When it comes to dinner time, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen, stuck scrubbing dishes and pots while the family waits for a meal. I created this post because I know how hectic weeknights can get. You want tasty meals that everyone will enjoy, but you also want to keep cleanup to a minimum. That’s where one-pot dinners come in handy. They’re a lifesaver for busy nights, combining flavor and convenience in one dish.
If you’re a busy parent looking for ways to feed your family without the fuss, this blog post is for you. We know that kid-approved recipes can be hard to come by, and you want options that are not only delicious but also easy to whip up. I’ve pulled together 17 one-pot dinner ideas that are not just tasty but also perfect for family meals. These recipes are designed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters, so you can enjoy mealtime without the stress.
With these one-pot recipes, you’ll find that cooking is simpler than ever. Each dish requires minimal prep and cooking time, allowing you to savor moments with your loved ones instead of being stuck at the sink. Get ready to explore dishes that will fill your home with mouthwatering aromas and bring smiles to your family’s faces—all while keeping cleanup to a bare minimum.
Key Takeaways
– One-pot meals save time and effort by combining everything into one dish, reducing the number of pots to clean.
– These dinner ideas are designed specifically for families, ensuring they are kid-approved and delicious.
– You will find a variety of flavors, from creamy chicken and rice to spicy taco pasta, catering to diverse tastes.
– Each recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making cooking less daunting for busy parents.
– Enjoy quality family time around the table without the hassle of extensive meal prep and cleanup.
Contents
- 1. One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
- 2. One-Pot Taco Pasta
- 3. Mediterranean One-Pot Quinoa
- 4. One-Pot Beef Stroganoff
- 5. One-Pot Vegetable Curry
- 6. One-Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers
- 7. One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
- 8. One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli and Rice
- 9. One-Pot Chicken Fajita Rice
- 10. One-Pot Spinach and Artichoke Pasta
- 11. One-Pot Barbecue Chicken and Rice
- 12. One-Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole
- 13. One-Pot Chili Mac
- 14. One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken Rice
- 15. One-Pot Baked Ziti
- 16. One-Pot Chicken and Spinach Alfredo
- 17. One-Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
1. One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
Craving a cozy, comforting meal that the whole family will love? This One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice is just what you need! It’s not only deliciously creamy but also packed with tender chicken and fluffy rice, making it a complete meal in one pot. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the pot until browned on both sides.
3. Add the rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
4. Cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 20 minutes until the rice is tender.
5. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Fluff with a fork before serving and enjoy the creamy goodness!
FAQs:
– Can I use brown rice? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid.
2. One-Pot Taco Pasta
Are you in the mood for a fun twist on taco night? This One-Pot Taco Pasta brings all the vibrant flavors of tacos into a creamy pasta dish! With perfectly seasoned ground beef or turkey, pasta, and cheese, it’s a filling meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, which is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 12 oz rotini pasta
– 1 can black beans, drained
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup salsa
– Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground meat over medium heat.
2. Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, and chicken broth.
3. Add the pasta and bring everything to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once pasta is cooked, stir in black beans and cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
FAQs:
– Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute the meat with lentils or additional beans for a hearty meal.
3. Mediterranean One-Pot Quinoa
Looking for a healthy yet flavorful meal? This Mediterranean One-Pot Quinoa is just the thing! Packed with protein-rich quinoa and fresh veggies like bell peppers and spinach, it’s both nutritious and delicious. The zesty dressing ties everything together, making each bite a delight for your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
3. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir in bell pepper, spinach, and tomatoes.
4. Once quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and combine it with the veggie mixture.
5. Top with crumbled feta before serving.
FAQs:
– How can I store leftovers? This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
4. One-Pot Beef Stroganoff
If you’re searching for a hearty meal, this One-Pot Beef Stroganoff is a classic choice! With tender beef and mushrooms enveloped in a creamy sauce, it’s served over egg noodles for a filling dinner. Plus, everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze after your cozy family meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
– 3 cups beef broth
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and brown the beef strips; then set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion and mushrooms until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Return beef to the pot, add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, and bring to a boil.
4. Stir in egg noodles and reduce heat, covering until noodles are cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in sour cream until creamy and combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat gently on the stove.
5. One-Pot Vegetable Curry
Searching for a delicious meatless dinner option? This One-Pot Vegetable Curry is bursting with spices and fresh veggies, all simmered in a creamy coconut sauce. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for those looking for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, then sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Stir in the curry powder and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth, bringing it to a simmer.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
6. One-Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers
Enjoy a taste of Italy with this One-Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers! Juicy sausages combined with colorful bell peppers and onions create a savory and satisfying dinner. This quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can be served on its own or over pasta or rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or spicy)
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausages and brown on all sides; then remove from pot and slice.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.
3. Return the sausages to the pot with diced tomatoes and seasonings, stirring well.
4. Simmer for about 15 minutes until everything is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken sausage? Yes, chicken sausage works great in this recipe!
7. One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
Looking for a light and flavorful meal? This One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is just the ticket! It’s quick to prepare and features fresh shrimp and tender asparagus cooked in a zesty garlic lemon sauce that will impress your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced and zested
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in asparagus, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook until asparagus is tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon slices.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just be sure to thaw them before cooking.
8. One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli and Rice
Craving a comforting dish that’s both cheesy and healthy? This One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli and Rice is the perfect answer! Combining nutritious broccoli with creamy cheese and tender rice, it’s a family-friendly meal that even the kids will love.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add rice and toast for a minute.
2. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender, about 15 minutes.
4. Stir in broccoli florets, cheese, and milk until everything is combined and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot.
FAQs:
– Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, use plant-based cheese and milk alternatives!
9. One-Pot Chicken Fajita Rice
Want to spice up your dinner? This One-Pot Chicken Fajita Rice is bursting with flavor! Featuring marinated chicken, vibrant peppers, and zesty rice, it’s a fantastic meal cooked all in one pot. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare while still being packed with nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 packet fajita seasoning
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned.
2. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in rice, chicken broth, and fajita seasoning. Bring to a boil.
4. Cover and reduce heat, simmering until rice is cooked, about 20 minutes.
5. Fluff with a fork before serving, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
FAQs:
– How can I adjust the spice level? Add more or less fajita seasoning to suit your taste.
10. One-Pot Spinach and Artichoke Pasta
If you love creamy pasta dishes, this One-Pot Spinach and Artichoke Pasta is a must-try! Blending all the flavors of the classic dip, it transforms into a comforting meal that’s sure to delight everyone at your table. Quick to prepare and super cheesy, it’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of choice
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package directions in salted water; drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, heat a little olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add artichokes, spinach, and heavy cream; stir until heated through.
4. Mix in cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
5. Serve immediately, topped with extra cheese if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
11. One-Pot Barbecue Chicken and Rice
Get ready for a flavor-packed meal with this One-Pot Barbecue Chicken and Rice! Juicy chicken pieces combined with smoky barbecue sauce and fluffy rice create a satisfying dish that your whole family will enjoy. This recipe is perfect for busy nights and will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
– 1 cup rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the chicken pieces, then remove from pot.
2. Add rice to the same pot and toast for a minute.
3. Stir in chicken broth and barbecue sauce, bringing it to a boil.
4. Add the chicken back in along with corn; cover and simmer until rice is cooked, about 20 minutes.
5. Serve hot with extra barbecue sauce if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce? Absolutely! Just choose your favorite brand.
12. One-Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole
Craving something hearty and comforting? This One-Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole combines all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls into one easy dish. Hearty layers of ground meat, rice, and tomatoes make it a filling meal that everyone will love, even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 cup rice
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups beef broth
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the ground meat and onion until cooked through.
2. Add rice, tomatoes, cabbage, and beef broth, stirring well to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover, simmering for about 30 minutes.
4. Stir occasionally until cabbage is tender and rice is cooked.
5. Serve hot, optionally topped with cheese.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this casserole freezes well for up to 3 months.
13. One-Pot Chili Mac
If you love chili and pasta, this One-Pot Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food! Combining hearty chili flavors with elbow macaroni, it’s a filling dish that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Plus, since it’s all cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 can chili beans
– 1 cup elbow macaroni
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 packet chili seasoning
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and brown the ground meat until cooked.
2. Stir in chili beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and chili seasoning.
3. Add elbow macaroni and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until macaroni is tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Serve hot, optionally garnished with cheese and green onions.
FAQs:
– Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
14. One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken Rice
Say hello to a delightful dinner with this One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken Rice! Juicy chicken, olives, and roasted vegetables come together in this easy meal that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It’s both wholesome and satisfying, making it a wonderful choice for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
– 1 cup rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup olives, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes
– 1 tsp oregano
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a pot, heat olive oil and brown the chicken pieces; remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add rice, chicken broth, oregano, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Return chicken and olives to the pot, heating through for a few minutes.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
FAQs:
– Can this be made with brown rice? Yes! Just increase the liquid and cooking time.
15. One-Pot Baked Ziti
Indulge in the cheesy goodness of this One-Pot Baked Ziti! Combining pasta, tomato sauce, and a generous amount of cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser, especially for kids. This dish is a great way to serve up comfort food in a single pot, making it ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ziti pasta
– 3 cups marinara sauce
– 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups water
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and add ziti pasta; toast for a minute.
2. Pour in marinara sauce and water, stirring well.
3. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook until pasta is tender, about 20 minutes.
4. Stir in ricotta and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Top with Parmesan and bake in the oven for an additional 10 minutes if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I use gluten-free pasta? Yes, just adjust the cooking time as needed.
16. One-Pot Chicken and Spinach Alfredo
If you’re in the mood for something creamy and delicious, this One-Pot Chicken and Spinach Alfredo is the perfect meal! Featuring chicken, pasta, and spinach in a rich Alfredo sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that your family will love. Quick to prepare, it’s ideal for a weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup spinach
– 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and brown the chicken until cooked through.
2. Add fettuccine, heavy cream, and enough water to cover the pasta. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the pasta is cooked, about 15 minutes.
4. Stir in spinach and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, there are dairy-free alternatives available for cream and cheese.
17. One-Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Looking for a cozy and sweet dinner option? This One-Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is perfect for ending your day on a warm note! Loaded with sweet apples, cinnamon, and hearty oats, it’s not only delicious but also guilt-free, making it a wonderful choice for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 4 cups water or milk
– 2 apples, diced
– 2 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine oats, water or milk, diced apples, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until oats are soft.
3. Stir in brown sugar if using and serve warm.
4. Top with additional apples or nuts if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen apples? Yes, just thaw and drain them before cooking.
Conclusion
The joy of cooking starts with meals that bring your family together—and these 17 one-pot dinner ideas do just that! They’re easy to prepare, delicious, and designed to minimize cleanup while maximizing flavor.
So, whether you’re cooking for kids or simply looking for tasty, family-friendly meals, these recipes will surely become staples in your household. Try them out and see how they transform your dinner routine into something special!
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