20 One-Pot Dinner Ideas for Easy Cleanup

Cooking dinner doesn’t have to result in a pile of dishes. One-pot meals are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, offering delicious flavors and minimal cleanup. Below are 20 detailed recipes for easy and satisfying one-pot dinners.

1. Chicken and Rice Casserole

This comforting dish combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and vegetables in a single pot.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add a drizzle of oil and sear chicken thighs until golden brown.
   • Remove chicken and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
   • Stir until vegetables are softened.
3. Add rice, chicken broth, and seasonings.
   • Mix well and return chicken to the pot.
4. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25–30 minutes.
   • Check to ensure rice is cooked and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in a mix of olive oil, garlic, paprika, and a splash of lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking. This adds depth to the dish.

2. Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff

A creamy and hearty classic ready in one pot.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 8 oz egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Drain excess fat and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms.
   • Cook until mushrooms are soft.
3. Return beef to the pot and pour in beef broth.
   • Bring to a boil.
4. Add egg noodles and reduce heat to simmer.
   • Stir occasionally until noodles are cooked.
5. Mix in sour cream and season to taste.
   • Heat through but do not boil.
6. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Tip: Use a mix of mushrooms (like cremini, shiitake, and button) for a more complex flavor. Also, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a tangy kick.

3. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

A light and flavorful dish perfect for seafood lovers.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 cloves minced garlic
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot.
   • Sauté shrimp until pink and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes.
   • Stir until fragrant.
3. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
   • Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions.
4. Return shrimp to the pot and stir in lemon juice.
   • Toss until well combined.
5. Season to taste and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tip: Add a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic for an extra layer of flavor. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest for a bright, fresh touch.

4. Vegetarian Chili

A hearty, plant-based option packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 cup canned kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 2 cups diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot and sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers.
   • Stir until softened.
2. Add beans, corn, tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
   • Mix well.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin.
   • Bring to a boil and reduce heat to simmer.
4. Simmer for 20–25 minutes.
   • Adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve hot with toppings like avocado, cilantro, or shredded cheese.

Tip: For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a small chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.

5. Creamy Tuscan Chicken

A rich and flavorful dish perfect for indulging.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet and sear chicken breasts on both sides.
   • Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
   • Add chicken broth and heavy cream.
3. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
   • Simmer until sauce thickens.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and add spinach.
   • Simmer until chicken is fully cooked.
5. Serve with crusty bread or over pasta.

Continue this detailed format for all 20 recipes, ensuring each has a list of ingredients and clearly numbered steps for easy preparation. Once complete, finish with a conclusion.

Tip: Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for a richer flavor. Reserve a bit of the oil to sauté the garlic for an extra boost of tomato essence.

6. Vegetable Fried Rice

A quick and wholesome meal packed with colorful veggies.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 eggs
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok.
   • Sauté garlic until fragrant.
2. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender.
3. Push veggies to one side and crack eggs into the skillet.
   • Scramble and cook until set.
4. Mix eggs with vegetables and add cooked rice.
   • Stir until well combined.
5. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice.
   • Toss to coat evenly.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Tip: Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture. Add a splash of toasted sesame oil at the end for a nutty aroma.

7. One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

A kid-friendly favorite with cheesy, beefy goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 diced onion
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef in a large pot.
   • Drain excess fat and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic.
   • Stir until softened.
3. Add macaroni, beef broth, milk, and tomatoes.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
4. Stir occasionally until pasta is tender.
5. Mix in cheddar cheese and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Stir until cheese is melted and creamy.
6. Serve immediately.

Tip: Add a tablespoon of mustard or ketchup to the sauce for a classic cheeseburger flavor. Top with pickles for a fun twist.

8. Spicy Sausage and Rice Skillet

A flavorful and slightly spicy dish for hearty appetites.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage (sliced)
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 diced onion
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet and brown sausage slices.
   • Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté onions and bell peppers in the same skillet.
   • Stir until softened.
3. Add rice, chicken broth, tomatoes, and seasonings.
   • Bring to a boil.
4. Return sausage to the skillet and stir.
   • Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot.

Tip: Use andouille sausage for an authentic Cajun flavor. Add a splash of hot sauce at the end for extra heat.

9. Chicken Alfredo Pasta

A creamy and indulgent pasta dish made in one pot.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts (sliced)
• 8 oz fettuccine
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
   • Sear chicken slices until golden brown.
   • Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté garlic in the same skillet.
   • Add chicken broth, cream, and fettuccine.
3. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to simmer.
   • Stir occasionally until pasta is al dente.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and mix in Parmesan cheese.
   • Stir until sauce is creamy and smooth.
5. Season to taste and serve with extra cheese on top.

Tip: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the Alfredo sauce for a subtle warmth that complements the creaminess.

10. One-Pot Lasagna Soup

All the flavors of lasagna in a hearty soup.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 8 oz lasagna noodles (broken into pieces)
• 4 cups chicken or beef broth
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef in a large pot.
   • Drain excess fat and set aside.
2. Sauté onions and garlic in the same pot.
   • Stir until fragrant.
3. Add broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings.
   • Bring to a boil.
4. Stir in lasagna noodles and reduce heat.
   • Simmer until noodles are tender.
5. Serve hot with a dollop of ricotta and a sprinkle of mozzarella on each bowl.

Tip: Stir in a handful of fresh basil leaves just before serving for a burst of freshness. Serve with garlic bread for dipping.

11. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili

A nutritious and hearty vegan option.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups diced sweet potatoes
• 1 cup black beans (canned, drained, and rinsed)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot and sauté onions and garlic.
   • Stir until softened.
2. Add sweet potatoes, black beans, tomatoes, corn, and broth.
   • Stir well.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
4. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve with avocado slices or tortilla chips.

Tip: Roast the sweet potatoes before adding them to the chili for a caramelized, slightly crispy texture.

12. Thai Green Curry with Chicken

A fragrant and creamy curry that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs (boneless)
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup green beans
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 2 tbsp green curry paste
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet and brown chicken thighs.
   • Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté green curry paste.
   • Stir until fragrant.
3. Add coconut milk, chicken broth, and vegetables.
   • Stir and bring to a boil.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer until fully cooked.
5. Add fish sauce and lime juice.
   • Stir and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve over steamed rice.

Tip: Use fresh Thai basil instead of regular basil for an authentic flavor. Add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the spiciness.

13. Chicken Enchilada Skillet

A Mexican-inspired dish loaded with cheesy goodness.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup enchilada sauce
• 1 cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 6 small corn tortillas (cut into strips)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
   • Add tortilla strips and sauté until lightly crisped.
2. Add shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, and corn.
   • Stir well to combine.
3. Sprinkle cheese over the top and cover with a lid.
   • Cook on low heat until cheese is melted.
4. Garnish with green onions and serve with sour cream or guacamole.

Tip: Top with a handful of crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. Serve with a side of lime wedges for a zesty finish.

14. One-Pot Jambalaya

A flavorful Creole dish with sausage, chicken, and shrimp.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup diced chicken breast
• 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1/2 lb smoked sausage (sliced)
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 diced onion
• 1 diced bell pepper
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot and brown sausage slices.
   • Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté chicken, onions, and bell peppers.
   • Stir until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add rice, chicken broth, tomatoes, and Cajun seasoning.
   • Stir and bring to a boil.
4. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
   • Add shrimp during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
5. Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot.

Tip: Use a mix of chicken, shrimp, and andouille sausage for a traditional flavor. Add a bay leaf while simmering for extra depth.

15. Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini

A vegetarian pasta dish with a rich tomato-basil sauce.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz cheese tortellini
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
   • Sauté garlic until fragrant.
2. Add tomato sauce and heavy cream.
   • Stir until well combined.
3. Bring to a gentle simmer and add tortellini.
   • Cook according to package instructions.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil.
   • Serve immediately.

Tip: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula at the end for a pop of color and added nutrients.

16. Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes

A zesty one-pot meal with Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large skillet and sear chicken thighs on both sides.
   • Remove and set aside.
2. Add potatoes to the skillet and sauté until lightly browned.
3. Return chicken to the skillet and drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil.
   • Sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25–30 minutes.
   • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Serve hot with a side of tzatziki sauce.

Tip: Add a few Kalamata olives and a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving for an authentic Greek touch.

17. One-Pot Ratatouille

A French-inspired vegetable medley perfect as a main or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup diced eggplant
• 1 cup zucchini (sliced)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot.
   • Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers.
   • Stir and cook until slightly softened.
3. Stir in tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
   • Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
4. Adjust seasoning and serve as a main dish or alongside crusty bread.

Tip: Serve with a dollop of herbed goat cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet twist.

18. Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

A budget-friendly dish that’s quick and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet.
   • Drain excess fat.
2. Add onions and garlic to the skillet.
   • Sauté until softened.
3. Stir in shredded cabbage, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
   • Cook until cabbage is tender.
4. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
   • Serve hot.

Tip: Add a splash of rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar at the end for a tangy finish. Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice.

19. Shrimp and Orzo Primavera

A light and healthy pasta dish with fresh veggies.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced zucchini
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
   • Sauté shrimp until pink and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
   • Stir until tender.
3. Add orzo, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning.
   • Stir and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer until orzo is cooked.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine.
   • Serve immediately.

Tip: Add a handful of fresh herbs like dill or parsley at the end for a fresh, vibrant flavor.

20. Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash

A healthy and filling meal for any time of day.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups diced sweet potatoes
• 1 diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet and brown ground turkey.
   • Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic.
   • Stir until softened.
3. Add sweet potatoes and smoked paprika.
   • Cook until potatoes are tender.
4. Return turkey to the skillet and mix well.
   • Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

Tip: Top with a fried or poached egg for a hearty breakfast-for-dinner option. Add a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Conclusion

With this complete set of 20 one-pot dinner recipes, you have a wide array of options for every craving and occasion. These recipes are easy to follow, delicious, and minimize the hassle of cleaning up. Try them out and enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction of one-pot cooking!