21 Cheap and Healthy Sheet Pan Meals
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding the time and energy to cook a healthy and delicious meal can be a challenge. Enter the sheet pan dinner: a revolutionary approach to cooking that is as simple as it is satisfying. By combining your protein, vegetables, and even your starch on a single pan, you can create a complete, balanced meal with minimal effort and cleanup. This collection of 21 cheap and healthy sheet pan meals is designed to provide you with a wealth of inspiration for easy weeknight dinners that are both nutritious and budget-friendly.
1. Lemon Herb Chicken and Asparagus
A classic combination that is both elegant and easy, this lemon herb chicken and asparagus is a perfect weeknight staple. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs pair beautifully with tender chicken and crisp-tender asparagus.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken breasts and asparagus with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the chicken and asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Top with lemon slices.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
2. Roasted Sausage, Peppers, and Onions
This hearty and flavorful meal is a nod to the classic Italian-American street food. The sweetness of the roasted peppers and onions complements the savory sausage for a truly satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot)
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the sausage, bell peppers, and onion with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Honey-Glazed Salmon with Broccoli
A perfect balance of sweet and savory, this honey-glazed salmon is a quick and healthy option for any night of the week. The broccoli becomes tender with slightly crispy edges, making it a delicious accompaniment.
Ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic.
- Place the salmon fillets and broccoli florets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the honey glaze over the salmon and toss the broccoli with any remaining glaze.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
4. Sheet Pan Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This vegetarian sheet pan meal is a healthy and flavorful alternative to takeout. The tofu gets crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside, and the vegetables are cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the tofu, broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot with soy sauce, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, and ginger.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the tofu is golden and the vegetables are tender.
5. Chicken Sausage with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Apples
The combination of savory chicken sausage, earthy Brussels sprouts, and sweet apples creates a delightful fall-inspired meal. This is a simple and satisfying dinner that is perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pre-cooked chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 apple, cored and chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken sausage, Brussels sprouts, and apple with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized.
6. Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini and Tomatoes
This light and fresh sheet pan meal is perfect for a summer evening. The combination of garlic shrimp, tender zucchini, and juicy cherry tomatoes is a true delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the shrimp, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through.
7. Sheet Pan Fajitas
Enjoy all the flavors of your favorite Mexican restaurant dish with the ease of a sheet pan meal. These chicken fajitas are perfect for a fun and festive weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers (different colors), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 packet fajita seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Flour or corn tortillas, for serving
- Your favorite fajita toppings (salsa, sour cream, guacamole, cheese)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken, bell peppers, and onion with fajita seasoning and olive oil.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.
8. Roasted Pork Chops with Sweet Potatoes and Broccoli
This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for a chilly evening. The pork chops become tender and juicy, while the sweet potatoes and broccoli provide a healthy and flavorful side.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potatoes and broccoli with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 15 minutes.
- While the vegetables are roasting, season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
- After 15 minutes, add the pork chops to the baking sheet with the vegetables.
- Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
9. Mediterranean Cod with Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this light and flavorful cod dish. The combination of tomatoes, olives, and feta creates a delicious and healthy topping for the flaky cod.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes and olives with olive oil and oregano.
- Spoon the tomato and olive mixture over the cod fillets.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese before serving.
10. Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Roasted Vegetables
Yes, you can cook gnocchi on a sheet pan! This recipe creates a delightful texture contrast with crispy-edged gnocchi and tender roasted vegetables. It’s a vegetarian meal that is both comforting and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 (16-ounce) package shelf-stable gnocchi
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the gnocchi, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the gnocchi is slightly crispy and the vegetables are tender.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
11. BBQ Chicken with Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salsa
This vibrant and flavorful sheet pan meal is a healthy take on BBQ chicken. The sweet potato and black bean salsa adds a delicious and nutritious element to the dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, toss the chicken breasts with BBQ sauce.
- In another bowl, toss the sweet potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the chicken and sweet potatoes on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
- While the chicken and sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the salsa. In a bowl, combine the black beans, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve the BBQ chicken with the sweet potatoes and black bean salsa.
12. Lemon Dill Salmon with Potatoes and Green Beans
This simple and elegant meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The lemon and dill add a fresh and vibrant flavor to the salmon, while the potatoes and green beans make it a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 1 lb green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes and green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
- While the vegetables are roasting, season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and fresh dill.
- After 15 minutes, add the salmon to the baking sheet with the vegetables.
- Top each salmon fillet with a slice of lemon.
- Bake for another 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
13. Sheet Pan Kielbasa with Cabbage and Potatoes
This rustic and hearty meal is a simple and budget-friendly option for a weeknight dinner. The combination of kielbasa, cabbage, and potatoes is a classic for a reason!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb potatoes, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the kielbasa, cabbage, and potatoes with olive oil, caraway seeds (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are tender and the cabbage is slightly caramelized.
14. Curried Chickpeas and Cauliflower
This vegetarian sheet pan meal is packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of curry-roasted chickpeas and cauliflower is a delicious and satisfying option for a meatless meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for serving
- Yogurt or tahini sauce, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the chickpeas, cauliflower, and red onion with olive oil, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and the chickpeas are slightly crispy.
- Serve with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of yogurt or tahini sauce.
15. Sheet Pan Steak and Veggies
Enjoy a steakhouse-style meal at home with this easy sheet pan recipe. The steak cooks to perfection alongside tender-crisp broccoli and bell peppers.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the broccoli and bell pepper with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes.
- While the vegetables are roasting, toss the steak with the remaining olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- After 10 minutes, add the steak to the baking sheet with the vegetables.
- Bake for another 5-7 minutes for medium-rare steak, or until cooked to your desired doneness.
16. Pesto Chicken and Veggies
This vibrant and flavorful meal is a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients. The pesto adds a burst of flavor to the chicken and vegetables, making it a delicious and healthy dinner option.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1/4 cup prepared pesto
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini with pesto and olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
17. Honey Mustard Chicken and Veggies
A classic flavor combination that never disappoints. The sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce is the perfect complement to the savory chicken and roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 1 lb green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken, potatoes, and green beans with the honey mustard sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
18. Sheet Pan Nachos
Nachos on a sheet pan? Absolutely! This is a fun and easy way to make a big batch of nachos for a crowd, or for a fun family dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag of tortilla chips
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken or ground beef (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Your favorite nacho toppings (jalapeños, olives, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream, salsa, guacamole)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the tortilla chips in an even layer on a large baking sheet.
- Top with black beans, chicken or beef (if using), and cheese.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and top with your favorite nacho toppings.
19. Sheet Pan Breakfast
Start your day with a hearty and satisfying breakfast that is all made on one pan. This is a great option for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 lb bacon or sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 lb baby potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss the potatoes, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, make 6 wells in the vegetable mixture and crack an egg into each well.
- Sprinkle with cooked bacon or sausage.
- Bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
20. Roasted Root Vegetables with Herbs
This simple and rustic dish is a celebration of the natural sweetness of root vegetables. The herbs add a fragrant and flavorful touch to this healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 lb parsnips, peeled and chopped
- 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
21. Spicy Shrimp with Green Beans and Potatoes
This zesty and flavorful meal is a perfect weeknight dinner. The spicy shrimp pairs beautifully with the tender green beans and potatoes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb green beans, trimmed
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the green beans and potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
- While the vegetables are roasting, toss the shrimp with the remaining olive oil, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- After 15 minutes, add the shrimp to the baking sheet with the vegetables.
- Bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Conclusion
Sheet pan meals are a game-changer for busy individuals and families who want to enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals without the stress and mess. With a little creativity and a well-stocked pantry, you can create an endless variety of delicious and budget-friendly dinners. So, the next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, grab a sheet pan and let your oven do the work! You’ll be amazed at the incredible meals you can create with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
