13 Easy One-Pot Recipes for Healthy Meal Prep and Minimal Cleanup

One-pot recipes are the ultimate solution for easy and healthy meal prep, combining simplicity with deliciousness while minimizing cleanup. This collection focuses on meals you can whip up in a single pot, making busy weeknights a breeze. Say goodbye to kitchen chaos, and hello to tasty, nutritious dishes that don't require endless dishwashing!

Savory One-Pot Chicken And Rice For Effortless Meals

One-pot meals are a lifesaver for busy days, and this savory chicken and rice dish is no exception. Imagine tender chicken pieces simmered with fluffy rice, all infused with rich spices and colorful veggies. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up and fills you up without a lot of fuss.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You can throw everything into one pot, let it cook, and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal cleanup. The vibrant yellow rice, thanks to turmeric, pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken and fresh herbs. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

Ready to make this easy meal? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Chicken: In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the rice, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
4. Combine Everything: Pour in the chicken broth and add the mixed vegetables. Place the browned chicken on top.
5. Cook: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
6. Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy your one-pot meal!

Creamy One-Pot Pasta With Spinach And Tomatoes

This creamy one-pot pasta dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The vibrant red cherry tomatoes pop against the rich, creamy sauce, while fresh spinach adds a lovely green touch. It's not just visually appealing; it’s also a breeze to make and clean up afterward!

Cooking everything in one pot means less hassle and more time to enjoy your meal. The pasta absorbs all the flavors from the tomatoes and spinach, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to whip up this delicious meal!

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spinach: Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add the spinach and stir until wilted.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add the reserved pasta water. Stir well, then mix in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your creamy one-pot pasta!

Hearty One-Pot Veggie Chili For A Cozy Night In

Nothing says comfort like a warm bowl of veggie chili. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in, bringing together a colorful mix of beans, corn, and peppers. The vibrant colors in the bowl make it visually appealing, while the rich flavors warm you from the inside out.

Pairing this chili with some cornbread adds a delightful touch. The soft, buttery cornbread complements the spicy chili perfectly. You can see the cornbread in the background, ready to be served alongside the chili. A dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro on top of the chili adds a nice finishing touch, making it even more inviting.

This one-pot recipe not only saves time on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can easily be made in large batches for meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers are tender.
3. Add the kidney beans, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the chili is thickened and flavors are combined, remove from heat. Serve hot, topped with sour cream and fresh cilantro.

Flavorful One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp And Asparagus

This one-pot lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus dish is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The vibrant colors of the shrimp and asparagus pop against the backdrop of a simple, savory sauce. The bright lemon slices add a refreshing touch, making this meal not just tasty but visually appealing too.

Cooking shrimp and asparagus together means they soak up all the delicious flavors from the garlic and lemon. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthy.

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to whip up this delicious dish!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the asparagus and lemon slices. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
4. Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together. Cook for another minute to heat through.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Simple One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken With Olives

This Simple One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken with Olives is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and easy preparation. The image showcases tender chicken thighs nestled among colorful cherry tomatoes and olives, all cooked together in a rustic cast-iron skillet. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add a lovely aroma, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.

Using just one pot means less cleanup, which is always a win! The combination of juicy chicken, tangy olives, and sweet tomatoes creates a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious. Serve it with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the flavorful juices.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup mixed olives (black and green)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (rosemary and thyme), for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Place the chicken skin-side down in the skillet and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip the chicken and add the sliced onion and minced garlic.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes and olives to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Delicious One-Pot Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a classic dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. This one-pot version makes it even easier to prepare, cutting down on cleanup time. The rich, creamy sauce pairs perfectly with tender beef and wide noodles, creating a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.

In the image, you can see a beautiful cast-iron pot filled with golden egg noodles topped with succulent pieces of beef, all coated in a luscious sauce. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing. A glass of red wine and slices of crusty bread nearby suggest a cozy, inviting meal.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. With just one pot to clean, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of doing dishes afterward. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup sour cream
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Cook Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions and mushrooms. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a boil.
4. Add Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until noodles are cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.
5. Finish with Cream: Remove from heat and stir in sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Satisfying One-Pot Taco Pasta Bake

This One-Pot Taco Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta. Imagine a creamy, cheesy pasta dish packed with seasoned ground meat, tomatoes, and topped with crispy tortilla chips. It’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

The image showcases a golden-brown pasta bake, bubbling with melted cheese and garnished with fresh cilantro. Surrounding the dish are vibrant ingredients like ripe tomatoes, green peppers, and red onions, all ready to enhance the flavor. The crunchy tortilla chips on the side add a fun texture and are perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness.

This recipe is not only easy to make but also requires minimal cleanup. Everything cooks in one pot, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups pasta (like penne or rotini)
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Cilantro for garnish
• Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes and taco seasoning. Mix well.
3. Add the pasta and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
4. Sprinkle the cheese on top and cover the pot to let it melt for a few minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with tortilla chips on the side.

Classic One-Pot Ratatouille For Summer Freshness

Ratatouille is a classic dish that captures the essence of summer. This vibrant one-pot meal showcases fresh vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes. The colors and textures create a feast for the eyes and the palate. It’s not just delicious; it’s also healthy and easy to prepare.

The beauty of ratatouille is in its simplicity. You can use whatever vegetables are in season, making it a flexible recipe. The dish is layered with flavors from fresh herbs like basil and thyme, giving it a fragrant touch. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant, sliced
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 3 ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
3. Layer the sliced eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell pepper in a baking dish, alternating the vegetables.
4. Pour the sautéed onion and garlic over the layered vegetables. Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Comforting One-Pot Mushroom Risotto

This one-pot mushroom risotto is a cozy dish that warms the soul. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a perfect comfort food. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal cleanup!

The image shows a beautiful pot of risotto, topped with sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs. A sprinkle of cheese adds a nice finishing touch. The wooden spoon and bowl of rice hint at the simple ingredients that come together to create this delightful meal.

Cooking risotto may seem intimidating, but it’s quite straightforward. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to achieve that creamy consistency without constant stirring. Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup mushrooms sliced (such as cremini or button)
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish optional

Instructions

1. Heat the Broth: In a saucepan, warm the broth over low heat to keep it hot while you cook the risotto.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they are tender and browned (about 5-6 minutes).
4. Add the Rice: Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent.
5. Add Broth Gradually: Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente (about 18-20 minutes).
6. Finish with Cheese: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Spoon the risotto into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Zesty One-Pot Greek Orzo With Feta

This Zesty One-Pot Greek Orzo with Feta is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. The vibrant colors of cherry tomatoes, black olives, and fresh herbs make it not only tasty but also visually appealing. The addition of feta cheese adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the zesty lemon and herbs.

Making this dish is a breeze. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare everything in one pot, which means less cleanup for you! It’s a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you have healthy meals ready to go throughout the week.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast for 2-3 minutes until slightly golden.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes, black olives, and dried oregano. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and fold in the feta cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with lemon slices and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!

Warm And Spicy One-Pot Jambalaya

Warm and spicy one-pot jambalaya is a fantastic dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This dish is a classic, combining shrimp, sausage, and colorful veggies all in one pot. The smoky aroma fills your kitchen as it cooks, making it hard to resist.

The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this dish visually appealing. You can see the shrimp glistening, the sausage slices adding depth, and the bright bell peppers and green peas bringing freshness. It’s not just a meal; it’s a feast for the senses!

One of the best parts about jambalaya is how easy it is to prepare. You can throw everything into one pot, let it simmer, and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned.
3. Stir in the rice and cook for a couple of minutes until it’s slightly toasted.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is cooked.
6. Stir in the shrimp and peas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your warm and spicy jambalaya!

Delightful One-Pot Vegetable And Barley Soup

This one-pot vegetable and barley soup is a warm hug in a bowl. Packed with colorful veggies and hearty barley, it’s perfect for meal prep. The vibrant mix of carrots, bell peppers, and greens makes it not just nutritious but also visually appealing. You can see the fresh ingredients swimming in a savory broth, inviting you to dig in.

The best part? It’s all made in one pot, which means less cleanup for you! This soup is not only easy to prepare but also versatile. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or grains. It’s a great way to use up what you have in your fridge.

Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal. This soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick, healthy option. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are softened (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the diced zucchini, bell pepper, rinsed barley, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and basil. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
6. Serve hot, and store leftovers in the refrigerator for easy meal prep.

Tasty One-Pot Baked Ziti With Cheese

Baked ziti is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for meal prep. This one-pot recipe makes it easy to whip up a delicious dish with minimal cleanup. The image shows a bubbling tray of baked ziti, topped with melted cheese and herbs, ready to serve. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up and satisfies your cravings.

To make this tasty dish, you’ll need ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and some Italian herbs. The beauty of this recipe is that everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot. Once it’s al dente, mix in the marinara sauce and ricotta cheese. Layer the mixture in a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until golden and bubbly. Serve it with garlic bread for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
3. Add marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious one-pot baked ziti!