. Jacket Potatoes with Toppings

Bake a batch of potatoes (we’re talking in the oven or microwave for speed). Then everyone can choose their own toppings — cheese, baked beans, tuna, coleslaw, or whatever’s in the fridge. It’s like a build-your-own-burger but way cheaper and healthier (mostly). Plus, it makes the kids feel like they’re in a fancy restaurant…’sort of.’

3. Stir-Fry

Chop up some frozen veg, add a splash of soy sauce, and fry it all up with some chicken or whatever meat you’ve got. Serve with rice or noodles. This dish is fast, flexible, and you can make it from leftovers or budget buys. My kids think it’s a mini adventure every time I whip it up.

4. Frittata or Omelettes

Eggs are the superheroes of budget dinners. Whisk some eggs, toss in any bits of cheese, cooked veg, or leftover meat, and you’ve got a filling meal in minutes. My kids love helping in the kitchen for this one because they get to choose their own fillings. Bonus points: it’s practically fool proof.

5. Tuna Pasta Bake

Pre-cooked pasta + a tin of tuna + a creamy sauce + some grated cheese on top, baked for 15 minutes. It’s like comfort food on steroids and super quick to make with store cupboard staples. My kids ask for it on busy weeknights — I call that a win.

And Remember

While I may not run a fancy restaurant, I’ve learned that feeding a big family doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Keep it simple, keep it quick, and don’t be afraid to embrace the chaos. As long as everyone’s fed and no one’s crying, I call that a dinner success!

So, dear readers, next time you’re thinking, “What’s for dinner?” remember: you’re not alone, and with a bit of planning, you can survive another night of fam-friendly food. Happy eating!