Busy nights call for quick and easy meals.

One-skillet recipes are perfect for those times when you want a tasty dinner without a lot of fuss. These dishes let you cook everything in a single pan, cutting down on cleanup and saving precious time.

You can make a wide variety of delicious one-skillet meals in 30 minutes or less.

From comforting classics like mac and cheese to healthier options with veggies and lean proteins, there’s something for everyone.

These recipes often use simple ingredients you may already have on hand, making them great for last-minute cooking.

1. Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Alfredo pasta is a tasty one-skillet meal you can make in about 30 minutes.

Start by cooking chicken pieces in a large skillet until they’re golden brown.

Next, add garlic and cook briefly.

Pour in chicken broth and scrape the pan to get all the flavorful bits.

Add uncooked pasta and let it simmer until tender.

For the creamy sauce, mix in butter, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.

You can add extras like spinach or broccoli for more flavor and nutrition.

This easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a filling meal without lots of cleanup.

2. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

You can make a tasty beef and broccoli stir-fry in just one skillet.

Start by cooking sliced beef in hot oil until it’s browned. Set the beef aside.

Next, stir-fry broccoli and onions in the same pan. Cook them until the broccoli is crisp-tender and the onions are soft.

Add the beef back to the skillet.

Pour in a sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Let it simmer and thicken for a few minutes.

Your beef and broccoli stir-fry is ready to serve. This quick meal takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish.

3. Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish you can easily make in one skillet.

Start by cooking the grits in a mixture of water and milk until they’re thick and creamy.

In the same pan, cook bacon until crispy. Remove it and set aside.

Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers in the bacon fat.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink.

Stir in some lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.

Combine the grits with the shrimp mixture in the skillet. Top with crumbled bacon and green onions. Your one-pan shrimp and grits is ready to serve!

4. One-Pot Jambalaya

You can make a delicious jambalaya in just one pot.

Start by cooking chicken and sausage in oil until browned. Remove the meat and set it aside.

Next, sauté onions, peppers, celery, and garlic in the same pot.

Add rice, broth, tomatoes, and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered until the rice is tender.

Stir the cooked meat back in near the end. If you’re using shrimp, add it during the last few minutes of cooking.

The result is a flavorful, hearty meal with minimal cleanup.

5. Spanish Rice with Chorizo

Spanish Rice with Chorizo is a tasty one-skillet meal you can make in about 30 minutes. It combines spicy chorizo sausage with rice, beans, and veggies for a flavorful dish.

To make it, you’ll need chorizo, rice, bell peppers, onions, and beans.

Add some broth, tomatoes, and spices like chili powder and cumin for extra flavor.

Cook the chorizo first, then add the other ingredients to the same skillet. Let everything simmer together until the rice is tender.

This meal is filling and budget-friendly. You can adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or hot chorizo.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and satisfying.

6. Cajun Chicken with Andouille

This tasty one-skillet meal combines spicy Cajun chicken with flavorful andouille sausage.

To start, season chicken breasts with Cajun spices and cook them in a hot skillet with oil.

Once browned, remove the chicken and add sliced andouille sausage to the pan. Cook until the sausage is crispy.

Next, toss in sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened.

Return the chicken to the skillet and add garlic for extra flavor.

You can also include pasta if you want a heartier meal. Simmer everything together in a creamy sauce made with butter and your choice of milk or cream.

This dish brings the bold flavors of Louisiana right to your dinner table. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights.

7. Lemon Herb Chicken Skillet

This tasty one-pan meal combines juicy chicken with zesty herbs and tender potatoes. You’ll love how simple it is to make.

Start by seasoning chicken thighs with herbs and lemon. Place them in a skillet with potato chunks.

Cook the chicken and potatoes on the stovetop for a few minutes. Then transfer the skillet to the oven.

Bake until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are soft. The total cooking time is about an hour.

For extra flavor, spoon some pan juices over the chicken before serving. You can also add lemon slices on top for a fresh touch.

8. Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Garlic butter steak bites are a quick and tasty one-skillet meal you can make in about 20 minutes.

Start by heating oil in a large skillet.

Cook the steak pieces until they’re browned on the edges. This takes 3-4 minutes.

Next, add butter and garlic to the pan. Let the garlic cook for a minute.

Then put the steak back in and stir to coat it with the garlic butter.

For extra flavor, try adding shallots, paprika, or even a splash of bourbon.

You can also include vegetables like green beans or potatoes to make it a complete meal.

9. Pesto Chicken and Veggies

Pesto chicken and veggies is a tasty one-skillet meal you can make in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and nutritious.

Start by cooking chicken pieces in a large skillet.

Add your favorite veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. Cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes work well too.

Stir in some pesto sauce to coat everything.

You can use store-bought or homemade pesto. The basil flavor pairs nicely with the chicken and vegetables.

For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

This dish is great on its own or over pasta or rice if you want to make it more filling.

10. Southwestern Quinoa Skillet

This tasty one-pan meal combines quinoa with Southwestern flavors. You’ll love the mix of protein-packed quinoa and beans with zesty spices.

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and peppers in a large skillet.

Add corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

Stir in uncooked quinoa, spices like cumin and chili powder, and broth or water.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and simmer until the quinoa is tender.

Top your skillet with cheese, avocado, or cilantro for added taste.

This quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious meal without much fuss.

11. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers make a tasty one-skillet meal.

Start by cooking ground beef with onions and garlic in a large skillet. Drain any excess fat.

Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and rice to the beef mixture. Stir in some water or broth.

Cut bell peppers into chunks and add them to the skillet.

Cover and simmer until the rice is tender and peppers are soft, about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally while cooking.

For extra flavor, top with shredded cheese before serving.

This skillet version is quicker than traditional stuffed peppers. You get all the same flavors without having to stuff and bake whole peppers.

12. Sausage and Peppers

Sausage and peppers is a classic one-skillet meal that’s quick and tasty.

Start by browning Italian sausage links in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Remove the sausage and add sliced bell peppers and onions to the pan. Cook until they start to soften, then add minced garlic.

Return the sausage to the skillet.

Pour in some canned tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Cover and simmer on low heat until the sausage is fully cooked.

Serve this hearty dish on its own or with rice or pasta.

You can customize it by using different types of sausage or adding extra veggies.

13. Greek Chicken and Orzo

Greek Chicken and Orzo is a tasty one-skillet meal that brings Mediterranean flavors to your table.

You’ll love how the chicken cooks with bell peppers and orzo pasta in the same pan.

The dish features tender, juicy chicken seasoned with oregano. It’s paired with creamy orzo that absorbs all the delicious flavors as it cooks.

To finish, you’ll top it with fresh cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese.

Some versions also include a dollop of tzatziki sauce for extra creaminess.

This meal is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s ready in under an hour and only uses one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

14. Tuscan White Bean Skillet

This quick and flavorful meal comes together in about 30 minutes.

You’ll need white beans, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and spinach as key ingredients.

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet. Add sliced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Toss in the cherry tomatoes and let them soften for a few minutes.

Next, add the white beans and spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts.

For extra flavor, include sun-dried tomatoes and shallots if you have them on hand.

Season with salt and red pepper flakes to taste.

This dish is both vegetarian and protein-rich, making it a great option for a satisfying meatless meal.

15. Teriyaki Chicken and Rice

Teriyaki chicken and rice is a tasty one-skillet meal you can make in no time.

You’ll need chicken, rice, vegetables, and teriyaki sauce.

Start by cooking the chicken in a large skillet.

Add veggies like broccoli and carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.

Pour in the rice, water, and teriyaki sauce. Let everything simmer together until the rice is fluffy and the chicken is cooked through.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s filling, delicious, and leaves you with minimal cleanup.

You can use store-bought teriyaki sauce or make your own for a homemade touch.

16. Mushroom and Spinach Pasta

This tasty one-skillet meal combines earthy mushrooms and nutritious spinach with pasta.

Start by sautéing sliced mushrooms in a large skillet until they’re golden brown.

Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Toss in uncooked pasta and broth, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is almost done.

Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt.

Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.

This quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss.

17. Zucchini Noodles with Turkey

Zucchini noodles with turkey is a tasty and healthy one-skillet meal.

You can make this dish in about 25 minutes.

Start by browning ground turkey in a large skillet.

Add salt, pepper, and spices like chili powder or oregano for flavor.

Next, spiralize zucchini to create noodles. Add them to the skillet with the cooked turkey.

Toss in some diced tomatoes and minced garlic for extra taste.

Cook everything together for a few minutes until the zucchini is tender but still crisp. You can add a splash of water if needed.

For a finishing touch, stir in some pesto or grated Parmesan cheese.

This quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights.

18. Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

This flavorful dish comes together quickly in one skillet.

Start by heating oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped garlic and chili peppers to the pan.

Once fragrant, toss in cubed chicken thighs. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink.

Stir in sugar, garlic salt, and pepper.

Pour in oyster sauce and add sliced mushrooms and onions.

Cook until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Finally, mix in fresh Thai basil leaves. The basil adds a burst of flavor and aroma.

Serve your spicy Thai basil chicken over steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

19. Creamy Tomato Basil Skillet

You’ll love this easy one-skillet meal.

Start by cooking chicken in a hot pan until browned. Set it aside and make a creamy sauce with tomatoes, basil, and garlic.

Pour the sauce into the skillet and add some spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts. Then return the chicken to the pan.

Let everything simmer together on low heat. The flavors will blend, creating a rich and tasty dish.

Serve it with pasta or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

This meal is quick to make and leaves you with minimal cleanup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without much fuss.

20. Kimchi Fried Rice

Kimchi fried rice is a tasty one-skillet meal you can make in about 25 minutes.

Start by heating oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions, minced garlic, and ginger, cooking until the onions become translucent.

Next, add chopped kimchi and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until it softens and deepens in color. This step helps develop rich flavors.

Toss in some diced carrots and mushrooms if you like.

Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir everything together.

Mix in soy sauce, kimchi juice, and gochujang for extra flavor.

Cook for a few more minutes until the rice is well-coated and heated through.

For a finishing touch, you can top your kimchi fried rice with a fried egg or some green onions.

This dish is filling, flavorful, and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.

21. Herb Butter Pan Salmon

Herb butter pan salmon is a tasty one-skillet meal you can make quickly.

Start by seasoning salmon fillets with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Place the salmon skin-side down in the hot pan. Cook for about 5 minutes until crispy.

Flip and cook for 2 more minutes.

While the salmon cooks, mix softened butter with garlic, dill, and lemon juice.

Add this herb butter to the pan and let it melt over the fish.

Serve your salmon right from the skillet. The herb butter creates a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender fish.

22. Breakfast Skillet Hash

A breakfast skillet hash is a tasty one-pan meal to start your day. You can make it with crispy hash browns as the base.

Add some cheese, eggs, and your favorite breakfast meats on top.

Mix thawed hash browns with eggs, salt, and pepper. Press this mixture into an oiled skillet.

Bake until golden brown. This creates a crispy crust for your hash.

For extra flavor, toss in some diced peppers and onions.

Cook bacon or sausage in the skillet first. Then add the other ingredients. This infuses everything with meaty goodness.

Top your hash with eggs cooked to your liking. Sprinkle cheese over everything and let it melt.

Serve hot right from the skillet for a satisfying breakfast.

23. Paella with Shrimp and Chorizo

Paella with shrimp and chorizo is a tasty one-skillet meal. You’ll need a large cast-iron skillet or paella pan for this dish.

Start by cooking chorizo until crispy. Set it aside and cook chicken in the same pan.

Next, sauté onions and garlic.

Add rice, tomatoes, and broth to the pan. Stir in some saffron for flavor and color.

Let the rice simmer until almost cooked.

Add shrimp and peas near the end of cooking. Return the chorizo to the pan.

Cook until the shrimp are pink and the rice has a crispy bottom layer.

This flavorful dish combines seafood, meat, and rice in one satisfying meal.

24. Honey Garlic Pork Chops

Honey garlic pork chops are a tasty one-skillet meal you can make quickly.

Start by seasoning pork chops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chops for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove the chops and set them aside.

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant.

Mix in honey, soy sauce, and vinegar to create a glaze. Let it simmer and thicken for a few minutes.

Return the pork chops to the skillet and coat them with the honey garlic sauce.

Serve hot with your favorite sides.

25. Moroccan Lamb Skillet

Moroccan lamb skillet is a tasty one-pot meal bursting with flavor. You’ll need ground lamb, onions, garlic, and a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.

Brown the lamb in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until soft.

Stir in your spices and let them bloom for a minute.

Toss in some raisins for sweetness and chickpeas for extra protein.

Pour in a bit of broth and let everything simmer until the flavors meld.

Serve your Moroccan lamb skillet over couscous or with warm pita bread.

Benefits of One Skillet Meals

One skillet meals offer big rewards for home cooks. You’ll save time and effort while still creating tasty, satisfying dishes for your family.

Efficiency in Cooking

One skillet meals let you cook faster and smarter. You’ll use fewer pots and pans, cutting down on prep work.

Everything cooks together in one pan, so flavors blend nicely. Proteins, veggies, and starches all simmer in the same skillet.

This method works well for busy weeknights. You can often make a complete meal in 30 minutes or less.

One-pan cooking also helps food stay warm. As each ingredient finishes, it sits in the hot skillet until serving time.

Try recipes like skillet beef and broccoli ramen or turkey asparagus stir-fry. These quick dishes pack in protein and veggies.

You’ll get a balanced meal without much fuss or planning.

Easy Cleanup

Cleaning up after cooking can be a chore. One skillet meals make this job much simpler.

You’ll only have one main pan to wash instead of several.

This means less time at the sink and more time enjoying your meal. Many skillets are non-stick, making them even easier to clean.

A quick wipe or rinse is often all you need.

You’ll save water too. Fewer dishes mean less water used for washing. This is good for both your wallet and the planet.

One-pan meals also create less mess while cooking. You won’t have to juggle multiple hot pots or transfer food between dishes.

This cuts down on spills and splatters in your kitchen.

Tips for Choosing Ingredients

Picking the right ingredients can make or break your one-skillet meal. Focus on items that cook well together and add variety to your dish.

Balancing Nutritional Value

Choose a mix of proteins, carbs, and veggies for a well-rounded meal.

Pick lean meats like chicken breast or fish for protein. Add whole grains or starchy veggies for carbs. Include colorful vegetables for vitamins and fiber.

Opt for ingredients with similar cooking times. This helps everything cook evenly.

If you use items with different cooking times, add them to the skillet in stages.

Try to use fresh ingredients when possible. They often taste better and have more nutrients. Frozen veggies can work too and are quick to use.

Maximizing Flavor with Herbs and Spices

Use herbs and spices to boost flavor without adding extra calories.

Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley can brighten up your dish.

Dried herbs work well too and last longer in your pantry.

Spices add depth to your meals.

Try garlic powder, paprika, or cumin for easy flavor boosts.

Start with small amounts and taste as you go.

You can always add more, but you can’t take it away.

Make your own spice blends to save money and control what goes in them.

Mix chili powder, cumin, and oregano for a quick taco seasoning.

Or blend garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs for an all-purpose mix.