After a long day, the last thing most people want to do is spend hours cooking and cleaning. That’s where one-pot dinners come in. These meals are cooked in just one pan or pot, which means less mess and less time in the kitchen. Here are some easy and tasty one-pot dinner ideas you can try.
1. One-Pot Pasta
Put uncooked pasta, sauce, water, and your choice of veggies or meat all in one big pot. Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer until the pasta is soft and the sauce is thick. You can use things like tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, or chicken. It’s fast, filling, and very easy.
2. Chicken and Rice Skillet
Cook bite-sized chicken pieces in a large pan until they’re browned. Then add uncooked rice, broth, and seasonings. Cover and let it cook until the rice is done. You can toss in peas, carrots, or corn for extra flavor and color.
3. One-Pot Chili
Brown ground beef or turkey in a pot. Add canned beans, diced tomatoes, onions, and your favorite spices like chili powder and cumin. Let it simmer until everything is cooked and the flavors mix together. This is a warm, hearty meal with easy cleanup.
4. Veggie Stir-Fry with Noodles
Cook noodles in the same pot you’ll use for the stir-fry. After draining them, stir-fry your favorite veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Add the noodles back in, toss with soy sauce or stir-fry sauce, and dinner is ready.
5. Sausage and Potato Bake
In a large oven-safe pan, toss sliced sausage, diced potatoes, and chopped vegetables with a little oil and seasoning. Bake in the oven until the potatoes are soft and the sausage is cooked through. It’s a full meal with little effort.
One-pot meals are perfect for busy nights. They cut down on both cooking and cleaning, while still giving you a hot and satisfying dinner. Try adding some of these meals to your weekly plan to save time and enjoy more stress-free evenings.