15 Easy One-Pan Meal Prep Recipes for Quick Dinners

If you’re short on time but still want to whip up tasty meals, you’re in the right place! These one-pan quick meal prep recipes make cooking a breeze, allowing you to save both time and effort while still enjoying delicious home-cooked dishes. So grab your favorite pan and get ready to simplify your dinner routine!

One-Pan Beef and Broccoli

One-pan meals are a lifesaver for busy days, and this beef and broccoli dish is no exception. The image shows tender pieces of beef mixed with vibrant green broccoli, all ready to be cooked together. This meal is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients.

To make this dish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The combination of beef and broccoli creates a satisfying meal that can be served over rice or noodles. Plus, cleaning up is a breeze since everything is cooked in one pan!

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing everything well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles, and enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The vibrant colors of the shrimp and asparagus make this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. The bright yellow lemon slices add a refreshing touch, while the garlic brings in that savory flavor we all love.

Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup, which is always a win. The shrimp cook quickly, soaking up all the lemon and garlic goodness, while the asparagus stays crisp and tender. It’s a simple, healthy meal that feels fancy without requiring much effort.

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 for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large baking sheet, arrange the asparagus and shrimp in a single layer.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle the minced garlic, salt, and pepper over the top.
4. Add lemon slices on top of the shrimp and asparagus.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Baked Ziti with Spinach and Ricotta

Baked Ziti with Spinach and Ricotta is a delightful dish that combines comfort and nutrition. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant colors of the spinach and the gooey cheese create an inviting look that makes your mouth water.

The ziti pasta is cooked al dente and then mixed with a rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and fresh spinach. Topped with mozzarella, it bakes to perfection, creating a bubbly, golden crust. This dish not only saves time but also packs a punch of flavor and nutrients.

Gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a meal that your family will love. It’s simple, satisfying, and a great way to sneak in some greens!

Ingredients

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and spinach. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Ziti with Spinach and Ricotta!

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad in a Skillet

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a colorful and nutritious dish that comes together quickly in one skillet. Packed with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, it’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing, and the flavors are refreshing and satisfying.

The base of this salad is quinoa, a protein-rich grain that cooks up fluffy and delicious. Tossed with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice, it brings everything together beautifully. This dish is not just easy to make; it’s also a great way to use up any leftover veggies you have in your fridge.

To make this salad, simply cook the quinoa according to package instructions. While it’s cooking, chop your vegetables and prepare your dressing. Once the quinoa is ready, mix everything in the skillet, and you’re set! Serve it warm or chilled, and enjoy the burst of Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
2. While the quinoa cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, and red onion.
3. In a large skillet, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped vegetables, and parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. Enjoy your Mediterranean Quinoa Salad!

Sausage and Potato Hash

Sausage and potato hash is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings comfort to any meal. The image shows perfectly browned sausages nestled among golden, crispy potatoes, garnished with fresh parsley. This one-pan meal is not only quick to prepare but also packs a punch of flavor.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. The combination of juicy sausages and tender potatoes creates a hearty meal that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices or vegetables.

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to whip up this delicious sausage and potato hash.

Ingredients

• 4 sausages (your choice of flavor)
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and tender.
3. Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet and add the sausages. Cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Mix the sausages with the potatoes, ensuring everything is well combined. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Teriyaki Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry

This Teriyaki Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a colorful and healthy dish that’s quick to prepare. The vibrant mix of red, yellow, and green vegetables paired with tofu creates a delightful meal. The tofu is perfectly cubed and sautéed until golden, soaking up the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. The fresh vegetables add crunch and nutrition, making this dish not only tasty but also satisfying.

Cooking in one pan means less cleanup, and you can have dinner on the table in no time. This recipe is great for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Just chop your veggies, toss everything in a pan, and let the flavors meld together. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Pour in the teriyaki sauce and toss everything together to coat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired and serve over rice or noodles.

Cilantro Lime Chicken with Rice

Cilantro Lime Chicken with Rice is a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy days. The image shows tender chicken pieces coated in a zesty cilantro lime sauce, served over fluffy white rice. Fresh lime wedges and vibrant cilantro leaves add a pop of color and flavor, making this dish not just delicious but also visually appealing.

This recipe is all about simplicity and speed. You can whip it up in just one pan, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. The bright flavors of lime and cilantro really shine through, making each bite refreshing and satisfying.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just looking for a quick dinner idea, this dish fits the bill. It’s healthy, filling, and can easily be customized with your favorite veggies or spices.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• Extra lime wedges and cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
2. Add Flavor: Once the chicken is cooked, add minced garlic, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro to the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken in the sauce.
3. Serve: Remove from heat and slice the chicken. Serve it over a bed of cooked white rice, garnished with extra lime wedges and cilantro.

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

Sheet pan chicken fajitas are a quick and tasty meal that everyone will love. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with colorful bell peppers and onions, all seasoned perfectly for a burst of flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—everything cooks together on one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

The vibrant colors of the peppers and the golden-brown chicken create an inviting look. You can see the juicy chicken nestled among the veggies, ready to be served. This meal is not just easy to prepare; it’s also packed with nutrients and can be customized to fit your taste.

To make this dish, you’ll need some basic ingredients and a little bit of time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Just chop, season, and roast!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, bell peppers, onion, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well coated.
3. Spread the mixture evenly on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with tortillas or over rice for a complete meal.

Chickpea Curry with Spinach

Chickpea curry with spinach is a delightful dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. The vibrant colors of the chickpeas and fresh spinach create an inviting look, making it perfect for a quick meal prep. This one-pan recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor.

The chickpeas provide a hearty base, while the spinach adds a fresh touch. The creamy texture, enhanced by a dollop of yogurt, makes each bite comforting. Serve it with warm naan or rice for a complete meal.

Here’s how to whip up this delicious chickpea curry:

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Naan or rice for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in minced garlic, curry powder, and cumin. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add chickpeas and coconut milk to the pan. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Fold in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a side of naan or rice.

Vegetable Fried Rice in a Wok

Vegetable fried rice is a classic dish that’s perfect for a quick meal prep. Using a wok makes the cooking process fast and efficient. The vibrant colors of the veggies, like red bell peppers and green onions, make this dish not only tasty but also visually appealing. You can whip this up in no time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

This recipe is versatile too! Feel free to mix in any leftover vegetables you have on hand. The key is to use day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky, while cold rice separates nicely when frying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
4. Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Finally, toss in the chopped green onions and stir for another minute before serving.

Honey Garlic Salmon with Broccoli

Honey Garlic Salmon with Broccoli is a quick and tasty meal that packs a punch in flavor while being super easy to prepare. The image shows a beautiful salmon fillet drizzled with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, surrounded by vibrant green broccoli. This dish is not only visually appealing but also nutritious, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

To make this dish, you’ll need fresh salmon, broccoli, honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a few spices. The combination of honey and garlic creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Pairing it with broccoli adds a healthy crunch and a pop of color.

This one-pan meal is all about convenience. You can roast the salmon and broccoli together, saving time on both cooking and cleanup. It’s a great way to enjoy a wholesome dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange the broccoli around the salmon.
4. Drizzle the honey garlic mixture over the salmon and broccoli.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired, and serve hot.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

These spicy shrimp tacos are a quick and tasty option for meal prep. The vibrant colors of the shrimp and cabbage slaw make them visually appealing and perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors is refreshing, with a nice crunch from the slaw and a kick from the shrimp.

To make these tacos, you’ll need some simple ingredients. The shrimp are seasoned to perfection, and the cabbage slaw adds a nice texture. Plus, they come together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Serve these tacos with lime wedges for an extra zing. They’re great for lunch or dinner and can be easily customized with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Season the shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through.
3. Prepare the slaw: In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cabbage with chopped cilantro. Squeeze some lime juice over the slaw for added flavor.
4. Assemble the tacos: Warm the tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. Fill each tortilla with shrimp and top with cabbage slaw.
5. Serve: Garnish with lime wedges and enjoy your spicy shrimp tacos!

Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes is a quick and delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors in a simple way. The vibrant green pesto sauce coats the pasta beautifully, while the juicy cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, as it comes together in just one pan.

Start by cooking your favorite pasta until al dente. In the same pan, toss in some fresh basil pesto, which you can either make from scratch or buy pre-made. Add halved cherry tomatoes and stir everything together until well combined. The heat from the pasta will warm the tomatoes just enough to enhance their flavor.

This dish not only looks appealing but also tastes fantastic. The combination of the creamy pesto and the fresh tomatoes creates a comforting yet refreshing meal. Serve it warm, or let it cool for a tasty pasta salad later!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the same pot, add olive oil and the cooked pasta. Stir in the pesto and cherry tomatoes. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy your delicious pesto pasta!

One-Pan Moroccan Chicken with Couscous

This One-Pan Moroccan Chicken with Couscous is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and fluffy couscous, all infused with vibrant spices. The image showcases beautifully cooked chicken pieces, glistening with a rich sauce, resting on a bed of fluffy couscous. Fresh herbs add a pop of color, making it not just a meal but a feast for the eyes.

Cooking in one pan means less cleanup, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of spices like cumin and paprika gives the chicken a warm, aromatic flavor, while the couscous absorbs all the delicious juices. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 1 cup couscous
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the couscous, cover the pan, and remove it from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the couscous to absorb the liquid.
5. Fluff the couscous with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

One-Pan Ratatouille

One-Pan Ratatouille is a colorful and healthy dish that brings together a medley of fresh vegetables. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. The vibrant reds, greens, and yellows of bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant create a feast for the eyes. It’s perfect for meal prep, as it can be made in one pan, saving you time on cleanup.

To make this dish, you’ll need some basic ingredients. Start with zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. These vegetables are the stars of the show. You can also add garlic and herbs for extra flavor. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. Just chop, toss, and roast!

This ratatouille is versatile. Serve it as a side dish, toss it with pasta, or enjoy it on its own. It’s a great way to use up any veggies you have on hand. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 medium eggplant, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, diced eggplant, and chopped bell peppers.
3. Add minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the veggies are well coated.
4. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet.
5. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.