10 Delicious One-Pot Dinner Recipes

Looking for hassle-free dinner solutions that won’t compromise on flavor? Look no further than these 10 mouthwatering one-pot dinner recipes! From comforting stews to savory pastas, these dishes are designed to simplify your cooking process without sacrificing taste. With just one pot to clean up afterward, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy a satisfying meal with your loved ones.

Let’s dive into these delightful recipes!

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Risotto

This creamy chicken and mushroom risotto is pure comfort in a bowl. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich Parmesan creates a dish that feels luxurious but is surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home, whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests!

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups arborio rice
4 cups chicken broth (warm)
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work great)
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
½ cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or deep pan over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Remove from the pot and set aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil and butter. Sauté the onions until soft and translucent, then add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Toast the Rice

Stir in the arborio rice and cook for 1−2 minutes, letting it absorb the flavors. If using white wine, pour it in now and let it simmer until mostly evaporated.

4. Simmer the Risotto

Begin adding the warm chicken broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Allow each addition to be mostly absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process for about 15−20 minutes, until the rice is tender and creamy.

5. Add the Mushrooms and Cream

Stir in the sliced mushrooms and let them cook until softened. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot, followed by the heavy cream and Parmesan. Stir well and let everything heat through for another 2−3 minutes.

6. Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let the risotto sit for a minute before serving.

How to Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle with a little truffle oil before serving.

Enjoy your creamy, dreamy risotto!

Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry

This quick and easy beef and vegetable stir-fry is perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy, seared beef, crisp-tender veggies, and a savory sauce come together in just one pan for a satisfying, flavorful meal. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete dinner that tastes just like takeout—only better!

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas
1 small carrot, julienned
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

For the Sauce:

3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for a sweeter touch)
1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
¼ cup water or beef broth

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, cornstarch, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, and water. Set aside.

2. Sear the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over high heat. Add the sliced beef and cook for about 2 minutes, until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, and carrot. Stir-fry for 3−4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.

4. Combine Everything

Return the beef to the pan, pour in the sauce, and toss everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients.

5. Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat.

How to Serve

Serve hot over steamed white or brown rice, or toss with cooked noodles for a heartier meal. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor.

Enjoy this quick and delicious stir-fry that’s bursting with flavor!

One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese

Nothing beats a classic spaghetti Bolognese—especially when it’s made in just one pot! This version keeps all the rich, hearty flavors of traditional Bolognese but simplifies the process for an easy, fuss-free meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want a cozy, comforting dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
2 ½ cups water or beef broth
12 oz (340g) spaghetti (uncooked)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Cook the Aromatics

Add diced onions and garlic to the beef. Sauté for 2−3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

3. Build the Sauce

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to develop the flavors.

4. Cook the Pasta

Add spaghetti directly into the pot, along with water or beef broth. Stir well and let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened (about 12−15 minutes).

5. Finish with Cheese

Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute.

How to Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy your effortless, one-pot spaghetti Bolognese!

Vegetable and Chickpea Curry

This one-pot vegetable and chickpea curry is packed with bold spices, creamy coconut milk, and hearty chickpeas. It’s the perfect cozy meal for when you’re craving something warm, flavorful, and nourishing. Plus, it’s completely vegan and comes together in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

1 tbsp coconut oil or olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, sliced
1 zucchini, diced (or any vegetable of choice)
1 can (14 oz / 400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz / 400ml) coconut milk
1 can (14 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes
1 tsp curry powder
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
½ cup vegetable broth or water
Juice of ½ lemon or lime
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft, about 2−3 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

2. Cook the Vegetables

Add the bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini. Sauté for 3−4 minutes until slightly tender.

3. Add Spices & Simmer

Stir in curry powder, turmeric, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices.

4. Add Liquids & Chickpeas

Pour in diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir well, then add the chickpeas. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 10−15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Finish with Citrus

Stir in lemon or lime juice for a fresh, bright touch. Adjust seasoning to taste.

How to Serve

Serve hot over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro and, if desired, a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess.

Enjoy your fragrant, comforting vegetable and chickpea curry!

One-Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

This bright and zesty one-pot lemon herb chicken and rice is a complete meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors. Juicy, golden-brown chicken thighs are nestled into fragrant, herbed rice, all cooked together for maximum flavor. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner—easy, comforting, and made in just one pot!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Rice:

1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati)
2 cups chicken broth
Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra slices for garnish)
1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp butter
Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Place chicken skin-side down and sear for 3−4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 2−3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Toast the Rice

Add the rice to the pot and stir for 1−2 minutes to coat it in the flavors.

4. Simmer Everything Together

Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pot, skin-side up. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

5. Let It Rest

Once the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

How to Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley or dill, and serve with lemon slices for extra brightness. Pair with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Sausage and Potato Casserole

This hearty and comforting one-pot sausage and potato casserole is the perfect meal for cozy evenings. Juicy, flavorful sausage pairs beautifully with tender potatoes in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor—just the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again!

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) smoked sausage (or your favorite sausage), sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium potatoes, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth)
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the potatoes in the seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, until the potatoes start to soften.

4. Add the Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Return the browned sausage to the pot. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let it cook for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is thick and creamy.

5. Let It Rest

Remove from heat and let the casserole sit for a couple of minutes to thicken before serving.

How to Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For extra indulgence, top with crispy bacon bits or an extra sprinkle of cheese before serving.

Enjoy this rich and satisfying sausage and potato casserole!

One-Pot Beef Chili

This hearty and flavorful one-pot beef chili is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights. It’s rich, smoky, and packed with protein from ground beef and beans. Plus, it comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a meal that’s as customizable as it is delicious!

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes
1 can (14 oz / 400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz / 400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 ½ cups beef broth (or water)
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Build the Chili Base

Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

4. Add the Beans & Simmer

Pour in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for 20−25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the chili is too thick, add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.

How to Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, or crushed tortilla chips. Serve with cornbread or warm tortillas for a complete meal.

Enjoy your rich and satisfying one-pot beef chili!

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This rich and indulgent one-pot creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is a restaurant-quality meal made easy! Juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach are combined with a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce for a dish that’s both elegant and comforting. The best part? It all cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 3 small ones), sliced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta & Sauce:

2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
8 oz (225g) penne or fettuccine pasta
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of spice)
2 cups fresh spinach
1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear for 3−4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Melt butter in the same pot. Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Cook the Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, then add the uncooked pasta. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 12−15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

4. Finish the Sauce

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and fresh spinach. Let the spinach wilt for 1−2 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream.

5. Add the Chicken

Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pot. Stir everything together, adding a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

How to Serve

Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a perfect meal.

Enjoy your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta—pure comfort in a bowl!

Lentil and Vegetable Stew

This hearty and nourishing one-pot lentil and vegetable stew is packed with wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for chilly days. Plus, it’s completely vegan and comes together with minimal effort—just let everything simmer and enjoy!

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 zucchini, diced (or any vegetable of choice)
1 cup dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed
1 can (14 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 bay leaf
2 cups chopped spinach or kale
Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

2. Add the Lentils & Spices

Stir in the lentils, cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

3. Simmer the Stew

Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 25−30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender.

4. Add Greens & Finish

Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it wilt for 2 minutes. Remove the bay leaf, squeeze in the lemon juice, and adjust seasoning if needed.

How to Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side of rice for a complete, satisfying meal.

Enjoy this comforting and nutritious lentil and vegetable stew!

One-Pot Garlic Herb Shrimp and Orzo

This one-pot garlic herb shrimp and orzo is a quick and elegant meal packed with Mediterranean flavors. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, then tossed with tender orzo, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon for a light yet satisfying dish. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a special dinner!

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Juice of ½ lemon

For the Orzo:

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
Extra lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Sauté the Shrimp

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add shrimp, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2−3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Squeeze in the lemon juice, toss, then remove from the pot and set aside.

2. Cook the Orzo

In the same pot, melt the remaining butter. Stir in orzo and toast for 1−2 minutes until lightly golden. Add cherry tomatoes, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the broth, stir, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

3. Combine & Finish

Return the shrimp to the pot and stir in Parmesan cheese. Let everything cook together for 1−2 more minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley or basil.

How to Serve

Serve hot with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. Pair with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy this fresh, flavorful one-pot garlic herb shrimp and orzo!

Looking for More Recipes?

With these 10 delicious one-pot dinner recipes, making flavorful, satisfying meals has never been easier. Whether you’re in the mood for creamy pasta, hearty stews, or bold international flavors, there’s a dish here for every craving. Less cleanup, more flavor, and maximum comfort —what's not to love?