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Finding a dinner recipe that’s both delicious and easy to make can be a challenge, especially when you’re looking for minimal clean-up and maximum flavor.
That’s where one-pot dinner recipes come to the rescue!
These meals allow you to prepare a satisfying dish with only a single pot or pan, cutting down on prep time, cooking time, and the dreaded cleanup afterward.
Whether you’re in the mood for hearty meat dishes, flavorful vegetarian options, or quick comfort food, there’s a one-pot recipe perfect for any craving.
In this collection of 22+ one-pot dinner recipes, you’ll discover an array of mouth-watering meals that will keep your weeknight dinners stress-free and full of flavor!
22+ Quick and Easy One Pot Dinner Recipes for Family Meals

One-pot dinner recipes are not only convenient but also incredibly versatile, offering endless variations for every taste and dietary need.
Whether you’re craving a rich, creamy dish or something lighter and fresher, there’s a one-pot recipe for everyone.
With these 22+ one-pot dinner recipes, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious meals with your loved ones.
So, next time you’re looking for a quick, tasty dinner, skip the multiple pots and pans and try one of these easy, flavorful dishes. You won’t be disappointed!
One-Pot Creamy Chicken Alfredo
Transform a classic Italian dish into a quick and satisfying one-pot meal with this creamy chicken Alfredo recipe.
This dish is packed with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce.
In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to serve without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Start by sautéing pieces of chicken breast in a bit of olive oil until golden brown. Add in garlic and onions, letting the savory aroma fill your kitchen.
Then, pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add uncooked pasta directly into the pot, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid.
Let everything cook together until the pasta is perfectly tender and the sauce has thickened. Finish it off with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley.
This creamy chicken Alfredo is comfort food at its finest and will quickly become a weeknight favorite.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Beef Stroganoff
Savor the rich flavors of a classic Beef Stroganoff in one easy pot! This one-pot version allows the beef to become tender and infuses the sauce with incredible depth of flavor, all while keeping clean-up to a minimum.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in about 40 minutes.
Begin by browning thinly sliced beef in a large pot, letting it caramelize to develop a savory base.
Then, toss in onions, garlic, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.
Next, add beef broth, a touch of mustard, and egg noodles to the pot, ensuring the noodles are covered in the liquid.
Let it simmer until the noodles are soft and the beef is perfectly tender. Stir in sour cream for that creamy, indulgent finish.
The result is a rich, comforting meal that pairs beautifully with a side of greens or crusty bread to soak up all the sauce.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Vegetable Curry
A nourishing and flavorful vegetable curry is the perfect solution for a hearty, plant-based one-pot dinner.
Full of vibrant, wholesome vegetables, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk, this curry is both comforting and satisfying.
It’s perfect for a meatless Monday or anyone craving a flavorful, yet simple meal.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a large pot to create a fragrant base.
Add your favorite veggies—like potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and peas—and cook them with the spices until tender.
Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth, and bring everything to a gentle simmer.
The spices will infuse the broth, creating a fragrant, rich sauce that pairs perfectly with the vegetables.
Finish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness.
Serve this curry over rice or with naan for a complete and filling meal that’s sure to satisfy.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese
Get the classic Italian flavor of a hearty Bolognese in a fraction of the time with this one-pot spaghetti recipe.
It’s an easy, no-fuss dinner that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs with the perfect amount of seasoning, all cooked together in one pot.
The result is a satisfying meal that will leave your family coming back for more.
Begin by browning ground beef in a large pot, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Add diced onions, garlic, and carrot to build a savory base, then pour in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and a touch of red wine (if desired) for extra depth.
Let everything simmer until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
Next, stir in uncooked spaghetti directly into the pot, ensuring the noodles are submerged in the sauce. As the pasta cooks, it soaks up all the delicious flavors of the Bolognese sauce.
Top with Parmesan and fresh basil, and you’ve got a family-friendly dinner that requires minimal clean-up.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Shrimp Paella
Bring the flavors of Spain to your kitchen with this easy, one-pot shrimp paella.
With tender shrimp, smoky chorizo, saffron-infused rice, and a medley of vegetables, this dish is a celebration of vibrant, bold flavors and is surprisingly simple to prepare in one pot.
Start by sautéing shrimp and chorizo in a large skillet until they’re slightly browned.
Remove and set them aside. In the same pot, cook onions, garlic, and bell peppers until they soften, then stir in rice, diced tomatoes, peas, and a generous pinch of saffron (or turmeric for a more affordable alternative).
Add chicken broth and let everything simmer until the rice is cooked and the flavors have melded together.
Once done, return the shrimp and chorizo to the pot, stirring to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon, and you’ve got a festive, one-pot meal that’s sure to impress.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Chicken & Rice
This comforting one-pot chicken and rice recipe is perfect for those nights when you need something simple, filling, and full of flavor.
Juicy chicken thighs are cooked alongside aromatic rice, garlic, onions, and fresh herbs to create a dish that’s both hearty and easy to prepare.
It’s a total crowd-pleaser that requires just one pot and minimal effort.
Start by searing bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in a large pot until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Remove the chicken and set aside, then sauté garlic, onion, and a mix of herbs such as thyme and rosemary in the same pot.
Add long-grain rice and toast it slightly before adding chicken broth.
Nestle the chicken thighs back into the pot, skin-side up, and let everything simmer together until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
For added richness, finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a dollop of sour cream. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and is easy enough for a weeknight meal.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Chili Mac
This one-pot chili mac is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of chili with the cheesy goodness of macaroni.
It’s the perfect meal for a cozy evening, offering a hearty and satisfying dinner that your whole family will love.
With ground beef, beans, pasta, and a robust blend of spices, this dish is an easy one-pot wonder that packs a punch.
Start by browning ground beef in a large pot, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, add onions, garlic, and bell peppers, cooking until softened.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika for a flavorful kick. Add crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth, letting everything simmer together to meld the flavors.
Once the base is ready, stir in uncooked elbow macaroni and let the pasta cook right in the sauce, absorbing all the delicious spices.
Finish the dish with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
This hearty, cheesy chili mac will quickly become a family favorite.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Potatoes
This one-pot lemon herb chicken and potatoes is a simple yet flavorful meal that brings together juicy chicken, crispy potatoes, and bright, citrusy flavors.
It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s not only easy to make but also delivers an impressive presentation.
Start by seasoning bone-in chicken thighs with a mix of lemon zest, garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
Sear the chicken in a large pot until the skin is golden and crispy, then remove it and set it aside. In the same pot, toss in diced potatoes and onions, letting them cook and soak up all the savory chicken juices.
Add a bit of chicken broth and white wine (or just more broth) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Nestle the chicken back in and simmer everything together until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some chopped parsley at the end will brighten up the dish, making it perfect for a comforting yet vibrant dinner.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Sweet Potato & Black Bean Stew
For a hearty and nutritious vegetarian option, try this one-pot sweet potato and black bean stew.
It’s a flavorful, filling dish packed with tender sweet potatoes, hearty black beans, and a mix of spices.
This stew is perfect for a cozy dinner and can be made in less than an hour.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in a large pot until softened.
Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for a few minutes to give them a bit of a caramelized edge. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika for a smoky and warming flavor.
Add vegetable broth, canned tomatoes, and black beans, letting everything simmer until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Finish with a handful of spinach or kale for added greens and a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
This stew is filling and full of flavors that’ll warm you up from the inside out.
Serve it with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Teriyaki Chicken & Rice
This One-Pot Teriyaki Chicken & Rice brings together sweet and savory flavors in a simple, quick-to-make meal.
The chicken is glazed in a homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce, cooked to perfection alongside rice that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
It’s a great weeknight dinner option that feels like a takeout treat, minus the delivery fee!
Start by searing boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large pot to achieve a golden brown crust.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant, then add rice and a splash of soy sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
Pour in chicken broth and a generous amount of teriyaki sauce, stirring to combine. Return the chicken to the pot and let everything simmer until the rice is fully cooked and the chicken is tender.
Serve with steamed broccoli or sautéed greens on the side for a balanced meal.
This one-pot dinner is simple, flavorful, and satisfying, perfect for busy evenings.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Sausage & Peppers
If you’re craving a bold and savory dinner with minimal prep and clean-up, this One-Pot Sausage & Peppers is the perfect choice.
The combination of smoky sausage, tender bell peppers, and onions creates a hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor.
It’s perfect served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.
Start by browning your favorite sausage links in a large pot. Once the sausages are cooked through, remove them and set them aside.
In the same pot, sauté sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic until softened and slightly caramelized. Add in a touch of tomato paste, a splash of chicken broth, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Return the sausages to the pot and let everything cook together, allowing the sausages to infuse the vegetables with their savory juices.
The result is a one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner and loaded with bold, savory flavors.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Mediterranean Quinoa
This One-Pot Mediterranean Quinoa combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in a simple, healthy dish that’s made in just one pot.
Packed with protein-rich quinoa, fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, this meal is light yet satisfying—perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil until fragrant.
Stir in quinoa, allowing it to toast slightly, and then add vegetable broth and a bit of lemon juice for brightness.
As the quinoa cooks, it absorbs all the flavors of the broth and vegetables, making each bite incredibly flavorful.
Once the quinoa is cooked, fold in kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
This Mediterranean-inspired dish is fresh, vibrant, and a perfect vegetarian option that requires just one pot.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot BBQ Chicken & Cornbread
This One-Pot BBQ Chicken & Cornbread recipe brings together smoky, tender BBQ chicken and fluffy, golden cornbread all in one pot, creating a deliciously comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines bold flavors and the convenience of a single pot for easy clean-up.
Start by searing chicken pieces, such as thighs or breasts, in a large oven-safe pot until golden brown.
Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened. Stir in BBQ sauce and a splash of chicken broth, then return the chicken to the pot.
Let the chicken simmer in the sauce until it’s tender and fully cooked.
For the cornbread topping, prepare your favorite cornbread batter and spread it over the chicken and sauce mixture.
Place the pot in the oven to bake until the cornbread is golden and fluffy. The result is a rich, savory dish that’s hearty, filling, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Greek Chicken Orzo
This One-Pot Greek Chicken Orzo combines tender chicken with the vibrant, Mediterranean flavors of olives, feta, and lemon. T
he orzo pasta absorbs all the delicious juices from the chicken and veggies, making this a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Start by searing boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in a large pot until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and a mix of vegetables like zucchini and tomatoes.
Add in orzo pasta, chicken broth, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
Once the pasta has absorbed the broth and cooked through, return the chicken to the pot, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and fresh herbs like oregano and parsley.
This dish is fresh, Mediterranean-inspired, and perfect for an easy, one-pot meal that feels light but filling.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew
This hearty One-Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening.
Packed with tender beef, root vegetables, and a savory broth, this stew is the definition of comfort food and requires just one pot for easy cleanup.
Start by browning chunks of beef stew meat in a large pot to develop deep, savory flavors.
Remove the beef and set it aside, then sauté onions, garlic, and carrots in the same pot until softened.
Add diced potatoes, celery, and a bay leaf, then pour in beef broth, along with a bit of tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce for extra richness.
Let the stew simmer for an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender.
Once ready, serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This one-pot meal is warm, satisfying, and ideal for meal prepping or feeding a family.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Beef and Rice Casserole
This One-Pot Beef and Rice Casserole is an easy, all-in-one dinner that combines savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all cooked together in one pot.
Perfect for busy nights, this casserole delivers a comforting meal that’s both filling and full of flavor.
Start by browning ground beef in a large pot, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Once browned, add diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers, cooking until softened. Stir in rice, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth, and season with herbs like oregano, basil, and a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Top the casserole with shredded cheese and let it melt before serving. This easy, one-pot dish is the perfect comfort food that will please the whole family.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Tuscan Chicken and Potatoes
For a simple yet flavorful meal, this One-Pot Tuscan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a must-try.
Juicy chicken thighs are paired with crispy roasted potatoes, all cooked together in a rich garlic and herb sauce.
This dish is easy to prepare and offers a delicious combination of savory and aromatic flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Start by searing chicken thighs in a large pot until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté garlic, onions, and sun-dried tomatoes, then stir in a bit of chicken broth and heavy cream to create a rich sauce.
Add halved baby potatoes to the pot, allowing them to absorb the savory sauce as they cook.
Nestle the chicken back in, and let everything simmer until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Finish the dish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil for an aromatic and comforting meal.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Sweet and Sour Chicken
This One-Pot Sweet and Sour Chicken is a deliciously tangy and savory dish that combines crispy chicken pieces with a vibrant, flavorful sauce.
It’s a great way to enjoy the taste of your favorite takeout without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Start by browning bite-sized chicken pieces in a large pot until crispy and golden.
Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pot, sauté garlic, ginger, and onions, then add bell peppers, pineapple chunks, and a splash of soy sauce.
Stir in vinegar, sugar, and ketchup to create a tangy-sweet sauce that coats the chicken perfectly. Return the chicken to the pot and let everything simmer together for a few minutes to thicken the sauce.
Serve this sweet and sour chicken over steamed rice for a delicious, quick dinner that packs plenty of flavor.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits
This One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits is a southern classic made easy. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, served over creamy, cheesy grits.
It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together bold flavors with minimal effort—perfect for any night of the week.
Start by cooking the grits in a large pot with chicken broth and a pinch of salt until they’re tender and creamy.
Stir in butter and shredded cheese to make them extra rich and flavorful. While the grits are cooking, sauté shrimp in a separate pan with garlic, butter, and lemon juice until the shrimp are cooked through and perfectly tender.
Combine the shrimp with the grits, stirring gently to incorporate all the flavors.
Top with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat. This dish is decadent, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Taco Pasta
This One-Pot Taco Pasta combines the delicious flavors of taco night with the comforting, cheesy goodness of pasta.
It’s an easy dinner idea that packs all your favorite taco fillings—ground beef, tomatoes, cheese, and seasoning—into one flavorful pot, with pasta cooking right in the mix!
Start by browning ground beef in a large pot and seasoning it with taco seasoning, garlic, and onion.
Stir in a can of diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and uncooked pasta, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
Let everything simmer until the pasta is cooked and the flavors have melded together. Finish by stirring in shredded cheese until it’s gooey and melted, then garnish with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.
This taco pasta is the perfect weeknight meal that combines all the flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta, and it’s all made in one pot.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan is the ultimate combination of crispy, breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese—all cooked together in one pan.
It’s an easy take on the classic Italian dish that saves time without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner.
Start by breading chicken cutlets with a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan, then brown them in a hot pot with a little olive oil.
Once crispy, remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same pot, sauté garlic and onion, then add marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Return the chicken to the pot, top it with mozzarella cheese, and let it simmer until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve this flavorful one-pot meal with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a side of sautéed greens for a complete, comforting dinner.
[Full Recipe]
One-Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo
This One-Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo is a light, flavorful meal that combines juicy chicken, tender orzo pasta, and the bright, zesty flavor of lemon. It’s an easy, fresh dinner that feels like a gourmet meal but is made in just one pot.
Start by browning chicken breasts or thighs in a large pot, then remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and a bit of lemon zest to build a fresh base of flavor.
Add uncooked orzo, chicken broth, and fresh lemon juice, then return the chicken to the pot. Simmer until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
This simple yet vibrant dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
[Full Recipe]
Conclusion
Streamline your meal planning with these 22+ one-pot dinner recipes that make cooking easier than ever. From comforting casseroles to zesty stir-fries, one-pot meals take the guesswork and stress out of cooking, making them ideal for busy weekdays or cozy weekends. These recipes prove that you don’t need to sacrifice flavor for convenience—everything you need for a delicious dinner is cooked in one pot. Start exploring these mouthwatering recipes today, and enjoy the ease and satisfaction of one-pot cooking.