Busy days call for meals that are quick, simple, and leave you with minimal cleanup. That’s where these 10 easy one-pot meals come in — each one is ready in 30 minutes or less, making them perfect for weeknights, last-minute dinners, or when you just don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of one-pot cooking is that everything — from the protein to the veggies to the grains — cooks together, allowing flavors to blend beautifully while saving you time on washing dishes. These recipes are also incredibly versatile, so you can easily swap ingredients to match what you have on hand.
Start with a creamy chicken and mushroom skillet, where tender chicken cooks in a rich, yet light, sauce alongside mushrooms and spinach. Or try a spicy shrimp and rice dish, bursting with garlic, paprika, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
If you love pasta, a one-pot tomato basil pasta with parmesan is a must-try — the pasta cooks right in the flavorful sauce, soaking up every bit of goodness. For a heartier option, go for a beef and vegetable stir-fry over noodles, ready in minutes and packed with protein and vitamins.
Vegetarians will adore a one-pot chickpea curry with coconut milk and fragrant spices, paired with rice or quinoa for a complete, filling meal. Or whip up a Mediterranean quinoa skillet with olives, tomatoes, spinach, and feta for a fresh, wholesome dinner.
Another crowd-pleaser is the Tex-Mex black bean and corn chili, loaded with bold flavors and perfect for serving with tortilla chips or warm bread. If you’re craving comfort food, a creamy tuna noodle skillet is nostalgic, budget-friendly, and oh-so-satisfying.
For a lighter but flavorful choice, a garlic butter salmon and asparagus skillet delivers healthy fats, vibrant greens, and a punch of flavor in record time. And finally, a teriyaki chicken and vegetable stir-fry offers a sweet-savory balance the whole family will love.
With these 10 one-pot meals, you can get dinner on the table fast without sacrificing taste or nutrition. They’re proof that quick cooking can still be delicious, satisfying, and exciting — and best of all, there’s only one pot to wash when you’re done!
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Greek Chicken with Olives
This skillet meal brings together chicken thighs, olives, and a lemon-flavored broth. It’s all cooked in one pan and finished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for even more flavor.
Creamy Gnocchi and Sausage
Packaged potato gnocchi, Italian sausage, and sun-dried tomatoes simmer in a delicious creamy sauce for a meal the entire family will request often. It’s full of Tuscan flavors in every bite.
Parmesan Lemon Chicken
This one-pan chicken dish features a rich parmesan lemon sauce that’s absolutely irresistible. Serve it with rice or pasta and a side salad for a complete meal.
One-Pot French Onion Pasta
Inspired by French onion soup, this pasta dish combines caramelized onions with ground beef and mushrooms. It’s comforting, savory, and ready in just 30 minutes.
Thai Red Curry Chicken
Coconut cream, red curry paste, and vegetables simmer together with tender chicken in this easy dinner you can prep in just 10 minutes. It all comes together in one skillet with plenty of flavor.
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
This soup is light but satisfying, made with chicken breast, orzo, carrots, and fresh lemon juice. A bit of Greek yogurt adds creaminess without weighing it down.
Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet
This cheap and filling skillet recipe is made with smoked sausage, bell peppers, and crispy potatoes. It’s a classic combo with minimal prep.
Parmesan White Beans
Canned white beans, fresh garlic, onion, and Parmesan come together to make this meatless meal that’ll have everyone raving. The lemon zest adds a nice bright flavor to the dish.
Chicken Stir-Fry
This stir-fry is loaded with colorful veggies and tender chicken tossed in a homemade peanut sauce. It’s fresh, fast, and comes together in just one pan.
Chili Mac and Cheese
Macaroni, ground beef, and kidney beans cook with spices and cheddar cheese for a mashup of chili and mac that hits the spot. The pasta cooks right in the sauce.
