As someone who loves to cook but hates doing dishes, one-pan recipes have been a game-changer for me. They are not only easy to prepare but also require minimal cleanup, making them the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
In my personal experience, one-pan recipes have saved me time, money, and stress in the kitchen. With just one dish to wash, I can spend more time enjoying my meal and less time cleaning up after it. Plus, they are incredibly versatile and can be customized to fit any taste preference or dietary restriction.
Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, one-pan recipes are a great way to simplify your cooking routine while still enjoying delicious, homemade meals. From sheet pan dinners to skillet suppers, there are countless options to choose from that will satisfy your taste buds and keep your kitchen mess-free. So, if you’re looking to simplify your cooking routine without sacrificing flavor, give these 10 amazing one-pan recipes a try!
1. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Potatoes and Green Beans
As someone who loves cooking and eating healthy, flavorful meals, the Lemon Garlic Butter Thighs and Green Beans Skillet recipe has quickly become a go-to in my meal planning rotation. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it is also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a great choice for a satisfying and nutritious dinner.
What I love about this recipe is the combination of zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and savory butter that adds a burst of flavor to the juicy chicken thighs and tender green beans. It is a perfect dish to whip up on busy weeknights when time and energy are limited, but you still want a delicious meal that is both satisfying and healthy.
Moreover, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to cut down on cleanup time, as it is a one-pan recipe. Cooking everything in one skillet means less mess to clean up after dinner and more time to relax and enjoy the meal. Overall, this Lemon Garlic Butter Thighs and Green Beans Skillet recipe is a winner in my book, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a delicious, easy, and healthy dinner option.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 lb. green beans, trimmed
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 tsp. dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
- Season chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear chicken until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add green beans and sauté for 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Add chicken broth, butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes to the skillet, and stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them among the green beans.
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 12-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the green beans are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley if desired.
2. Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas with Bell Peppers and Onions
The One Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas recipe has become one of my favorite go-to recipes for busy weeknights or when I’m craving something delicious and healthy. As someone who loves bold, spicy flavors, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and tanginess.
What I love about this recipe is that it is easy to prepare, requiring minimal prep work and only one pan to cook everything. The combination of juicy shrimp, tender bell peppers, and sweet onions is a winning combination, and the homemade fajita seasoning is simply delicious. The aroma that fills the kitchen as the fajitas cook is simply irresistible.
Moreover, this recipe is a great option for those who are trying to eat healthy, as it is low in calories and packed with protein and essential nutrients. The colorful bell peppers and onions provide a dose of antioxidants, while the shrimp is a great source of lean protein.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 3 tbsp. olive oil
- 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Flour or corn tortillas, for serving
- Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add sliced bell peppers and onion to the bowl and toss to coat with the seasoning mixture.
- Spread the vegetables evenly onto a large baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and add the shrimp on top of the vegetables, making sure they are evenly distributed.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Serve hot with flour or corn tortillas, and optional toppings such as avocado, sour cream, cilantro, or lime wedges.
3. One-Pan Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms and Egg Noodles
Beef stroganoff has always been a favorite comfort food of mine, and the Easy Beef Stroganoff recipe from Spend with Pennies has quickly become one of my go-to dishes. What I love about this recipe is that it delivers all the classic flavors and creamy texture of traditional beef stroganoff, but in a quick and easy-to-make version that doesn’t require hours of cooking.
The combination of tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and rich sour cream creates a perfect harmony of flavors that is both savory and indulgent. The sauce is thick, velvety, and has just the right amount of tang from the sour cream. I also appreciate that this recipe calls for simple ingredients that I usually have on hand, making it a great option for a last-minute weeknight dinner.
I also love how versatile this recipe is. It can be served over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice, depending on your preference. The leftovers are also delicious and can be reheated easily for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz. sliced mushrooms
- 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Egg noodles or mashed potatoes, for serving
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook beef until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Gradually stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened.
- Return the beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream until well combined and heated through.
- Serve hot over egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
4. Skillet Lasagna with Spinach and Ricotta Cheese
Lasagna is one of those classic comfort foods that always hits the spot, but making it from scratch can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. That’s why I love the 30-Minute Skillet Lasagna recipe from Five Heart Home. This recipe delivers all the flavors and textures of traditional lasagna, but in a quick and easy-to-make version that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes.
What I love about this recipe is that it uses simple ingredients that I usually have on hand, such as ground beef, canned tomatoes, and lasagna noodles. The sauce is flavorful and hearty, with just the right balance of spices and herbs. The noodles cook right in the sauce, eliminating the need for a separate pot of boiling water.
I also appreciate that this recipe is customizable. I often add extra vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers or spinach, to make it a more well-rounded meal. And the leftovers are just as delicious as the original dish, making it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is tender. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles to the skillet, pressing them down into the sauce. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the skillet. Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
5. One-Pan Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken with Asparagus and Tomatoes
As a busy person with a love for delicious food, I’m always on the lookout for quick and easy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor. That’s why I absolutely love the One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken and Asparagus recipe from Creme de la Crumb. This recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when I want a healthy and satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours of prep and cleanup.
What I love most about this recipe is how simple and straightforward it is. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of garlic, herbs, and spices, which gives it a delicious savory flavor. The asparagus is cooked alongside the chicken in the same pan, making for easy cleanup and a complete meal in one dish.
Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it’s also healthy and nutritious. Asparagus is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is high in vitamins and fiber, and chicken is a great source of protein. The combination of the two makes for a balanced and satisfying meal that leaves me feeling full and energized.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with the seasoning mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned.
- Add the asparagus to the skillet, nestling it between the chicken breasts.
- Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Squeeze lemon wedges over the chicken and asparagus before serving.
6. Sheet Pan Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts
I absolutely love sheet pan dinners for their convenience and the ability to have a complete meal with minimal cleanup. This easy sheet pan pork tenderloin dinner recipe from A Wicked Whisk is no exception and has quickly become one of my favorites.
The combination of tender pork tenderloin, roasted vegetables, and crispy roasted potatoes all cooked together on one pan is simply delicious. The seasoning blend of garlic, rosemary, and thyme gives the pork a savory and herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the roasted vegetables.
What I also appreciate about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily switch out the vegetables to your liking, whether it be broccoli, carrots, or even Brussels sprouts. Additionally, the pork tenderloin can be swapped out for chicken or even beef.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby carrots
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the pork tenderloin in the center of the prepared baking sheet and brush the garlic-herb mixture over the entire surface of the pork.
- Surround the pork with the halved baby potatoes, baby carrots, and onion wedges.
- Drizzle the remaining garlic-herb mixture over the vegetables and toss to coat.
- Roast the pork and vegetables for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) and the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
7. One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
I absolutely love this Chicken with Spinach in Creamy Parmesan Sauce recipe because it is a perfect combination of healthy greens, tender chicken, and a rich and creamy sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend dinners with friends and family.
The chicken is first seasoned and cooked in a skillet until it is golden brown and tender. Then, fresh spinach is added to the skillet and cooked until it wilts down. The creamy Parmesan sauce is made by combining chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. The sauce is then poured over the chicken and spinach and cooked until it thickens to a perfect consistency.
The combination of the tender chicken, earthy spinach, and rich Parmesan sauce is absolutely delicious. This dish is not only comforting and satisfying but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy and balanced meal. Plus, the fact that it can be made in just one skillet means less clean-up and more time to enjoy the delicious meal!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Add olive oil to the skillet and add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts down.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy Parmesan sauce over the chicken and spinach.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is hot and bubbly.
- Serve and enjoy!
8. Skillet Cornbread Topped Chili with Avocado and Sour Cream
I absolutely love this Cornbread with Cheddar, Feta, and Jalapeno recipe from Joanne Eats Well With Others. As someone who enjoys the combination of savory and spicy flavors, this cornbread is a dream come true. It is the perfect side dish to any meal and can even be enjoyed on its own as a snack.
What I love most about this recipe is the combination of ingredients. The sharp cheddar cheese and tangy feta complement each other so well, while the jalapeno adds just the right amount of spice to the mix. The cornmeal base gives it a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the cheese and jalapeno.
This cornbread is also incredibly easy to make. It only takes a few minutes to prepare the batter and then it bakes in the oven in just 20-25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy recipe that delivers big on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeno peppers
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and buttermilk together until well combined.
- Pour the melted butter into the egg mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled feta cheese, and diced jalapeno peppers.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
9. One-Pan Salmon with Roasted Vegetables and Lemon Herb Butter
As someone who is always on the lookout for quick and easy meals that are both healthy and delicious, this Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon recipe has become a go-to for me. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition.
The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter creates a deliciously rich and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the fresh flavor of the salmon. The dish is also packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain function and heart health. Plus, the addition of asparagus and cherry tomatoes adds extra vitamins and fiber to the meal.
I also appreciate how easy this recipe is to customize. I can easily swap out the asparagus for another favorite vegetable or change up the seasoning to suit my tastes. And because everything cooks together on one sheet pan, clean-up is a breeze.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
- 1 pint of cherry tomatoes
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons of butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges and chopped parsley for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and place them in the center of the prepared sheet pan.
- Arrange the asparagus and cherry tomatoes around the salmon.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dried oregano.
- Drizzle the garlic lemon butter sauce over the salmon and vegetables.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve the Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon hot, garnished with lemon wedges and chopped parsley.
10. Sheet Pan Ratatouille with Chickpeas and Quinoa
As a vegetarian, I am always on the lookout for delicious and healthy meals that don’t compromise on taste. That’s why I love this recipe for roasted chickpea ratatouille from Love and Lemons. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that features a mix of roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and fragrant herbs. What I love about this recipe is that it’s easy to customize based on what vegetables you have on hand, making it a versatile dish that you can enjoy any time of year.
The combination of sweet bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with savory onions and garlic creates a harmonious flavor profile that is both satisfying and comforting. The addition of protein-rich chickpeas not only makes this dish more filling but also adds a nutty flavor and creamy texture that complements the vegetables perfectly. I also appreciate that this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Overall, this roasted chickpea ratatouille is a perfect meal for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic pantry staples, you can create a satisfying meal that is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 small eggplant, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 zucchini, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 yellow squash, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small red onion, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, eggplant, bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, red onion, and garlic.
- Add in the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture out on a large baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and the chickpeas are golden brown.
- Serve the roasted chickpea ratatouille hot, topped with fresh basil.
Conclusion
I hope that this list of 10 amazing one-pan recipes has inspired you to simplify your cooking routine and try some new, delicious dishes. These recipes are not only easy to prepare but also require minimal cleanup, making them the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Thank you for taking the time to read through this list, and I hope that you find some recipes that you love and can add to your meal planning repertoire. Cooking should be enjoyable, and these one-pan recipes are sure to make mealtime stress-free and delicious. Happy cooking!
