Easy 15-Minute Toddler Pasta with Meat & Hidden Veggies

 

Cheesy Pasta with Tender Meat & Veggies

Prep time: 10 mins

Cook time: 15 mins

Servings: 2 toddlers

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (50g) small pasta (like ditalini, stars, or macaroni)

• 1/3 cup (70g) ground chicken, turkey, or lean beef

• 1 small carrot (finely grated)

• 1/2 cup mild tomato puree or gentle broth

• 1 tbsp grated mozzarella or mild cheddar cheese

• 1 tsp olive oil or unsalted butter

• A pinch of salt (optional, for taste)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   Boil the pasta in a small pot of water according to package instructions until very soft. Drain well.

2. Cook the Meat:

   Heat the olive oil or butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the ground meat and sauté, stirring frequently and breaking it into very tiny pieces, until fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes).

3. Add Veggies & Sauce:

   Add the finely grated carrot and tomato puree (or broth) to the meat. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until the carrots are tender and the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Combine:

   Add the cooked pasta to the meat sauce. Stir everything together gently.

5. Add Cheese:

   Sprinkle the cheese on top, turn off the heat, and cover the pan for 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts nicely.

6. Serve:

   Let it cool down to a safe temperature before serving to your little one!