10 One-Pot Meals That Make Weeknight Cooking Simple

Weeknight dinners can often feel like a challenge, especially after a busy day. One-pot meals take the stress out of cooking and cleanup, making them a perfect choice for any night of the week. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, these dishes allow you to enjoy a homemade meal without much hassle. Whether you are cooking for one or feeding a family, these meals offer both convenience and flavor. 

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Beef Stew

A hearty beef stew is a classic comfort food, especially during colder months. This dish is full of rich flavors and tender meat that melts in your mouth. The slow cooking process allows the beef to absorb all the flavors of the broth and vegetables. It is a filling and nutritious meal that requires minimal effort and cleanup.

For the beef stew, you will need stew meat, potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, beef broth, and seasonings like thyme and bay leaves. You can also add celery or peas for additional texture and flavor. The ingredients come together to create a savory base that will warm you up from the inside out.

Brown the beef chunks in a large pot before adding onions, garlic, and broth. Add the vegetables and seasonings and let everything simmer for about an hour or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally to ensure that the ingredients are evenly cooked. Serve hot with a piece of crusty bread on the side for a comforting meal.

Vegetable Curry

A vegetable curry is a flavorful, plant-based one-pot meal that is easy to make and full of nutrients. The creamy coconut milk and rich spices blend together to create a savory and satisfying dish. You can customize the vegetables to suit what is in season or what you have in your pantry. It is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and you can easily make it ahead for lunch the next day.

The key ingredients include mixed vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, and peas. You will also need coconut milk, curry paste, garlic, ginger, and a variety of spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Rice or naan can be served on the side to complement the curry.

Sauté the garlic and ginger in a large pot before adding the curry paste and spices. Add the vegetables and coconut milk, and simmer until the vegetables are tender. Serve the curry over rice or with warm naan bread. For added heat, you can sprinkle chili flakes or serve with a side of chutney.

One-Pot Pasta Primavera

This one-pot pasta primavera is a light and fresh meal that is bursting with vegetables. It is perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something easy yet full of flavor. The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, making the dish even more flavorful. It’s a great way to get your vegetables in without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The ingredients for pasta primavera include pasta, zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also be added to give it a fragrant, fresh flavor. You can use any vegetables you have on hand, making this dish highly customizable.

Start by sautéing the garlic and vegetables in a large pot with olive oil. Add the pasta, water, and seasonings and cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs before serving. This dish can be enjoyed warm or chilled as a pasta salad.

Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya

This flavorful, one-pot jambalaya brings the rich taste of Cajun cuisine to your table. With a combination of chicken, sausage, and rice, it is a filling dish that is packed with spices and smoky flavor. The best part is that all the ingredients are cooked together in one pot, so you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal effort.

The ingredients for jambalaya include chicken thighs, smoked sausage, rice, onions, bell peppers, celery, garlic, and tomatoes. You will also need chicken broth, thyme, cayenne pepper, and paprika to create that classic Cajun flavor. The dish is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well in the refrigerator for several days.

Begin by browning the sausage and chicken in a large pot, then remove them and set them aside. Sauté the vegetables and garlic in the same pot before adding the rice, broth, and seasonings. Return the chicken and sausage to the pot, cover, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color.

Chili

Chili is the ultimate one-pot comfort food, especially for chilly evenings. It’s warm, hearty, and packed with protein and fiber. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, chili is incredibly versatile, allowing you to add your favorite beans, meats, and spices. It also freezes well, making it an ideal option for meal prepping.

The basic ingredients for chili include ground beef or turkey, beans, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chili powder. You can add peppers, corn, and a bit of cumin or paprika for extra flavor. For a heartier version, you can include sweet potatoes or quinoa.

Brown the ground meat in a large pot, then add the onions and garlic to sauté. Add the beans, tomatoes, and seasonings, then let the chili simmer for 30 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Top with sour cream, cheese, or cilantro for extra flavor and texture.

Chicken Alfredo

Chicken Alfredo is a creamy and indulgent one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight. The rich and cheesy sauce coats the pasta, creating a satisfying dish that is both comforting and filling. With the chicken and pasta cooking together in one pot, the dish becomes incredibly easy to make with minimal cleanup.

The ingredients for chicken Alfredo include chicken breast, fettuccine, heavy cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. You can also add broccoli or spinach for some extra vegetables. A bit of nutmeg can enhance the flavor of the sauce.

Cook the chicken in a large pot until browned, then set it aside. In the same pot, melt butter and sauté the garlic before adding the cream and cheese. Add the pasta and cook until it is tender and coated with the creamy sauce. Slice the chicken and serve on top of the pasta.

Shrimp Paella

Shrimp Paella is a one-pot dish that combines tender shrimp, rice, and a flavorful broth infused with saffron. This Spanish dish is perfect for a weeknight when you want something a bit more elegant but still simple to make. It brings together bold flavors in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.

The ingredients for shrimp paella include shrimp, rice, chicken or vegetable broth, saffron, peas, bell peppers, onions, and garlic. You will also need olive oil, lemon, and smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor. You can substitute the shrimp with chicken or seafood depending on your preference.

Sauté the onions, garlic, and peppers in a large pan before adding the rice and broth. Season with saffron, paprika, and a squeeze of lemon. Once the rice is cooked, add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and tender. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a nourishing and filling one-pot meal that’s packed with protein and fiber. This vegetarian soup is perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner. The lentils cook quickly and absorb all the rich flavors from the broth and seasonings. It is an ideal dish for meal prepping, as it tastes even better the next day.

The basic ingredients for lentil soup include lentils, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, vegetable broth, and tomatoes. You can also add spices like cumin, turmeric, and bay leaves for extra flavor. For a creamier version, a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of yogurt can be added.

Sauté the vegetables in a large pot before adding the lentils, broth, and tomatoes. Simmer until the lentils are tender, and the soup has thickened. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and additional spices. Serve hot with a piece of crusty bread.

Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is a comforting one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a flaky crust. It is a satisfying meal that is perfect for colder months or whenever you need something hearty. The best part is that everything cooks in one pot, reducing the amount of cleanup needed.

For this dish, you will need chicken breast or thighs, carrots, peas, potatoes, onions, garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream. You can also use store-bought pie crusts or make your own if preferred. Thyme and rosemary add depth to the savory filling.

Start by cooking the chicken and vegetables in a large pot. Add the broth and cream, then let everything simmer until the vegetables are tender. Pour the filling into a baking dish, cover with the pie crust, and bake until golden brown. Enjoy with a side of salad for a complete meal.

Pork Carnitas

Pork carnitas are tender, flavorful, and perfect for a one-pot meal. The pork is slow-cooked in a pot with spices and citrus until it’s incredibly tender, making it a great filling for tacos, burritos, or bowls. It’s a flavorful and easy dish that you can enjoy all week.

The ingredients for carnitas include pork shoulder, garlic, onions, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, and chili powder. You can also add bay leaves or oregano for extra flavor. The slow-cooking process allows the pork to soak up all the spices and citrus, making it incredibly juicy.

Brown the pork in a large pot, then add the garlic, onions, citrus juice, and spices. Cover and simmer for a few hours until the pork is tender and shreds easily. Use the meat in tacos, burritos, or serve with rice and beans.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.