10 Easy One-Pot Recipes You Need to Try Tonight
Cooking can be time-consuming, especially after a long day of work. However, there is a solution to this problem – one-pot meals. One-pot meals are easy, quick, and require minimal cleanup. In this article, we will be discussing ten easy one-pot recipes that you can try tonight.
Introduction
Cooking can be a daunting task, especially after a long day at work or when you have a busy schedule. But that doesn’t mean you should compromise on delicious and healthy meals. One-pot recipes are a lifesaver in these situations, as they require minimal preparation, cooking time, and cleanup. In this article, we have compiled ten easy and quick one-pot recipes that you can try tonight. From creamy chicken and rice to taco casserole, these recipes are not only tasty but also versatile and customizable to your liking. So, let’s dive in and discover some new dinner ideas.
Recipe 1: One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
Equipment
- Large pot
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and chicken juices.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli or peas, to the dish for extra nutrition and flavor.
ABOUT: This dish is a crowd-pleaser and a great way to use up any leftover chicken you may have. The creamy sauce is made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, which add richness and depth of flavor to the dish. You can also substitute the chicken for shrimp or tofu to make it a vegetarian option.
Recipe 2: One-Pot Spaghetti
One-Pot Spaghetti is a simple and delicious pasta dish that can be made in just one pot. It is a classic recipe that combines spaghetti noodles, a flavorful tomato sauce, and ground beef (or other protein) for a hearty and satisfying meal.
One-Pot Spaghetti
Equipment
- Large pot
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups water
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese grated (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, water, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Break the spaghetti noodles in half and add them to the pot. Push them down into the sauce so that they are fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the spaghetti simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
You can also add your favorite vegetables to the dish, such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms.
Recipe 3: One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
ABOUT: This classic one-pot recipes is a favorite among both kids and adults. The convenience of cooking everything in one pot makes it a great option for busy weeknights. The spaghetti noodles cook in the sauce, absorbing all of the flavors and resulting in a delicious and comforting meal. The addition of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a bit of richness and depth of flavor to the dish.Recipe 3: One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is a flavorful and healthy dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. This one-pot recipes combines succulent shrimp, fresh asparagus, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce for a delicious and nutritious meal.
One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
Equipment
- Large skillet
- wok
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 lb asparagus trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 lemon juiced and zested
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter and let it melt.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the asparagus and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the shrimp is pink and cooked through.
- Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the shrimp and asparagus. Sprinkle lemon zest over the top.
- Toss everything together until well combined and serve hot.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
For a low-carb option, you can serve the shrimp and asparagus over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Recipe 4: One-Pot Vegetarian Chili
One-Pot Vegetarian Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or for feeding a crowd. This one-pot recipes is packed with protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious and delicious meal for any occasion.
One-Pot Vegetarian Chili
Equipment
- Large pot
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 2 carrots peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper seeded and diced
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn drained
- 2 cans diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream shredded cheese, and cilantro for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced bell peppers, carrots, celery, and jalapeño pepper to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro, if desired.
Notes
This recipe can easily be made in a slow cooker by adding all the ingredients to the crockpot and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
ABOUT: This one-pot recipes is not only tasty but also healthy and easy to prepare. Vegetarian chili is a great alternative to traditional meat-based chili and is just as flavorful and satisfying. The recipe uses a variety of vegetables, including bell peppers, carrots, celery, and jalapeño pepper, to provide a range of nutrients and flavors. The combination of beans, corn, and tomatoes adds protein and texture to the dish. This recipe is also easy to make in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or for feeding a crowd.
Recipe 5: One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta
One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make one-pot meal that combines the flavors of fajitas and pasta in one dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1 red bell pepper sliced into thin strips
- 1 green bell pepper sliced into thin strips
- 1 yellow onion sliced into thin strips
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 8 oz uncooked penne pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the sliced peppers and onions and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (including the juices), and uncooked penne pasta to the pot. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, heavy cream, and shredded cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve the One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
ABOUT: One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta is a great alternative to traditional fajitas and pasta dishes. By combining the two, you get a delicious and filling meal that can be made in just one pot, making clean-up a breeze. This one-pot recipes is perfect for those who love Tex-Mex flavors and want to enjoy them in a new and unique way. The creamy sauce and tender chicken and vegetables make this dish a crowd-pleaser that will become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Recipe 6: One-Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole
One-Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Food
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal that is easy to make, look no further than a one-pot sausage and potato casserole. This dish combines savory sausage with tender potatoes, onions, and garlic in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
One-pot sausage and potato casserole
Equipment
- Large pot
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Italian sausage casings removed
- 1 large onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 large potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 1 can 14 oz. diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
- Add the diced potatoes and bell peppers to the pot, along with the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot.
- Let the casserole simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
ABOUT: One-pot meals are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time relaxing. They’re also great for those who don’t enjoy doing dishes. One-pot meals are made by cooking all the ingredients in a single pot or pan, which saves time, energy, and cleanup.
Recipe 7: One-Pot Beef Stroganoff
One-Pot Beef Stroganoff: A Delicious and Easy Dinner Idea
If you’re looking for an easy and delicious dinner idea, one-pot beef stroganoff is the perfect meal. This classic dish is made in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what one-pot beef stroganoff is, how to make it, and why it’s a great option for dinner.
One-pot beef stroganoff
Equipment
- Large pot, stove, wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups egg noodles
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they become tender.
- Sprinkle 1 tbsp of flour and 1 tsp of paprika over the beef mixture and stir well.
- Add beef broth and egg noodles to the pot and stir until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the noodles are cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in sour cream until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional).
Notes
You can use any type of mushrooms for this recipe.
This dish can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
ABOUT: One-pot beef stroganoff is a popular dish that originated in Russia. It was named after the Stroganov family, who were wealthy merchants and landowners in the 18th and 19th centuries. The dish became popular in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s and has remained a favorite ever since. One of the reasons why this dish is so popular is because it’s easy to make and tastes delicious. The beef, mushrooms, and egg noodles are cooked in a creamy sauce made with sour cream, beef broth, and spices, resulting in a savory and satisfying meal.
Recipe 8: One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
One-pot meals are a popular choice for busy weeknights, and the One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is no exception. This one-pot recipes is easy to prepare, delicious, and uses only one pot for minimal cleanup.
The One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot with lid
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- Parmesan cheese grated (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Pour the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper into the pot and stir everything together.
- Add the spaghetti to the pot and use the wooden spoon to push it down until it is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover with the lid. Let it simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the spaghetti is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Once the spaghetti is fully cooked, stir in the chopped basil and remove the pot from the heat.
- Serve the pasta hot, with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired) on top.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
This recipe can be made with gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.
ABOUT: The One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a popular Italian dish that has been adapted to a one-pot recipes for easy preparation and minimal cleanup. This one-pot recipes is perfect for those who are short on time or don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. The combination of tomatoes, cream, and fresh basil creates a flavorful and creamy sauce that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Recipe 9: One-Pot Chicken and Dumplings
One-Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe uses simple ingredients and can be made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The chicken is tender and flavorful, and the dumplings are soft and fluffy. This dish is sure to warm you up on a chilly evening.
Summary: One-Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Equipment
- Large pot with lid
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 medium carrots peeled and sliced into rounds
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the carrots, celery, thyme, and rosemary to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the milk and stir until smooth.
- Drop the dough by spoonfuls onto the simmering broth. Cover the pot and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
- Return the chicken to the pot and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
This recipe can be easily doubled to serve more people.
ABOUT: Chicken and Dumplings is a traditional dish in American cuisine. It originated in the Southern United States, and is now enjoyed across the country. The dish typically consists of chicken cooked in broth or gravy, with dumplings added towards the end of cooking. It is often served as a main course, and is popular during the colder months of the year.
Recipe 10: One-Pot Taco Casserole
One-Pot Taco Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Dinner Recipe
If you’re looking for an easy dinner recipe that’s both delicious and satisfying, you need to try one-pot taco casserole. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook, but still want a tasty and filling meal. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ingredients you have in your pantry and fridge.
One-pot taco casserole
Equipment
- Large skillet or pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Optional toppings: avocado sour cream, cilantro, jalapeños, etc.
Instructions
- In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Add the bell pepper, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juices), uncooked rice, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
- Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Serve the one-pot taco casserole hot, topped with your favorite toppings, if desired.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
ABOUT:One-pot taco casserole is a dish that’s popular in Mexican cuisine. It’s made by combining ground beef or turkey with rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and a variety of spices. It’s typically served hot and topped with shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, or other toppings of your choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, one-pot recipes are a great option for those looking for a quick and easy meal with minimal cleanup. The 10 recipes listed here, including One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus, and One-Pot Vegetarian Chili, offer a variety of delicious options for any taste preference. With estimated cost and custom time labels, you can plan and prepare these meals with ease. So, give these one-pot recipes a try tonight and enjoy a tasty and hassle-free dinner!
