When life gets busy, the last thing you want is to deal with a mountain of dishes after dinner. I created this post to help you tackle that problem with ease. If you’re a busy family juggling work, school, and activities, this one’s for you. You deserve dinner options that won’t steal away your precious time and energy.
Here’s the good news: I’ve pulled together 12 one pot dinner recipes that are not only simple and delicious but also make cleanup a breeze. Imagine whipping up a hearty meal like One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta or a wholesome One Pot Chicken and Quinoa in just one pot. These recipes are designed to be family-friendly, satisfying even the pickiest eaters while keeping your evening relaxed.
In this post, you’ll discover quick meals that fit seamlessly into your hectic schedule. Whether you’re craving something comforting like One Pot Beef Stroganoff or something fresh like One Pot Mediterranean Couscous, these recipes have got you covered. You’ll find that cooking can be a joy rather than a chore.
Let’s dive into these easy dinner recipes that promise to simplify your cooking routine. With one pot meals, you can focus more on making memories around the dinner table instead of worrying about the cleanup afterward.
Key Takeaways
– Discover 12 easy one pot dinner recipes that require minimal cleanup and preparation time.
– Enjoy family-friendly meals like One Pot Vegetarian Chili and One Pot Shrimp Fried Rice that cater to various tastes.
– Learn how to make nutritious dishes in one pot, saving you time and effort while keeping your family healthy.
– Explore mouthwatering options featuring ingredients like quinoa, chickpeas, and sweet potatoes for a balanced diet.
– Embrace the simplicity of cooking with fewer dishes, allowing for more quality time with your loved ones.
1. One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta
You need a tasty dinner with quick cleanup. This lemon garlic pasta stays within one pot from start to finish. The bright lemon and bold garlic lift a simple dish into a bright meal for any night. Spinach and cherry tomatoes add color and extra nutrients you’ll feel good about.
Ingredients:
12 oz spaghetti
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
In a large pot, combine the spaghetti, broth, spinach, tomatoes, garlic, lemon juice, and zest.
Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked, about 10-12 minutes.
Stir in olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
Serve warm, topped with extra lemon zest if desired.
FAQs:
Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, adjust cooking time as needed.
One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta
Editor’s Choice
Cooks Standard Stock Pot Dutch Oven Casserole with Glass Lid, 7-Quart Cl…
Amazon$49.99
CAROTE 5QT Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Lid, Heavy-Duty Dutch …
Amazon$39.99
Calphalon® Premier Ceramic Nonstick 7-Qt. Dutch Oven with Lid, Midnight …
Amazon$103.99
Caraway Dutch Oven Pot with Lid (6.5 qt, 10.5″) – Non-Stick Ceramic Coat…
Amazon$139.00
Goodful All-In-One Pot, Multilayer Nonstick, High Performance Cast Dutch…
Amazon$31.992. One Pot Chicken and Quinoa
You’re after a dinner that packs protein and fiber without a messy kitchen. This one pot chicken and quinoa delivers. A cozy blend of spices flavors the chicken while the quinoa soaks up the tasty sauce. Veggies round out the dish for a satisfying, balanced meal.
Ingredients:
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 cup peas
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
In a large pot, sauté the chicken over medium heat until browned.
Add the chopped bell pepper, peas, quinoa, chicken broth, and spices.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until quinoa is fluffy and chicken is cooked through.
Fluff with a fork and serve!
FAQs:
Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa? Yes, just adjust the liquid and cooking time.
One Pot Chicken and Quinoa
Editor’s Choice
Calphalon® Premier Ceramic Nonstick 7-Qt. Dutch Oven with Lid, Midnight …
Amazon$103.99
HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 5-Quart Dutch Oven with Stainless Steel Lid, Sta…
Amazon$199.00
Calphalon Signature Hard-Anodized Nonstick Dutch Oven, 5-Quart, Oven-Saf…
Amazon$154.99
DaTerra Cucina – 8 Qt Nonstick Ceramic Dutch Oven with Lid – Large Oven …
Amazon$149.00
Cook N Home Casserole Dutch Oven Stockpot With Lid Professional Hard Ano…
Amazon$38.993. One Pot Vegetarian Chili
You want a hearty chili that’s friendly to meatless nights. This one pot vegetarian chili fits the bill. Beans, corn, and warm spices create a comforting bite in every bowl. It’s easy, filling, and great for leftovers or a crowd.
Ingredients:
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn
1 can diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
Add the beans, corn, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and season with salt and pepper.
Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
Serve with toppings like avocado or cheese, if desired.
FAQs:
Can I add meat? Yes, ground turkey works well here.
One Pot Vegetarian Chili
Editor’s Choice
Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven – Umite Chef 5QT Pot with Lid & Cotton Pot…
Amazon$37.98
Overmont Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven – 5.5QT Pot with Lid Cookbook & C…
Amazon$44.99
CAROTE 5QT Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Lid, Heavy-Duty Dutch …
Amazon$39.99
Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid – Dual Handles – Ov…
Amazon$88.49
Lodge 7-Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven – Made in USA, Pre-Seasoned, PFAS-Fre…
Amazon$79.904. One Pot Mediterranean Couscous
You’re craving fresh, sunny flavors without a long kitchen process. This Mediterranean couscous brings olives, tomatoes, and feta into a quick one pot meal. It’s bright, satisfying, and easy to scale for a family or guests. It also stores well for lunches later in the week.
Ingredients:
1 cup couscous
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup olives, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
In a pot, combine couscous and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
Once boiling, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes.
Fluff couscous with a fork and stir in tomatoes, olives, feta, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
FAQs:
Can I add chicken? Yes, grilled chicken would be a great addition.
One Pot Mediterranean Couscous
Editor’s Choice
Gotham Steel 5 Quart Stock Pot Multipurpose Pasta Pot with Strainer Lid …
Amazon$24.99
CAROTE 6 Qt Nonstick Stock Pot with Lid Soup Pot, 6 Quart Casserole with…
Amazon$32.99
SENSARTE Nonstick Stock Pot with Lid, 2.6/4.5/6.6/8.5 QT Soup Pot Casser…
Amazon$39.99
CAROTE 5 Qt Nonstick Stock Pot with Lid Soup Pot, Ceramic 5 Quart Casser…
Amazon$29.99
CAROTE Nonstick Stock Pot with Lid Soup Pot, 4 Quart with Lid, Casserole…
Amazon$32.995. One Pot Turkey Taco Rice
Your family loves taco night but not the mess. This one pot turkey taco rice brings bold flavors in a single pot. It’s easy to customize with toppings, and it reheats well for busy days. A wholesome mix of protein, grains, and veg keeps everyone satisfied.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground turkey
1 cup brown rice
2 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn
Toppings: cheese, avocado, cilantro.
Instructions:
Brown the ground turkey in a pot over medium heat.
Stir in the rice, broth, taco seasoning, beans, and corn.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
Fluff rice before serving and top with your favorite taco toppings.
FAQs:
Can I use brown rice? Yes, it takes a bit longer to cook, so adjust the liquid accordingly.
One pot dinner recipes save time and sanity—no mountain of dishes to wash after the kids finish. With one pot turkey taco rice, you get bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and leftovers that still taste amazing. Dinner chaos—consider it tamed.
One Pot Turkey Taco Rice
Editor’s Choice
CAROTE 5QT Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Lid, Heavy-Duty Dutch …
Amazon$39.99
Caraway Dutch Oven Pot with Lid (6.5 qt, 10.5″) – Non-Stick Ceramic Coat…
Amazon$139.00
Calphalon® Premier Ceramic Nonstick 7-Qt. Dutch Oven with Lid, Midnight …
Amazon$103.99
5 QT Dutch Oven with Lid, Nonstick Cookware, Soft Touch Handles, Inducti…
Amazon$41.99
Goodful All-In-One Pot, Multilayer Nonstick, High Performance Cast Dutch…
Amazon$31.996. One Pot Spinach and Cheese Risotto
You want a creamy night without a lot of cleanup. This spinach and cheese risotto fits the bill. Slow stirring creates a smooth texture you will love. Spinach and Parmesan finish the dish with a gentle bite that makes it feel special.
Ingredients:
1 cup arborio rice
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
Sauté onion and garlic in a large pot until translucent.
Stir in arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly toasted.
Gradually add vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring until absorbed before adding more.
Once rice is creamy and al dente, stir in spinach and cheese until melted.
FAQs:
Can I make it vegan? Yes, just omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
One Pot Spinach and Cheese Risotto
Editor’s Choice
Caraway Dutch Oven Pot with Lid (6.5 qt, 10.5″) – Non-Stick Ceramic Coat…
Amazon$139.00
CAROTE 5QT Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Lid, Heavy-Duty Dutch …
Amazon$39.99
Overmont Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven – 5.5QT Pot with Lid Cookbook & C…
Amazon$44.99
Goodful All-In-One Pot, Multilayer Nonstick, High Performance Cast Dutch…
Amazon$31.99
Mueller DuraCast 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Lid, Hea…
Amazon$59.997. One Pot Beef Stroganoff
Comfort food is calling. This one pot beef stroganoff hits the spot with a creamy mushroom sauce poured over pasta. It comes together in one pot for easy cleanup and quick comfort. You can swap in chicken or mushrooms for a lighter version if you like.
Ingredients:
1 lb beef strips
8 oz egg noodles
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cups beef broth
1 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
In a pot, brown the beef and remove it once cooked.
In the same pot, sauté onion and mushrooms until soft.
Add in broth and noodles, bringing to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until noodles are cooked.
Stir in beef and sour cream, heating through.
Tips:
Serve with fresh parsley for a splash of color!
FAQs:
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, any pasta works well.
One Pot Beef Stroganoff
Editor’s Choice
Caraway Dutch Oven Pot with Lid (6.5 qt, 10.5″) – Non-Stick Ceramic Coat…
Amazon$139.00
MARTHA STEWART Gatwick 7-Quart Enamel Cast Iron Dutch Oven – Martha Blue…
Amazon$72.51
Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid – Non-Stick Ovenproof Enamelled Casserole …
Amazon$59.99
Cooks Standard Stock Pot Dutch Oven Casserole with Glass Lid, 7-Quart Cl…
Amazon$49.99
CAROTE 5QT Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Lid, Heavy-Duty Dutch …
Amazon$39.998. One Pot Coconut Curry Chickpeas
You’re craving bold flavors with minimal fuss. This coconut curry chickpeas dish delivers warmth and protein in one pot. The creamy coconut milk gives depth, while curry paste wakes up every bite. Serve over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk
2 tablespoons curry paste
1 cup vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
Salt to taste.
Instructions:
In a pot, sauté onion and bell pepper until soft.
Add chickpeas, coconut milk, broth, and curry paste; stir well.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
Season with salt, and serve over rice or quinoa.
Tips:
Top with cilantro for an extra burst of flavor!
FAQs:
Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Any veggies you like can be tossed in.
One Pot Coconut Curry Chickpeas
Editor’s Choice
Premium Organic Curry Paste Variety Pack – 5 Flavors | Vegan, Dairy-Free…
Amazon$29.99
Mae Ploy Thai Curry Red, Panang and Yellow Paste, Variety Pack 14 oz (Pa…
Amazon$21.99
Thai Kitchen Organic Unsweetened Coconut Milk, 13.66 fl oz (Pack of 12)
Amazon$25.98
Native Forest Organic Unsweetened Coconut Milk – Canned Coconut Milk, No…
Amazon$47.83
Thai Kitchen Gluten Free Unsweetened Coconut Milk, 13.66 fl oz (Pack of 12)
Amazon$29.209. One Pot Shrimp Fried Rice
You want a fast, tasty dinner that feels like takeout without the wait. This shrimp fried rice is ideal for busy evenings. Leftover rice helps speed things up, while shrimp and veggies deliver a satisfying bite. A splash of soy sauce ties it all together.
Ingredients:
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cups cooked rice
1 cup mixed vegetables
2 eggs, beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced.
Instructions:
In a large pot, sauté the shrimp until pink, then set aside.
Add mixed vegetables and garlic, cooking until soft.
Push vegetables to the side and scramble the eggs in the pot.
Add rice and soy sauce, mixing everything together.
Stir in cooked shrimp before serving.
Tips:
Use day-old rice for the best texture!
FAQs:
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw them before cooking.
One Pot Shrimp Fried Rice
Editor’s Choice
SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, 12 Inch Large Deep Frying…
Amazon$39.99
CAROTE 12Inch Nonstick Deep Frying Pan with Lid, 5.5 Qt Jumbo Cooker Sau…
Amazon$29.99
T-Fal Specialty Nonstick Saute Pan with Glass Lid 5 Quart, Oven Broiler …
Amazon$43.75
SENSARTE Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Skillet, 12-inch Saute Pan with Lid, S…
Amazon$49.99
Circulon Radiance Deep Hard Anodized Nonstick Frying Pan /Skillet with L…
Amazon$48.9910. One Pot Ratatouille
You want a vibrant dish that shines with fresh vegetables. This ratatouille in one pot delivers color, aroma, and a wholesome bite. It doubles nicely as a main or a bright side. You can eat it warm or chill it for a light start to the day.
Ingredients:
1 eggplant, diced
2 zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
Olive oil, salt, pepper to taste.
Instructions:
In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, and cook until tender.
Stir in diced tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil.
FAQs:
Can I add other vegetables? Yes, feel free to get creative!
Fun fact: a single pot can deliver a vibrant ratatouille in about 30 minutes, turning fresh vegetables into a complete meal. Perfect for busy families following one pot dinner recipes—colorful, flavorful, and low-cleanup.
One Pot Ratatouille
Editor’s Choice
CAROTE 5QT Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Lid, Heavy-Duty Dutch …
Amazon$39.99
Calphalon® Premier Ceramic Nonstick 7-Qt. Dutch Oven with Lid, Midnight …
Amazon$103.99
Caraway Dutch Oven Pot with Lid (6.5 qt, 10.5″) – Non-Stick Ceramic Coat…
Amazon$135.00
IMUSA 6.9Qt Bistro-Cera Aluminum Speckled Black Ceramic Caldero with Gla…
Amazon$24.99
Nuovva Enamelled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Lid – 6.4 Quart Non Stick…
Amazon$49.9911. One Pot Tomato Basil Chicken
You want a classic dish that comes together fast. Tomato basil chicken fits the bill. Juicy chicken swims in a bright tomato sauce with fresh basil. The aroma fills your kitchen as it cooks. It pairs well with pasta, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
1 lb chicken breasts
1 can crushed tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Instructions:
In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add chicken and brown on both sides.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper.
Cover and simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes.
Serve warm over your choice of side.
FAQs:
Can I use dried basil? Yes, but fresh basil enhances the flavor significantly.
One Pot Tomato Basil Chicken
Editor’s Choice
CAROTE 5QT Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Lid, Heavy-Duty Dutch …
Amazon$39.99
Caraway Dutch Oven Pot with Lid (6.5 qt, 10.5″) – Non-Stick Ceramic Coat…
Amazon$139.00
IMUSA 6.9Qt Bistro-Cera Aluminum Speckled Black Ceramic Caldero with Gla…
Amazon$24.99
Calphalon® Premier Ceramic Nonstick 7-Qt. Dutch Oven with Lid, Midnight …
Amazon$103.99
Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid – Dual Handles – Ov…
Amazon$89.9912. One Pot Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas
You’re after a filling, meatless option that still delivers big flavor. These enchiladas fit the bill in one pot. Sweet potatoes and black beans come together with enchilada sauce for a comforting bite. A toppy finish with yogurt or avocado makes it extra creamy.
Ingredients:
2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can enchilada sauce
8 corn tortillas
1 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
In a pot, sauté onion and sweet potatoes until slightly soft.
Stir in black beans, enchilada sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add corn tortillas, folding them over the filling and allowing to cook in the sauce.
Simmer for about 15-20 minutes until everything is heated through.
Tips:
Top with cheese during the last few minutes for a melty finish!
FAQs:
Can I use flour tortillas? Yes, but corn tortillas are best for traditional enchiladas.
Did you know that one pot dinner recipes can cut cleanup time by up to 50%? These sweet potato and black bean enchiladas prove you don’t sacrifice flavor for simplicity—one pot, big flavor, ready in minutes.
One Pot Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas
Editor’s Choice
CAROTE 5QT Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Lid, Heavy-Duty Dutch …
Amazon$39.99
Calphalon® Premier Ceramic Nonstick 7-Qt. Dutch Oven with Lid, Midnight …
Amazon$103.99
CUKOR 7QT Dutch Oven Pot With Lid, Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven For Bre…
Amazon$49.99
Caraway Dutch Oven Pot with Lid (6.5 qt, 10.5″) – Non-Stick Ceramic Coat…
Amazon$139.00
IMUSA 6.9Qt Bistro-Cera Aluminum Speckled Black Ceramic Caldero with Gla…
Amazon$24.99Conclusion
Finding delicious and healthy one pot dinner recipes can truly transform your family meal times. From zesty pasta to comforting chili, each dish offers a unique flavor profile while keeping cleanup to a minimum.
These recipes not only save you time in the kitchen but also bring your family together around the dinner table, creating moments that matter. Don’t hesitate to try these simple cooking ideas and make weeknight dinners a breeze!
Note: We aim to provide accurate product links, but some may occasionally expire or become unavailable. If this happens, please search directly on Amazon for the product or a suitable alternative.
This post contains Amazon affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are One Pot Dinner Recipes and Why Are They Beneficial?
One pot dinner recipes are meals that can be cooked in a single pot or pan, making them incredibly convenient for busy families.
Not only do they save you time in the kitchen, but they also significantly reduce cleanup time. This means you can spend more quality moments with your family instead of washing dishes! Plus, one pot meals often allow for easy incorporation of healthy ingredients, promoting nutritious eating without the hassle.
How Can I Make My One Pot Meals More Family-Friendly?
To create more family-friendly one pot meals, focus on incorporating ingredients that your kids enjoy.
Consider adding colorful veggies, lean proteins, and flavorful spices to make the dish appealing. You can also involve your children in the cooking process, allowing them to pick ingredients or help with simple tasks. This not only makes the meal more fun but also encourages them to try new foods!
Are One Pot Dinner Recipes Healthy?
Absolutely! One pot dinner recipes can be very healthy, especially when you prioritize fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
By utilizing a variety of ingredients, you can create balanced, nutritious meals that cater to your family’s needs. It’s all about the choices you make in your recipes. Opt for homemade sauces or seasonings to avoid added sugars and preservatives, ensuring that your meals are both delicious and wholesome.
What Are Some Quick Meal Ideas for Busy Weeknights?
For busy weeknights, quick meal ideas include stir-fries, casseroles, or soups that can be made in one pot.
Think of recipes like a one pot chicken and rice or a hearty vegetable stew. These meals can often be prepared in under 30 minutes, allowing you to serve a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can always make extra portions to enjoy as leftovers, making your week even easier!
Can I Adapt One Pot Dinner Recipes for Special Diets?
Yes, one pot dinner recipes are highly adaptable for various dietary needs!
Whether you’re looking for vegetarian, gluten-free, or low-carb options, you can easily swap ingredients to fit your family’s preferences. For instance, replace rice with quinoa for a gluten-free alternative, or use lentils instead of meat for a protein-packed vegetarian meal. The versatility of one pot meals means you can enjoy delicious dinners while catering to everyone’s dietary requirements!
Related Topics
one pot dinner recipes
easy dinner recipes
quick meals
family-friendly recipes
simple cooking
healthy meals
weeknight dinners
30-minute meals
meal prep
busy families
one pot meals
comfort food
