Introducing solids is one of the most exciting milestones in your baby’s first year. Not only does it signal the beginning of a lifetime of food exploration, but it’s also an opportunity to introduce wholesome, homemade meals packed with nutrients. While store-bought options can be convenient, making baby food at home is simple, budget-friendly, and allows you to control exactly what your little one is eating.
If you’re wondering where to start, we’ve got you covered with 10 easy and nutritious baby food recipes—each one crafted with your baby’s health (and your schedule!) in mind.
Before You Begin: Baby Feeding Basics
Most pediatricians recommend introducing solids around 6 months, once your baby shows signs of readiness—sitting up independently, showing interest in food, and losing the tongue-thrust reflex.
Start with single-ingredient purees, then gradually move toward blended and mashed combinations with more texture. Always remember to consult your pediatrician before introducing any potential allergens or new foods.
1. Creamy Sweet Potato Purée
Age: 6+ months
Why it’s great: Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin C.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and chopped
- Water or breast milk/formula for thinning
Instructions:
- Steam or boil the sweet potato until soft (about 10–15 minutes).
- Blend with a bit of water or breast milk until smooth and creamy.
- Serve warm or freeze in small portions.
2. Apple & Pear Cinnamon Mash
Age: 6+ months
Why it’s great: Apples and pears are gentle on tiny tummies and cinnamon adds a subtle flavour.
Ingredients:
- 1 apple, peeled and chopped
- 1 pear, peeled and chopped
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Steam fruit until soft (about 8–10 minutes).
- Blend or mash with a fork depending on your baby’s stage.
- Add cinnamon and stir.
3. Banana & Avocado Blend
Age: 6+ months
Why it’s great: Avocados provide healthy fats, while bananas add potassium and natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
- ½ ripe banana
- ½ ripe avocado
Instructions:
- Mash both together with a fork until smooth.
- Serve immediately (avocados brown quickly!)
4. Carrot & Lentil Purée
Age: 7+ months
Why it’s great: This protein-packed combo supports growth and iron levels.
Ingredients:
- 1 small carrot, peeled and chopped
- ¼ cup red lentils
- ¾ cup water
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients in a saucepan and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Blend until smooth. Add water if needed to adjust texture.
5. Baby’s First Oatmeal
Age: 6+ months
Why it’s great: Oats are a great source of fiber and iron, especially when fortified.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup quick oats
- ¾ cup water or breast milk
- Optional: mashed fruit (banana, applesauce)
Instructions:
- Cook oats in liquid over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Blend for a smoother texture or leave as is for older babies.
6. Butternut Squash & Apple Purée
Age: 6+ months
Why it’s great: Butternut squash is full of vitamins A and E, and apples add a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and diced
- ½ apple, peeled and chopped
Instructions:
- Steam both ingredients until soft (15–20 minutes).
- Blend together until smooth.
7. Spinach, Potato & Pea Mash
Age: 7+ months
Why it’s great: A green powerhouse filled with iron, fiber, and folate.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup spinach leaves
- ½ cup peas
- ½ small potato, peeled and diced
Instructions:
- Boil potato for 10 minutes, then add peas and spinach for the last 3 minutes.
- Drain and mash or blend to desired consistency.
8. Chicken & Veggie Purée
Age: 7–8+ months
Why it’s great: Introduces your baby to protein and a variety of vegetables.
Ingredients:
- ½ chicken breast, diced
- ¼ cup carrots, chopped
- ¼ cup sweet potato, chopped
Instructions:
- Simmer chicken and vegetables in water until fully cooked (15–20 minutes).
- Blend until smooth, using cooking water for consistency.
9. Mango & Greek Yogurt Smoothie
Age: 8+ months
Why it’s great: Creamy and naturally sweet, it’s great for older babies exploring new textures.
Ingredients:
- ½ ripe mango
- ¼ cup full-fat Greek yogurt
Instructions:
- Blend until smooth.
- Serve chilled as a snack or breakfast option.
10. Blueberry & Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
Age: 9+ months
Why it’s great: Quinoa is a complete protein and blueberries are loaded with antioxidants.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup cooked quinoa
- · ¼ cup blueberries
- Splash of water or milk
Instructions:
- Simmer blueberries until soft and mashable.
- Mix into cooked quinoa and mash or blend as needed.
Storage Tips for Homemade Baby Food
- Freeze in small portions: Use ice cube trays or baby food storage containers for easy meals.
- Label and date: Homemade purees can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Reheat gently: Always test temperature before serving and avoid using the microwave to heat directly in plastic containers.
Allergies & Introducing New Foods
Introduce new foods one at a time, waiting at least 3 days before adding another. This way, you can easily spot allergic reactions like rashes, vomiting, or diarrhea. Common allergenic foods (eggs, dairy, peanuts) can be introduced around 6 months if your pediatrician agrees, especially if there's no family history of food allergies.
Feeding your baby doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple ingredients and a little prep, you can offer your little one healthy, homemade meals that support their development and expand their palate. Plus, making baby food at home gives you full control over what your child eats—no preservatives, fillers, or hidden ingredients.
Remember, feeding is about more than nutrition—it’s about bonding, exploration, and fun. Follow your baby’s cues, trust your instincts, and don’t stress the mess. You’ve got this!