25 Easy Mother’s Day Dishes That’ll Have You Winning Favorite Child Status

If you're aiming to win favorite child status this Mother's Day, these dishes will do the talking for you. Each one is easy to pull off and guaranteed to bring back memories of family dinners and hugs that smelled like dinner rolls. From comfort classics to fresh-feeling plates, this list makes showing up for Mom feel effortless. These 25 recipes are proof that love—and favorite status—can be baked, air-fried, or slow-cooked.

A plate of apple pie with a slice taken out of it. — Gluten-Free Apple Cake. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Cheesy Easy Cauliflower Casserole

A baked dish with a large serving of cheesy cauliflower in a glass baking dish is next to a white plate holding a portion of the same dish. The background is a light wooden surface. A fork is visible beside the plate. — Cheesy Easy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This cheesy cauliflower casserole is a comforting, no-fuss side that’s just right for Mother’s Day. With its creamy texture and crispy topping, it’s a simple way to show your mom you care while still being the favorite child. It’s quick to prepare, making it the perfect choice when you want to impress without a lot of work. This dish is bound to have everyone reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Easy Cauliflower Casserole

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

A plate of glazed barbecue chicken drumsticks garnished with small parsley leaves. The chicken is coated in a shiny, dark sauce, suggesting a rich, flavorful marinade. The dish is arranged to highlight the crispy, caramelized skin. — Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks bring all the smoky, juicy flavor of a grill with none of the fuss. A fast and easy option for Mother's Day, these drumsticks are perfectly cooked and coated in a rich BBQ sauce. With the air fryer making quick work of dinner, you can spend more time making memories. Serve them up, and you’ll be in the running for favorite child status.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Air Fryer Turkey Thighs

Two roasted chicken thighs on a white plate garnished with sprigs of thyme. A ceramic jar is partially visible in the background on the left. — Air Fryer Turkey Thighs. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

These air fryer turkey thighs are juicy, crispy, and incredibly easy to make, making them the perfect dish for a stress-free Mother’s Day meal. The air fryer ensures a golden crust and tender meat, so you can enjoy all the flavors of a roast without the wait. Simple enough for anyone to prepare, yet impressive enough to earn you favorite child status. This dish will have your mom asking for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Thighs

Crispy Easy Air Fryer Chicken Wings With Italian Seasoning

Close-up of a plate of seasoned and grilled chicken wings garnished with herbs. Lemon wedges are visible in the background, adding a hint of color. The wings appear crispy and well-cooked, resting on a dark plate. — Crispy Easy Air Fryer Chicken Wings With Italian Seasoning. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Crispy, tender, and bursting with flavor, these air fryer chicken wings are a fun and delicious way to win over everyone on Mother’s Day. The Italian seasoning adds a burst of flavor that’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. They’re easy to make and perfect for serving as a crowd-pleaser, making you the favorite child with minimal effort. Serve them up, and watch as your family digs in for more.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Easy Air Fryer Chicken Wings With Italian Seasoning

Green Shakshuka

A skillet with eggs, spinach and pomegranate. — Green Shakshuka. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This Green Shakshuka is a fresh and vibrant choice for Mother's Day, bringing a healthy, easy-to-make dish to the table. Packed with greens and a rich tomato base, it feels like a springtime celebration in a skillet. The ease of preparation ensures you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the moment. Serve this to earn major favorite child status, making your mom's day even brighter.
Get the Recipe: Green Shakshuka

Easy Moussaka Recipe

Close-up of a baked casserole dish featuring layers of cheese with crispy golden edges, topped with fresh green herbs. — Easy Moussaka Recipe. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Layers of eggplant, spiced meat sauce, and creamy béchamel make this moussaka a hearty and flavorful option for Mother’s Day. It’s easy to prepare and packs big flavor, making it a great way to treat your mom to something special. The rich flavors come together beautifully, and it’s a dish everyone will love. Your mom will appreciate the thought and effort you put into this comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Moussaka Recipe

Baked Brie with Honey and Nuts Recipe for Warm Cheesy Goodness

A wooden bowl filled with melted cheese, chopped peaches, and pecans. A bread slice is seen in the background, and a piece of bread is used to scoop up the cheesy mixture. Pecans are scattered around the bowl. — Baked Brie with Honey and Nuts Recipe for Warm Cheesy Goodness. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This baked brie with honey and nuts is a warm, gooey appetizer that will make Mother’s Day feel extra special. The creamy brie melts perfectly, and the honey and nuts add a touch of elegance and sweetness. It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy time with your mom rather than spending it in the kitchen. With minimal effort, you’ll make a big impact as the favorite child.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie with Honey and Nuts Recipe for Warm Cheesy Goodness

Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara

A bowl of penne pasta topped with shredded meat and garnished with fresh basil leaves. A fork is placed in the bowl. Red tomatoes and additional fresh basil leaves are on the marble surface nearby. — Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This slow cooker chicken marinara is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a Mother’s Day meal with minimal effort. Tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce, it’s simple yet satisfying and will make you the favorite child without spending the whole day in the kitchen. Just set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other things while it cooks. Your mom will appreciate the ease and deliciousness of this comforting dish.
Get the Recipe: Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara

Tomato And Avocado Eggs Benedict

Meatless and Vegetarian Eggs Benedict Recipe with Avocado (Gluten free option!). — Tomato And Avocado Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This modern take on eggs benedict adds a fresh twist with creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes, making it an ideal choice for Mother’s Day brunch. The silky eggs and savory sauce combine beautifully with the fresh flavors of the toppings, making it a standout dish. It’s a simple yet sophisticated way to show your love and earn that favorite child title. Your mom will love the freshness and the thought you put into this dish.
Get the Recipe: Tomato And Avocado Eggs Benedict

Chicken and Date Casserole

This chicken and date casserole combines savory and sweet in a dish that’s perfect for Mother’s Day. The dates add a touch of natural sweetness to the savory chicken, making every bite a delightful combination. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s both comforting and flavorful, perfect for showing your mom just how much you care. She’ll love it—and you’ll be the favorite child for making such a memorable meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Date Casserole

Air Fryer Cheese Bites Recipe

A plate of breaded chicken nuggets garnished with parsley. The nuggets are golden brown, and the dish is placed on a white surface with a striped cloth partially visible. — Air Fryer Cheese Bites Recipe. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

These crispy cheese bites are a fun and flavorful snack that will have everyone at the table talking on Mother’s Day. Quick and easy, they’re the perfect way to impress your mom with minimal effort, giving you that coveted favorite child status. With gooey cheese and a crunchy outside, they’re perfect for nibbling before dinner or as a side. Serve them up and watch everyone’s faces light up.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Bites Recipe

Creamy Vegan Broccoli Casserole Recipe

A black plate with a serving of broccoli casserole, topped with breadcrumbs. A fork rests on the plate. The background is a marble surface, with some green plant decorations partially visible. — Creamy Vegan Broccoli Casserole Recipe. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This creamy vegan broccoli casserole is a wholesome dish that’s full of flavor, making it perfect for a Mother’s Day meal that’s both healthy and indulgent. It’s simple to prepare but delivers all the creamy comfort your mom loves. The crispy topping and smooth texture will have your family fighting for the last bite. It’s a dish that proves you don’t need to overcomplicate things to be the favorite child.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Want to save this?

Just enter your email and get it sent to your inbox! Plus you'll get new recipes from us every week.

Chicken Hash Brown Casserole

A dish in a black baking pan filled with baked casserole. The top is golden brown with crispy edges and garnished with sliced green onions. A portion has been removed, revealing a creamy interior. — Chicken Hash Brown Casserole. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This casserole combines the comfort of crispy hash browns with savory chicken, creating the perfect dish for Mother's Day. It's simple to make yet feels special enough to treat mom with on her big day. A casserole that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a great way to make your mom feel like the queen she is. Your favorite child status is practically guaranteed with this crowd-pleasing favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hash Brown Casserole

Eggplant Shakshuka

Bright, colorful, and fresh, this eggplant shakshuka is a unique and flavorful option for a Mother’s Day brunch. The perfectly poached eggs and savory tomato sauce will have everyone at the table feeling special, making you the favorite child with this easy-to-make dish. It’s a great way to celebrate without spending hours in the kitchen. A dish that’s as impressive as it is satisfying, this will surely leave your mom smiling.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Shakshuka

Roast Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

A plate of roasted asparagus topped with almond slices, capers, and parsley. Two lemon wedges are placed on either side of the asparagus. The dish is presented on an oval white plate. — Roast Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This air fryer roasted asparagus is the perfect side dish for Mother’s Day, offering a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. The air fryer cooks the asparagus to a crisp-tender perfection, and the seasoning adds a perfect touch of flavor. Quick to prepare, it allows you more time to enjoy the day with your mom. It’s a side dish that will easily make you the favorite child.
Get the Recipe: Roast Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe

Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers

A plate of chicken stir-fry with sliced carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms, garnished with cilantro and almond slices. A fork rests on the plate, and a yellow cloth is visible in the background. — Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

With just a few ingredients, this Instant Pot chicken and peppers recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful Mother’s Day meal. The Instant Pot seals in all the juices, making the chicken tender and the peppers perfectly cooked. It’s a simple dish that’s easy to pull off, but the flavor will make you look like a kitchen pro. Your mom will be impressed with how effortlessly you’ve made a standout dish.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers

One-Pot Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes Casserole

A platter of roasted chicken garnished with fresh parsley, accompanied by sautéed mushrooms and potato slices, with a spoon next to the dish. A bowl of creamy white sauce is visible in the background. — One-Pot Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes Casserole. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This one-pot buttermilk chicken and potatoes casserole is a comforting, simple meal that’s perfect for Mother’s Day. With tender chicken and creamy potatoes, it’s a hearty dish that requires very little prep time. You can sit back and enjoy the day, knowing this meal will impress everyone at the table. The ease and delicious flavors will make you the favorite child, hands down.
Get the Recipe: One-Pot Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes Casserole

Cheesy Cabbage Casserole with Cracker Topping (No Canned Soup)

A close-up image of a casserole dish filled with a cheesy cabbage casserole. The top is golden brown and crispy, with a serving spoon lifting a portion, revealing melted cheese and tender cabbage underneath. — Cheesy Cabbage Casserole with Cracker Topping (No Canned Soup). Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole with Cracker Topping is a rich, savory dish that combines the comforting taste of cheese and cabbage with a crispy topping. A great addition to your Mother's Day table, this casserole will please even the pickiest eaters. With no canned soup involved, it’s a homemade dish that shows love and care. Make this for mom, and you're sure to score that coveted favorite child status.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cabbage Casserole with Cracker Topping (No Canned Soup)

Fennel And Mango Slaw

Overhead of fennel mango slaw in bowl. — Fennel And Mango Slaw. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This Fennel and Mango Slaw brings a tangy, crunchy kick to your Mother's Day spread. The combination of fresh fennel and sweet mango makes it a refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course. It’s a simple, easy-to-make dish that adds a vibrant touch to the table. Serve it and watch how it earns you major points for favorite child status.
Get the Recipe: Fennel And Mango Slaw

My Grandmother's Recipe for Carrot Casserole

A delightful slice of carrot cake with a dollop of whipped cream graces a decorative black and white plate. A fork rests invitingly on the cake while a white and blue cup peeks from the background, almost like the perfect ending to a recipe for an unforgettable carrot casserole. — My Grandmother's Recipe for Carrot Casserole. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This carrot casserole is a timeless recipe that’s perfect for Mother’s Day, offering the warmth and love that comes from family tradition. With its creamy texture and savory, buttery finish, it’s sure to make you the favorite child when you serve it up. It’s a hassle-free dish that’s simple to make but packed with flavor, making it a winning choice for any Mother's Day celebration. Serve it and watch the compliments roll in as everyone gathers around the table.
Get the Recipe: My Grandmother's Recipe for Carrot Casserole

Cajun Style Baked Turkey Breast With Vegetables

A plate with pieces of roasted chicken seasoned with herbs and spices, garnished with parsley. A checkered cloth is partially visible beside the plate. — Cajun Style Baked Turkey Breast With Vegetables. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

A Cajun-style turkey breast roasted with vegetables makes for a flavorful, hearty dish that’s perfect for Mother’s Day. The bold spices add an extra layer of excitement, while the vegetables complement the turkey perfectly. It’s simple to make but full of flavor, making you look like a kitchen pro without spending hours cooking. This dish will certainly earn you the coveted favorite child status.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Style Baked Turkey Breast With Vegetables

Heavenly Chocolate Tart With Almonds

Chocolate tart sliced into pieces. — Heavenly Chocolate Tart With Almonds. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

A rich chocolate tart topped with almonds—this dessert is a true showstopper that will make your mom feel extra special. The smooth, indulgent chocolate and crunchy almond topping create the perfect balance, making it a dessert that’ll win you favorite child status in no time. It’s easy to make yet looks stunning, making it the perfect sweet treat for Mother’s Day. Just one bite, and you’ll be the favorite child of the day.
Get the Recipe: Heavenly Chocolate Tart With Almonds

Baked Turkey Tenders

A plate of breaded chicken tenders is arranged around a small bowl of red dipping sauce, garnished with a sprig of parsley, on a paper-lined plate. — Baked Turkey Tenders. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

These Baked Turkey Tenders are a lighter yet satisfying option for Mother's Day, making them perfect for any family gathering. Tender and crispy, they offer a healthier spin on the usual fried options. They’re quick to prepare, leaving you more time to focus on the celebration. This easy dish is bound to boost your chances of achieving favorite child status.
Get the Recipe: Baked Turkey Tenders

Sweet Potato Casserole with Hazelnuts

A slice of crumbly dessert topped with a dollop of white cream is presented on a dark plate. The dessert is garnished with chopped nuts, and a fork rests in front of it, partially obscuring the dessert. — Sweet Potato Casserole with Hazelnuts. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Hazelnuts is the kind of dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its naturally sweet potatoes and crunchy hazelnut topping, it’s a showstopper that’s perfect for Mother’s Day. It’s easy to make, letting you focus on spending quality time with mom instead of slaving in the kitchen. The combination of comfort and elegance will undoubtedly secure your favorite child status.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Hazelnuts

Gluten-Free Apple Cake

This gluten-free apple cake is a light, comforting dessert that’s perfect for Mother’s Day. The sweet apples and tender cake create a beautiful balance of flavor and texture, making it a wonderful finish to any meal. It’s easy to bake and guarantees a big smile from your mom. With a dessert this good, you’ll have favorite child status locked in.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Apple Cake