21 One-Pan Dinners That Make Cleanup Super Easy

In today’s fast-paced world, the last thing anyone wants to do after a long day is face a mountain of dirty dishes. That’s where the magic of one-pan dinners comes in. By cooking your entire meal in a single skillet, sheet pan, or Dutch oven, you not only save time on cleanup but also create incredibly flavorful dishes as the ingredients meld together. This article provides 21 delicious and diverse one-pan recipes that are perfect for any night of the week.

1. Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Veggies

This vibrant and healthy meal is a weeknight staple, combining tender chicken with a medley of colorful vegetables, all roasted to perfection on a single sheet pan.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli florets, bell pepper strips, zucchini slices, cherry tomatoes)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces and mixed vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
3. Spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender-crisp. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

2. One-Pan Sausage and Peppers

A classic combination that’s both hearty and flavorful, this dish comes together quickly with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, orange), seeded and sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine sausage pieces, bell peppers, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until sausage is cooked through and vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or over pasta.

3. Skillet Chicken Fajitas

Bring the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your table with these easy-to-make skillet fajitas. Quick to cook and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for a fun weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 3 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fajita seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Warm tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken strips and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned. Add bell peppers and onion to the skillet.
3. Sprinkle with fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook for another 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Serve immediately with warm tortillas and your favorite fajita toppings.

4. One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

This incredibly simple yet satisfying pasta dish cooks all in one pot, absorbing all the delicious flavors as it simmers.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti, broken in half
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
2. Stir in crushed tomatoes and broth. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the broken pasta to the pot, stirring to ensure it’s submerged. Cook, stirring frequently, for 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

5. Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken and Vegetables

This recipe features tender chicken and roasted vegetables coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, all cooked on a single sheet pan for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., Brussels sprouts, carrots, red onion, bell peppers), chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken and vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic glaze, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Stir halfway through.
5. Serve hot.

6. One-Pan Roasted Salmon and Asparagus

This elegant yet simple dish is perfect for a healthy and quick weeknight meal. Flaky salmon and tender-crisp asparagus are roasted together with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried dill
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place salmon fillets on one side of the baking sheet. Arrange asparagus spears on the other side.
3. Drizzle both salmon and asparagus with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with dill, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and asparagus is tender-crisp.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

7. Sheet Pan Shrimp Scampi

Enjoy the classic flavors of shrimp scampi with the convenience of a sheet pan. This dish is quick, garlicky, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 8-10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.

8. One-Pot Chicken and Rice

A comforting and complete meal cooked in a single pot, featuring tender chicken and fluffy rice infused with savory flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Add onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Stir in rinsed rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
4. Return chicken to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is cooked through and liquid is absorbed.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

9. Sheet Pan Steak and Veggies

This hearty and satisfying meal features tender steak and roasted vegetables, all cooked on a single sheet pan for a quick and easy dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp steak seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine steak, potatoes, broccoli, and bell pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and steak seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until steak is cooked to your desired doneness and vegetables are tender. Stir halfway through.
5. Serve hot.

10. One-Pot Lentil Soup

A comforting and nutritious vegetarian soup that’s incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor, all in one pot.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
3. Stir in rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
5. Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

11. Sheet Pan Chicken and Sweet Potatoes

A comforting and nutritious meal featuring tender chicken and sweet potatoes, seasoned with warm spices and roasted to perfection on a single sheet pan.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, sweet potatoes, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender. Stir halfway through.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

12. One-Pot Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy, this one-pot mac and cheese is a family favorite that comes together in minutes with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• 3 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine macaroni, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring frequently, for 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
4. Serve immediately.

13. Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli

A simple, healthy, and delicious meal that combines lean chicken breast with nutrient-rich broccoli, all roasted on one pan.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken and broccoli. Drizzle with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender-crisp. Stir halfway through.
5. Serve hot, with lemon wedges if desired.

14. One-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

This classic comfort food is made even easier by cooking everything in a single pot, perfect for a cozy and nourishing meal.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup egg noodles
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Stir in chicken broth and thyme. Bring to a boil.
4. Return chicken to the pot. Add egg noodles. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until noodles are cooked through and chicken is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

15. Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry

Enjoy the flavors of a classic stir-fry without the wok! This sheet pan version is packed with colorful vegetables and tender chicken, all coated in a savory sauce.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 cups mixed stir-fry vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, snap peas)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken and mixed vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey/maple syrup, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
4. Pour half of the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, tossing to coat.
5. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender-crisp. Stir halfway through.
7. Drizzle with remaining sauce, garnish with sesame seeds (if using), and serve immediately with cooked rice or noodles.

16. One-Pot Chili Mac

This hearty and comforting dish combines two family favorites – chili and macaroni and cheese – into one delicious and easy-to-clean-up meal.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add beef broth and elbow macaroni. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until macaroni is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot.

17. Sheet Pan Fish and Chips

Enjoy a healthier, oven-baked version of this classic British comfort food, all made on a single sheet pan.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs cod or haddock fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 large russet potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch thick fries
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges and tartar sauce for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss potato fries with 1 tbsp olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on one half of the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake for 15 minutes.
4. While potatoes are baking, pat fish fillets dry. Season with salt and pepper.
5. After 15 minutes, add fish fillets to the other half of the baking sheet. Continue baking for another 12-15 minutes, or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily, and fries are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.

18. One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This bright and flavorful pasta dish is incredibly quick to prepare and cooks entirely in one pot, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti, broken in half
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
2. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in broth and broken pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring frequently, for 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Return shrimp to the pot. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately.

19. Sheet Pan Chicken Nachos

Perfect for a quick and fun meal or appetizer, these loaded nachos are baked on a single sheet pan for easy assembly and cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1 bag (10-12 oz) tortilla chips
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/4 cup sliced pickled jalapeños (optional)
• Salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread half of the tortilla chips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Top with half of the chicken, cheeses, black beans, corn, and jalapeños (if using).
3. Repeat with the remaining chips and toppings.
4. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and chips are lightly golden.
5. Serve immediately with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.

20. One-Pot Chicken and Dumplings

This comforting and hearty classic is made easy in a single pot, perfect for a cozy family dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 (10.25 oz) can refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into quarters
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Stir in chicken broth, milk, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
4. Return chicken to the pot. Drop biscuit dough quarters into the simmering liquid. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

21. Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies

This versatile and flavorful dish combines your favorite sausage with a colorful array of vegetables, all roasted on a single sheet pan for a quick and easy meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb smoked sausage or pre-cooked chicken sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 4 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, cherry tomatoes), chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced sausage and chopped vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp and sausage is lightly browned. Stir halfway through.
5. Serve hot.