15 Delicious One-Pot Meals Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Busy weeknights can make dinner time hectic, but one-pot meals are here to save the day!

These 15 delicious recipes are not only quick and easy to prepare, but they also clean up like a breeze.

From hearty stews to comforting pasta dishes, you will find everything you need to whip up a satisfying dinner without the fuss.

Get ready to enjoy flavorful and filling meals that fit perfectly into your busy schedule!

List Of 5 Delicious One-Pot Meals Below

Vegetable Quinoa Pilaf

Vegetable Quinoa Pilaf is a vibrant and wholesome dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Packed with colorful veggies and protein-rich quinoa, this meal is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.

The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, creating a satisfying and nutritious one-pot meal.

This recipe is straightforward, making it a great choice for anyone looking to whip up a quick dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

You can customize the veggies based on what you have on hand, making it versatile and adaptable.

Enjoy the comforting taste of this pilaf while knowing you’re nourishing your body.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the diced bell pepper and cherry tomatoes, stirring for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
4. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
5. Fold in the black beans and let sit covered for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

One-Pot Chicken and Rice

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice is a fantastic meal for busy weeknights. It’s simple to prepare and packs a delicious punch with every bite.

The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and colorful vegetables makes it a comforting dish that everyone will love.

The fragrant spices and savory broth enhance the flavors, making it a satisfying option for dinner.

Plus, the best part is that everything cooks together in one pot, saving you time on cleanup!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Season the chicken thighs with paprika, salt, and pepper. Add them to the pot and brown on both sides.
3. Once the chicken is browned, add the rice and stir for a minute to coat it in the oil.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes.
5. Add the mixed vegetables and stir gently. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil with a creamy sauce.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet quick to prepare.

The balance of tangy tomatoes and aromatic basil creates a taste that feels like a warm hug.

This recipe is simple to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings.

You can have a delicious meal on the table in no time without sacrificing flavor.

Dive into this one-pot wonder and enjoy its creamy goodness!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté the Tomatoes: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional Parmesan and basil if desired. Enjoy your creamy tomato basil pasta!

Spicy Sausage and Lentil Stew

This Spicy Sausage and Lentil Stew is perfect for busy weeknights.

It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

The combination of spicy sausage and tender lentils creates a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.

With a delightful mix of spices and veggies, this stew is both satisfying and nutritious.

Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have in your pantry.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple to make yet full of flavor, this recipe is a great choice among the 15 One-Pot Meals for Busy Weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound spicy sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes, until the veggies are tender.
3. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the lentils, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Shrimp Paella

Shrimp paella is a delightful one-pot meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Spain right to your kitchen.

This dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with taste, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Imagine tender shrimp nestled in a bed of saffron-infused rice, complemented by fresh vegetables and spices that dance on your palate.

The preparation is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

With each bite, you’ll savor the combination of succulent seafood and aromatic rice, creating a comforting and satisfying dinner that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 cup green peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened.
2. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, and saffron, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Arborio rice, stirring well to coat the grains with the oil and spices.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
5. Gently fold in the shrimp and green peas, covering again and cooking until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove from heat, let it sit for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and satisfying dish that packs a punch of flavor.

With tender beef and vibrant broccoli, it’s a winning combo that brings a taste of takeout to your kitchen.

The dish is simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

In just one pot, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s both nutritious and appealing to the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine sliced beef, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef, cooking until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds, then add broccoli florets. Pour in the beef broth and cover, steaming for around 3 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender.
4. Combine: Return the beef to the skillet, add sesame oil, and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve: Enjoy the stir-fry over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

The rich flavors of mushrooms combined with the creamy texture of arborio rice create a delightful meal that feels indulgent without being complicated.

It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to whip up a satisfying dinner in one pot.

This dish is not only packed with umami goodness but is also simple to make.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Whether you’re a risotto veteran or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight staple!

Ingredients

• 1 cup arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable broth in a saucepan and keep it warm on low heat.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, and cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the arborio rice, allowing it to toast for about 2 minutes.
5. If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer until mostly absorbed.
6. Begin adding the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until most of the liquid is absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Taco Pasta Bake

The Taco Pasta Bake is a fun and hearty dish that brings together the flavors of tacos and pasta into one comforting meal.

It’s cheesy, slightly spicy, and loaded with flavors that everyone will love. Plus, it’s so easy to make—perfect for a busy weeknight!

This one-pot meal is a crowd-pleaser that combines pasta, ground meat, and taco seasoning, topped with gooey melted cheese.

You can adjust the toppings to your taste, making it a versatile favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• ½ cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large oven-safe pot, brown the ground meat over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the pot and mix until everything is well combined. Top with shredded cheese and diced bell peppers.
4. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.

Chickpea Curry

Chickpea curry is a delicious and hearty dish that captures the essence of comfort food.

It combines tender chickpeas with a rich and aromatic sauce, making it a satisfying option for busy weeknights.

This meal is not only tasty but also incredibly simple to prepare, taking just about 20 minutes from start to finish.

The flavors in this recipe are vibrant and appealing, with spices that bring warmth and depth.

Serve it over rice or with flatbread for a complete meal.

Perfect for those who are looking for quick and easy one-pot meals, this chickpea curry is sure to please your taste buds and your schedule!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooked rice or flatbread for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, coconut milk, curry powder, and cumin. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside rice or flatbread.

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a delightful and simple dish that brings a burst of fresh flavors to your dinner table.

The combination of juicy shrimp sautéed in a rich butter sauce with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic makes for a tasty meal that you can whip up in no time.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot meal is not only satisfying but also makes cleanup a breeze.

The savory taste of garlic paired with the brightness of lemon creates a deliciously balanced dish that complements the sweetness of the shrimp.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when you want something quick yet flavorful.

This dish fits perfectly into the list of 15 One-Pot Meals for Busy Weeknights, and it’s sure to impress anyone at your table!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• 8 ounces spaghetti or your choice of pasta

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp and stir to combine. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until everything is well coated with the garlic butter sauce.
4. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp!

One-Pot Ratatouille

One-Pot Ratatouille is a delightful and colorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Packed with fresh vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, it offers a burst of flavor and nutrition in every bite.

This recipe is not only simple to make, but it also fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma as it cooks.

The taste is a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet, enhanced by herbs that make it truly special.

Plus, it comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this ratatouille is sure to become a favorite in your collection of One-Pot Meals Recipes!

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let the ingredients simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the vegetables are tender and well combined, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Pasta e Fagioli

Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting Italian classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

With its hearty mix of pasta, beans, and vegetables, this dish is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. It’s a one-pot meal that combines simple ingredients into a delicious and warming soup.

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation.

Just toss everything into one pot and let it simmer while you relax.

The blend of savory broth and tender pasta makes it a family favorite that can be ready in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or shells)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
3. Add the cannellini beans and pasta, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Coconut Chicken Curry

Coconut Chicken Curry is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a creamy coconut milk base.

This recipe offers a rich, slightly sweet flavor with hints of spices that make each bite a comforting experience.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights as it comes together quickly in just one pot, reducing both prep and cleanup time.

The creamy texture of the coconut milk paired with aromatic spices creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to please your family.

Serve it over fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious sauce, and you have a complete meal that feels special without being complicated.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cilantro for garnish
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Sprinkle in the curry powder and turmeric, stirring to coat the chicken evenly.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Add the bell peppers and soy sauce, then let the curry simmer for about 15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers

Spinach and feta stuffed peppers are a delightful and healthy dish that makes weeknight dinners a breeze.

Bursting with flavor, these peppers are filled with a savory mix of spinach, creamy feta, and aromatic herbs, creating a tasty and satisfying meal.

Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also come together in one pot, making cleanup easy.

Perfect for busy weeknights, these stuffed peppers are not just nutritious but also visually appealing, adding a pop of color to your dinner table.

Enjoy a comforting and wholesome dinner that the whole family will love!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Arrange them upright in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped spinach, feta cheese, cooked quinoa or rice, toasted pine nuts, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it in gently.
5. Drizzle a little olive oil over the stuffed peppers.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to lightly brown the tops.
7. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious spinach and feta stuffed peppers!

Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a comforting dish that combines tender beef with a creamy mushroom sauce, making it a favorite for busy weeknights.

The rich flavors and hearty texture come together simply, perfect for those looking for quick one-pot meals. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients!

This recipe is all about convenience without sacrificing flavor.

You’ll find it comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Serve it over egg noodles, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces egg noodles

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions and mushrooms. Sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
5. Combine: Reduce heat to low, stir in the sour cream, and return the beef to the pot. Mix well and cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve: Toss the noodles with the beef mixture and serve hot.