Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen on a weekday evening, only to be left with a sink full of dishes and a family that’s hungry? We feel your pain! That’s why we’re excited to share our collection of 20 easy one pot recipes perfect for busy weeknights. These mouth-watering meals are not only quick and convenient but also packed with flavor and nutrients.
From classic comfort foods like macaroni and cheese, to international inspirations like Moroccan chickpea stew, these recipes cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. And the best part? Each dish is made in just one pot, minimizing cleanup and making it easy to get everyone fed and happy.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and a velvety cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with garlic. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy garlic sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One Pot Chicken and Rice
One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines chicken, rice, and vegetables in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rice, frozen vegetables, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
In just a few minutes, you can create a tasty and nutritious meal with this easy-to-make beef and broccoli stir fry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Salmon with Vegetables
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing recipe that combines the flavors of lemon and herbs with the richness of salmon and a variety of colorful vegetables. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and sprinkle with rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the salmon.
6. Arrange bell peppers and zucchini slices around the salmon.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Coconut Curry
This rich and creamy curry is a flavorful blend of exotic spices, tender vegetables, and the smoothness of coconut milk. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can of coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. Add diced potatoes and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
One Pot Spaghetti Bolognese
This hearty one-pot recipe is a twist on the classic spaghetti bolognese, where ground beef, tomato sauce, and pasta come together in a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup spaghetti
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the spaghetti, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cheesy Taco Pasta
This recipe combines the comfort of pasta with the bold flavors of tacos, perfect for a twist on a classic dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1/2 cup taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, and crushed tortilla chips for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until flavors meld together.
4. Combine cooked pasta, cheese, and beef mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss until cheese is melted and well combined.
5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and serve hot. Optional toppings include sour cream, salsa, and crushed tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, combining the flavors of cumin, coriander, and paprika with the comfort of chickpeas. Aromatic spices and tender vegetables make for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, coriander, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
One Pot Jambalaya
Jambalaya, a classic Louisiana dish, is a flavorful one-pot meal that combines the rich tastes of sausage, chicken, and shrimp with rice. This recipe simplifies the cooking process by using a single pot to cook all the ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large, heavy pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the onion, celery, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tomato Basil Lentil Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the earthiness of lentils, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic basil broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One Pot Mac and Cheese
This classic comfort food gets a speedy makeover with this one-pot recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a velvety-smooth macaroni and cheese in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Noodles
This recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the springy texture of noodles, all wrapped up in a flavorful package. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, water, garlic, ginger, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. Add the blended mixture to cooked noodles and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped peanuts or scallions if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A classic Russian dish that combines tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce, served over egg noodles. This recipe is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes; remove from skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in beef broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
6. Return beef to skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve beef and mushroom mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
A bright and zesty one-pot pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp, garlic, lemon, and herbs for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic; cook 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp; cook 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Pour in lemon juice, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the pot; toss to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice
A flavorful and nutritious Chinese-inspired dish, Vegetable Fried Rice is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and rice. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with vitamins and minerals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs; scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Add soy sauce to taste; season with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Transfer to a serving platter; garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One Pot Chicken Alfredo
This classic comfort food dish is a twist on traditional chicken alfredo, cooked all in one pot and ready to serve in under 30 minutes. With fettuccine noodles, juicy chicken, and a creamy sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add cooked pasta, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir until well combined and add reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Potato Hash
Spicy Sausage and Potato Hash Recipe
A hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch, this Spicy Sausage and Potato Hash combines the savory goodness of sausage with the comforting warmth of potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as chorizo or Italian sausage), sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 1/4 cup olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, browning both sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
6. Combine cooked potatoes and sausage mixture in a large bowl and stir well.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
One Pot Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, celery, and kidney beans)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 small can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa
A flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the richness of garlic butter with the wholesome goodness of quinoa, all wrapped up in a delicious chicken package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
7. Serve the chicken on top of the quinoa and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One Pot Mexican Quinoa
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the creaminess of quinoa with the bold spices of Mexico. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add quinoa, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a stress-free dinner routine with these 20 easy one pot recipes! From creamy pasta dishes to flavorful stir-fries and soups, there’s something for everyone. Try Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Rice, or Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. Or, go global with Moroccan Chickpea Stew, Thai Peanut Noodles, or Vegetable Coconut Curry. With these simple recipes, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights when cooking is the last thing on your mind.
