Gift these dishes to a new parent, neighbor or family member in need, and you'll gain superhero status for sure. These easy recipes require just 15 minutes of hands-on time, so you can be at their doorstep in a flash.
44 Make-and-Take Meals for New Parents (Or Anyone) in Need
Updated on Sep. 19, 2024
1/44
Asparagus Ham Dinner
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I've been making this low-fat ham dinner for my family for years, and we always look forward to it. With asparagus, tomato, pasta and chunks of ham, it's a tempting blend of tastes and textures. —Rhonda Zavodny, David City, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 204 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 561mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 12g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
2/44
Banana Bread
Total Time
1 hour 30 min
Servings
1 loaf (16 pieces)
From the Recipe Creator:
Whenever I pass a display of bananas in the grocery store, I can almost smell the wonderful aroma of this banana bread. It really is amazingly good! —Gert Kaiser, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 257 calories, 13g fat (1g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 171mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
3/44
Farmer’s Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Between family and friends, we average 375 visitors a year! This casserole is handy—you can put it together the night before, let the flavors blend, then bake it in the morning. —Nancy Schmidt, Center, Colorado
Editor’s tip: Consider setting up a meal train to help support the grieving family. You could bring this recipe or one of these other meal train ideas.
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 239 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 170mg cholesterol, 532mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 18g protein.
4/44
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Total Time
4 hours 10 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The slow cooker not only makes this an easy meal, it keeps the pork tender, saucy and loaded with flavor. —Beki Kosydar-Krantz, Mayfield, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 402 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1181mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 2g fiber), 29g protein.
5/44
Buttermilk Pancakes
Total Time
40 min
Servings
2-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
You just can't beat a basic buttermilk pancake for a down-home country breakfast. Paired with sausage and fresh fruit, these pancakes are just like the ones you get at Cracker Barrel. —Betty Abrey, Imperial, Saskatchewan
Nutrition Facts:
3 pancakes: 270 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 913mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.
6/44
Honey Chicken Stir-Fry
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm a new mom, and my schedule is very dependent upon our young son, so I like meals that can be ready in as little time as possible. This all-in-one chicken stir fry recipe with a hint of sweetness from honey is a big time-saver. —Caroline Sperry, Allentown, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup stir-fry: 249 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 455mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
7/44
Fruit Cup with Citrus Sauce
Total Time
10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This medley of fresh fruits is so elegant that I serve it in my prettiest crystal bowls. With its dressed-up flavor, it's perfect for a special event. —Edna Lee, Greeley, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 75 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 8mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit.
8/44
Rice Pudding
Total Time
55 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My sisters and I always loved the recipe for rice pudding our grandma made. After she passed away, I took it upon myself to try and find the secret to her rice pudding. It took quite a bit of experimentation, but I finally got it right! And I'm glad to share this easy recipe here. —Margaret DeChant, Newberry, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 197 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 52mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
9/44
Cheeseburger Pasta
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this cheeseburger pasta recipe to satisfy a craving. What a delicious, healthy classic! —Raquel Haggard, Edmond, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 391 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 759mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
10/44
11/44
Mini Barbecue Meat Loaves
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Kids can have fun helping to prepare these mini meat loaves in muffin cups. For extra spice, we sometimes add 2 teaspoons chili powder and 1 cup of salsa. —Linda Call, Falun, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
2 mini meat loaves: 330 calories, 17g fat (7g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 668mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein.
12/44
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings (2-1/2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
This chicken tortilla soup is as good as (if not better than) any I've had in a restaurant. I get so many compliments when I serve it: you will, too. —Laura Black Johnson, Largo, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 200 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 941mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.
13/44
Blueberry French Toast
Total Time
1 hour 25 min
Servings
8 servings (1-3/4 cups sauce)
From the Recipe Creator:
A local blueberry grower shared this recipe with me, and it's the best breakfast dish I've ever tasted. With the cream cheese and berry combination, this French toast casserole reminds me of dessert. —Patricia Axelsen, Aurora, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 621 calories, 31g fat (15g saturated fat), 350mg cholesterol, 569mg sodium, 68g carbohydrate (44g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.
14/44
Cheese Tortellini with Tomatoes and Corn
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh corn and basil make this dish taste like summer. I think it's a good one for bringing to picnics or gatherings, but it's great along with any side dish for a weeknight dinner! —Sally Maloney, Dallas, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1-3/4 cups: 366 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 286mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 14g protein.
15/44
Chili Mac Casserole
Total Time
45 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This cheesy casserole uses several of my family's favorite ingredients, including macaroni, kidney beans, tomatoes and cheese. Just add a leafy salad for a complete meal. —Marlene Wilson, Rolla, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 313 calories, 13g fat (6g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 758mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
16/44
Scalloped Corn
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This comforting casserole features sunny corn kernels tucked into a creamy custard. My mom got this recipe and many other excellent ones from her mother. By the time this crowd-pleasing corn dish left the table, my father, sister, brothers and I would have almost scraped it clean. —Sandy Jenkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 236 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 112mg cholesterol, 296mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 2g fiber), 9g protein.
17/44
Blueberry-Rhubarb Crumble
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A dollop of whipped topping adds a nice finishing touch to this satisfying crumble. Sometimes I drizzle a little flavored coffee creamer on top instead of the whipped topping. —Nancy Sousley, Lafayette, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 305 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 64mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (42g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
18/44
Quick Cherry Turnovers
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Refrigerated crescent rolls let you make these fruit-filled pastries in a hurry. My family loves these turnovers for breakfast, but they’re so delicious, they’d be welcome any time of the day. Feel free to experiment with other pie fillings as well. —Elleen Oberrueter, Danbury, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 turnover: 359 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 459mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (34g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
19/44
Asparagus Beef Lo Mein
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This springtime beef lo mein recipe is as easy as it gets. Ramen noodles make it extra fun. —Dottie Wanat, Modesto, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 511 calories, 21g fat (7g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 1367mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein.
20/44
Creamy Caramel Dip
Total Time
10 min
Servings
3-1/2 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
Because I feed three hungry people in my family (my husband, a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and our two boys), I love satisfying snacks that are easy to make. We all appreciate this cool, light fruit dip. —Karen Laubman, Spruce Grove, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 87 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 83mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
21/44
Cherry Tomato Salad
Total Time
15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe evolved from a need to use the bumper crops of delicious cherry tomatoes we grow. It's one of my favorite cherry tomato recipes, especially at cookouts. —Sally Sibley, St. Augustine, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 103 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 203mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
22/44
Roasted Cumin Cashews
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
3-1/2 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
Kick up parties and get-togethers with this well-seasoned snack. The cashews are sweet, salty, crunchy...and oh, so munchable. —Martha Fehl, Brookville, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 145 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 477mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
23/44
Indian Spiced Chickpea Wraps
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Raita, an Indian condiment made with yogurt, elevates this vegetarian dish to a satisfying gourmet wrap. If you're in the mood to experiment, try diced mango or cucumber for the pineapple and add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. —Jennifer Beckman, Falls Church, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 wrap: 321 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 734mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 10g fiber), 13g protein.
24/44
Quick Barbecued Beans
Total Time
25 min
Servings
5 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Barbecued beans are a simple, classic recipe and cooking them on the grill adds great smoky flavor. —Millie Vickery, Lena, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 264 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 877mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 13g fiber), 14g protein.
25/44
Roasted Vegetable Dip
Total Time
40 min
Servings
20 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
While my children were always very willing eaters, I came up with this recipe to get them to eat more veggies and enjoy it. The dip doesn't last long in our house. —Sarah Vasques, Milford, New Hampshire
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons dip: 44 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 110mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
26/44
Quinoa Salad
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
Toasting the grain before it simmers isn't essential, but it does add a pleasant nuttiness to the flavor of this vegan quinoa salad. Mix and match whatever fresh herbs and veggies you have on hand. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 227 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 449mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch.
27/44
Spiced Apricot Baked Oatmeal
Total Time
40 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Eat these spiced oatmeal squares while they're still warm for a cozy morning treat. I freeze mine in single servings so I can grab, go and microwave when I get to work. I'm not too humble to say I have the best breakfast in the office. —Ellie Martin Cliffe, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece with 1/4 cup yogurt and 2 teaspoons preserves: 327 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 280mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (33g sugars, 3g fiber), 9g protein.
28/44
Quick Tacos al Pastor
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We loved the pork and pineapple tacos from a food truck in Hawaii. My husband, a high school football referee, gives my version a thumbs-up. —Lori McLain, Denton, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 317 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 573mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 5g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 fat.
29/44
Creamy Skillet Noodles with Peas
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I’ve made this creamy noodle side for years. Since kids and adults go for it, I keep the ingredients on hand at all times. —Anita Groff, Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 329 calories, 31g fat (8g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 757mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 9g protein.
30/44
Delectable Granola
Total Time
45 min
Servings
11 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a great make-ahead recipe! Be sure to remove from the cookie sheets within 20 minutes after baking so the granola doesn't stick. —Lori Stevens, Riverton, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup (calculated without yogurt): 288 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 170mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 4g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 2 fat.
31/44
Curried Egg Salad
Total Time
15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A curry kick gives this egg salad big appeal. We love it when the weather gets warm. —Joyce McDowell, West Union, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 open-faced sandwich: 273 calories, 20g fat (4g saturated fat), 188mg cholesterol, 284mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
32/44
Turkey White Chili
Total Time
1 hour 25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Growing up in a Pennsylvania Dutch area, I was surrounded by excellent cooks and wonderful foods. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes like this change-of-pace chili. —Kaye Whiteman, Charleston, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 288 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 635mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
33/44
Shrimp Pad Thai
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
You can make this yummy Thai classic in no time. Find fish sauce and chili garlic sauce in the Asian foods aisle of your grocery store. —Elise Ray, Shawnee, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 338 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 115mg cholesterol, 1675mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 3g fiber), 17g protein.
34/44
Drop Biscuits
Total Time
30 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
When I was young, my mom would make these biscuits with fresh cream she got from a local farmer. I don't go to those lengths, but the family recipe is still a real treat. —Beverly Sprague, Baltimore, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 biscuit: 256 calories, 15g fat (9g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 346mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
35/44
Corn Chowder
Total Time
35 min
Servings
8 servings (about 2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
Chowder is a classic comfort food here in the Northeast, especially during cooler weather. Whenever I make a trip home to Pittsburgh, Mom has this simmering on the stove for me.
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 271 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 889mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein.
36/44
Havarti Turkey Hero
Total Time
15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is not your ordinary sandwich! Everyone loves the combination of chutney and chopped peanuts. I like to make this when I have company in the afternoon or at night after a game of cards. —Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 302 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 973mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
37/44
Italian White Bean Soup
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A bowlful of this soup is so satisfying, it's hard to believe it's actually good for you, too. I crave it all the time. With lots of beans and potatoes, it's filling and even hits the spot with meat lovers. —Kristina Krummel, Elkins, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 164 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 714mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 8g protein.
38/44
Buffalo Sloppy Joes
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Lean ground turkey makes this a lighter sloppy joe than the standard ground beef version. A hefty splash of hot sauce and optional blue cheese provide an authentic Buffalo-style flavor. —Maria Regakis, Saugus, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 279 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 475mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 33g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 starch.
39/44
Roasted Herb & Lemon Cauliflower
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A standout cauliflower side is easy to prepare with just a few ingredients. Crushed red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 161 calories, 14g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 342mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1 vegetable.
40/44
New Mexico Green Chile Breakfast Burritos
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Back when I lived in the Southwest, we wrapped everything up in a tortilla. Breakfast burritos in every possible combination are very popular in New Mexico. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito with 1 tablespoon salsa: 290 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 232mg cholesterol, 586mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1-1/2 starch.
41/44
Nuts and Seeds Trail Mix
Total Time
5 min
Servings
5 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
A filling blend of nuts, seeds, chocolate chips and dried fruit keeps you healthy by the handful. —Kristin Rimkus, Snohomish, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1/3 cup: 336 calories, 25g fat (6g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 96mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 4g fiber), 11g protein.
42/44
Broccoli Slaw
Total Time
15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's my favorite twist on broccoli salad. It's so easy to make and has an irresistible tangy crunch. —Konny Thomas, Citrus Heights, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 225 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 325mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
43/44
Peanut Butter Dip
Total Time
10 min
Servings
2-1/2 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom got this peanut butter dip recipe from a neighbor years ago. She always made it for us kids in the fall when apples were in season. Now I make it for my children. —Juli Meyers, Hinesville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons (calculated without apples): 126 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 115mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
44/44
Chewy Chocolate-Cherry Bars
Total Time
35 min
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Colorful dried cherries and pistachios star in this take on seven-layer bars. To switch it up even more, try cinnamon or chocolate graham cracker crumbs instead of plain, and substitute pecans or walnuts for the pistachios. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 bar: 164 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 77mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
