37 One-Pot Recipes That Do the Cooking and Cleaning for You : At the Immigrant's Table

When dinner feels like a chore, one-pot recipes come to the rescue. These dishes simplify cooking and cleanup by keeping everything in a single pan, pot, or slow cooker. Whether it’s soups, casseroles, or hearty mains, they pack flavor into every meal without the hassle of multiple dishes. With these 37 recipes, dinner is easier and quicker, leaving you more time to relax.

A bowl of chicken wild rice soup. — Chicken Wild Rice Soup. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Vegetarian Ukrainian Borscht

Two bowls of beet soup on a wooden table. — Vegetarian Ukrainian Borscht. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Thick with vegetables like beets, carrots, and potatoes, this Ukrainian borscht is cooked entirely in one pot. The balance of tart and sweet flavors makes it a standout option for a wholesome and nourishing meal. Its simplicity aligns perfectly with the theme of reducing cleanup without compromising on taste. This vibrant soup is a colorful addition to any one-pot recipe collection.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Ukrainian Borscht

Ajiaco

Ajiaco is a traditional Colombian chicken and potato soup that combines a variety of potatoes, chicken, and corn in one pot. The addition of unique herbs enhances the flavor, making it a standout dish for your one-pot repertoire. Its all-in-one preparation keeps the process simple while delivering bold, comforting flavors. This hearty meal is a great choice for cozy evenings with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Ajiaco

Middle Eastern Spiced Cauliflower Soup

A bowl of soup is sitting on a wooden tray. — Middle Eastern Spiced Cauliflower Soup. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This cauliflower soup is infused with Middle Eastern spices, caramelized onions, and sweet golden raisins for a warm and complex flavor. Made entirely in one pot, it’s a seamless recipe that saves time and effort. The comforting combination of spices and creamy texture makes it a standout choice for those seeking bold flavors. This recipe is proof that one-pot meals can be both creative and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Spiced Cauliflower Soup

Easy Moussaka Recipe

Close-up of a baked casserole dish featuring layers of cheese with crispy golden edges, topped with fresh green herbs. — Easy Moussaka Recipe. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This simplified moussaka recipe layers eggplant and lentils in a single dish, combining them with a flavorful sauce. Its one-pot preparation minimizes cleanup while delivering a hearty and satisfying dinner option. The baked layers meld together perfectly, creating a dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to serve. It’s a modern take on a classic dish, made convenient for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Easy Moussaka Recipe

Moroccan Carrot Soup with Chermoula

Two bowls of soup on a table. — Moroccan Carrot Soup with Chermoula. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Sweet carrots and spicy chermoula come together in this Moroccan-inspired soup that’s as rich in flavor as it is easy to make. The entire recipe is cooked in one pot, blending garlic, cilantro, and spices into a smooth and aromatic dish. Perfect for a quick and mess-free dinner, it’s a great way to incorporate global flavors into your routine. This soup brings both warmth and simplicity to your table.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Carrot Soup with Chermoula

Chicken Sancocho

This Colombian chicken sancocho is a hearty stew made with yucca, plantains, potatoes, and corn, all cooked in one pot. The one-pot preparation lets the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the process simple. Its comforting and starchy nature makes it a filling meal with minimal effort. This stew is a delicious way to explore one-pot cooking with a global twist.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sancocho

Classic Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe

This classic chicken soup is made in one pot, with chicken, vegetables, and herbs simmered to create a rich, nourishing broth. The simple preparation keeps things stress-free while delivering maximum flavor. Perfect for family meals or cozy evenings, it’s a timeless example of one-pot efficiency. This recipe shows how tradition and convenience can go hand in hand.
Get the Recipe: Classic Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe

Instant Pot Fish Soup

A blue bowl contains a soup with chunks of fish, carrots, and potatoes, garnished with fresh dill. The soup appears to have a clear broth base. — Instant Pot Fish Soup. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This fish soup combines tender fish, potatoes, and tomatoes in a rich broth, all made in the Instant Pot. The quick and easy preparation means you can have a nourishing meal on the table with minimal effort. Its hearty ingredients and one-pot method make it perfect for cozy evenings. This soup shows how modern tools can make one-pot cooking even more convenient.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Fish Soup

Slow Cooker Kabocha Squash Soup

A bowl of creamy orange soup is placed on a black plate, garnished with a swirl of cream and a sprig of herb. A spoon rests inside the bowl. Small sprigs of thyme are scattered on the marble surface nearby. — Slow Cooker Kabocha Squash Soup. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This kabocha squash soup combines creamy texture and sweet, earthy flavors in one pot. Using the slow cooker makes it an easy, hands-off recipe that’s perfect for cozy meals. The one-pot method lets the flavors meld beautifully while saving time on cleanup. This soup is an excellent way to showcase the simplicity of slow-cooked meals.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Kabocha Squash Soup

Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara

A bowl of penne pasta topped with shredded meat and garnished with fresh basil leaves. A fork is placed in the bowl. Red tomatoes and additional fresh basil leaves are on the marble surface nearby. — Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This chicken marinara is a one-pot slow cooker recipe that delivers tender chicken in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for busy evenings, it allows you to prepare dinner with minimal effort and cleanup. Serve it with pasta or over rice for a complete meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying. This slow-cooked dish highlights the convenience of one-pot meals at their best.
Get the Recipe: Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara

One-Pot Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes Casserole

A platter of roasted chicken garnished with fresh parsley, accompanied by sautéed mushrooms and potato slices, with a spoon next to the dish. A bowl of creamy white sauce is visible in the background. — One-Pot Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes Casserole. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This casserole brings together tender chicken thighs marinated in buttermilk and garlic with crispy roasted potatoes in a single dish. The one-pot preparation means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want a flavorful and filling dinner without extra hassle. This recipe proves that hearty meals can be easy to make and even easier to clean up.
Get the Recipe: One-Pot Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes Casserole

Chicken Hash Brown Casserole

A dish in a black baking pan filled with baked casserole. The top is golden brown with crispy edges and garnished with sliced green onions. A portion has been removed, revealing a creamy interior. — Chicken Hash Brown Casserole. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This one-pot casserole brings together tender chicken, crispy hash browns, and cheese for a meal that’s both hearty and easy to prepare. Everything bakes together in one dish, simplifying both cooking and cleanup. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a family-friendly choice for weeknight dinners. This casserole proves that one-pot meals can be both comforting and efficient.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hash Brown Casserole

Authentic Rice and Lentil

A white dish filled with cooked lentils and rice, topped with chopped cilantro and caramelized onions. A wooden spoon rests on a patterned napkin next to the dish. — Authentic Rice and Lentil. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This rice and lentil dish combines earthy lentils with fluffy rice and caramelized onions in one pot. The simple ingredients cook together, creating a satisfying and mess-free meal or side dish. Its hearty and wholesome nature makes it a great option for a quick yet comforting dinner. This recipe shows how one-pot meals can be both practical and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Rice and Lentil

Belgian Endive Soup

Two bowls of soup on a wooden table. — Belgian Endive Soup. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Belgian endive soup highlights the humble yet bold flavors of endive, cooked into a creamy and aromatic dish. This one-pot recipe keeps preparation simple, letting the flavors shine through without extra mess. With its comforting texture and straightforward method, it’s a great choice for light yet satisfying meals. This dish proves that even the simplest ingredients can create something remarkable in just one pot.
Get the Recipe: Belgian Endive Soup

Barley, Kale, and Romano Beans Soup

A bowl of barley soup with lemon wedges on a wooden table. — Barley, Kale, and Romano Beans Soup. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This nourishing soup features barley, kale, and Romano beans cooked together in a single pot. A hint of lemon and chipotle powder adds a bright and slightly spicy kick, making it both hearty and refreshing. The one-pot approach simplifies preparation, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while reducing cleanup. Perfect for chilly nights, this soup is a testament to the convenience of one-pot cooking.
Get the Recipe: Barley, Kale, and Romano Beans Soup

Creamy Broccoli Stems Soup

A bowl of soup on a wooden cutting board. — Creamy Broccoli Stems Soup. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Broccoli stems are transformed into a creamy and rich soup with the help of coconut milk, all cooked in a single pot. The quick preparation makes it a practical option for busy days, and the salad topper adds a delightful crunch. This recipe shows how to make the most of every ingredient while keeping the cleanup minimal. It’s a resourceful and flavorful way to embrace one-pot cooking.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Broccoli Stems Soup

Butternut Squash Soup with Apple and Coconut Milk

A bowl of creamy orange soup garnished with herbs, chopped nuts, and drizzled cream sits on a marble surface. A small bowl of nuts and sprigs of fresh herbs are nearby, alongside a gray napkin. — Butternut Squash Soup with Apple and Coconut Milk. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

This creamy soup combines the sweetness of butternut squash and apples with the richness of coconut milk, all in one pot. The recipe’s simplicity makes it a great choice for quick weeknight dinners or prepping ahead for lunches. Cooking everything together allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish. This soup is a perfect example of how one-pot meals can balance ease and taste effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Soup with Apple and Coconut Milk

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Chicken plov on a plate with a fork. — Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This casserole combines chicken, rice, and spices in one pot for a comforting and flavorful dinner. Inspired by Uzbek plov, it features ingredients like carrots, onions, and barberries that cook together seamlessly. The one-pot method simplifies preparation and cleanup, making it a practical choice for weeknights. This dish offers a perfect balance of hearty and easy-to-make.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Creamy, Vegan Jerusalem Artichoke Soup with Apples

A bowl of soup with apples and sprigs of thyme. — Creamy, Vegan Jerusalem Artichoke Soup with Apples. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Jerusalem artichokes and tart apples come together in this creamy soup that’s cooked slowly in one pot. The earthy flavors of the artichokes blend seamlessly with the sweetness of apples and aromatic herbs. Its one-pot preparation makes it a simple yet impressive option for any meal. This soup is perfect for enjoying rich flavors without adding extra dishes to the sink.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Vegan Jerusalem Artichoke Soup with Apples

Mujadara for One

Two mujaddara for one mugs. — Mujadara for One. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This single-serving mujadara combines rice, lentils, and caramelized onions with Middle Eastern spices in a single mug-sized pot. Its compact preparation ensures minimal cleanup while delivering a hearty and balanced meal. Perfect for a solo lunch or quick dinner, it captures the essence of one-pot convenience. This dish proves that even individual meals can be both easy and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara for One

Easy Slow Cooker Butternut Squash

A dish filled with mashed sweet potatoes topped with chopped nuts, a pat of butter, and a sprig of thyme. The dish is placed on a wooden board, with a few thyme sprigs scattered around. — Easy Slow Cooker Butternut Squash. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Butternut squash becomes tender and flavorful in this slow cooker recipe that keeps things simple and mess-free. The one-pot method allows the natural sweetness of the squash to shine through, making it a versatile side dish or light meal. With minimal preparation required, it’s a perfect option for busy days. This recipe demonstrates how slow cookers are the ultimate tool for one-pot cooking.
Get the Recipe: Easy Slow Cooker Butternut Squash

Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers

A plate of chicken stir-fry with sliced carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms, garnished with cilantro and almond slices. A fork rests on the plate, and a yellow cloth is visible in the background. — Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This Instant Pot recipe combines chicken and peppers in a savory sauce for a one-pot meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. The ingredients cook together, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish without the hassle of multiple pans. It’s a great choice for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet hearty. This recipe highlights how one-pot meals save time and effort without compromising on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers

Creamy Vegan Pasta Bake

A bowl of pasta salad featuring mushrooms, asparagus, and a creamy green sauce. The dish is garnished with fresh herbs. A small bowl of nuts and some greenery are in the blurred background. — Creamy Vegan Pasta Bake. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This pasta bake features a rich green goddess sauce and hearty vegetables, all cooked together in a single dish. Its one-pot preparation makes it a practical option for weeknight dinners or family meals. The creamy texture and vibrant flavors come together effortlessly, making cleanup a breeze. This dish shows how one-pot recipes can combine convenience and comfort seamlessly.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Pasta Bake

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Hands holding paprika chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan. — Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Paprika-seasoned chicken and roasted vegetables come together on a single sheet pan for an easy, no-fuss dinner. The one-pan preparation keeps cleanup minimal while delivering a wholesome, balanced meal. The flavors meld beautifully as everything cooks together, creating a dish that’s as convenient as it is flavorful. This recipe simplifies dinner without sacrificing quality or taste.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Roasted chicken and seasonal vegetables come together in one pan for a wholesome and balanced dinner. The simplicity of this recipe lies in its all-in-one preparation, making both cooking and cleanup effortless. The natural flavors of garlic and herbs infuse the dish, creating a meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful. This recipe shows how one-pan meals can bring convenience to your table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Chicken Corn Chowder

Two bowls of chicken chowder with potatoes and corn. — Chicken Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This chicken corn chowder brings together chicken, corn, and potatoes in a creamy broth, all prepared in a single pot. The simplicity of the one-pot method makes it a convenient option for busy nights. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a comforting meal that doesn’t require much effort. This chowder is a satisfying way to enjoy one-pot cooking without the mess.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Chowder

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

This one-pan meal combines tender pork with bell peppers and a garlic-pepper seasoning for a quick, flavorful dinner. Everything cooks together in about 30 minutes, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. The one-pot preparation simplifies the process and minimizes dishes, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal. It’s a hearty and colorful dish that highlights the ease of one-pot cooking.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

Brisket Chili

Brisket chili combines tender brisket, beans, and vegetables in a thick, flavorful tomato base, all cooked in one pot. The slow simmer allows the flavors to deepen while keeping preparation straightforward. Perfect for cozy evenings, this hearty chili is easy to make and clean up. This dish showcases how one-pot meals can be both practical and deeply satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Chili

Shrimp and Corn Bisque

This shrimp and corn bisque is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s cooked entirely in one pot. The ingredients blend perfectly, creating a rich and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Its one-pot preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. This recipe highlights how one-pot meals can bring restaurant-worthy flavors to your home.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Minestrone Soup with Sausage

This Italian-inspired minestrone soup is a hearty combination of sausage, vegetables, and beans, all cooked in one pot. The one-pot preparation saves time while delivering bold, satisfying flavors. Perfect for meal prepping or weeknight dinners, it’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to your preferences. This soup proves that one-pot recipes can bring big flavors with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

Easy Creamy Taco Soup

Creamy Keto Taco Soup with gresh avocado slices and lime. — Easy Creamy Taco Soup. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

This taco soup combines beans, tomatoes, and a creamy base with Mexican-inspired spices, all cooked in one pot. The one-pot method ensures a quick and hassle-free meal that’s ready in no time. Its bold flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite for family dinners. This recipe proves that one-pot meals can be both fun and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Easy Creamy Taco Soup

Easy Beef Stew

Beef stew in yellow bowls. — Easy Beef Stew. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This beef stew combines tender beef, root vegetables, and herbs in a single pot for a hearty meal. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Perfect for cold evenings, it’s a comforting option with minimal cleanup. This classic stew is a timeless example of how one-pot meals can simplify your life.
Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stew

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

This creamy chicken pot pie soup transforms the flavors of a classic pot pie into an easy one-pot recipe. Tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich broth come together seamlessly, making it a comforting and practical choice for dinner. The one-pot method keeps preparation simple and cleanup minimal. This soup is a great way to enjoy comfort food without the extra steps.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

This one-pot casserole brings the flavors of stuffed bell peppers into an easy, no-stuffing-required recipe. The ingredients cook together in a single dish, making preparation and cleanup a breeze. It’s a hearty and flavorful option for family dinners or meal prepping. This casserole highlights how one-pot meals can simplify traditional recipes.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Cabbage beef casserole inside cast iron. — Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

This casserole layers cabbage, ground beef, and cheese in one pot for a simple and comforting meal. The ingredients cook together seamlessly, reducing both preparation and cleanup time. It’s a hearty option for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers. This dish is a perfect example of how one-pot meals can make busy nights easier.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

A bowl of chicken and spinach soup with a spoon. — Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy chicken gnocchi soup brings together tender gnocchi, chicken, and vegetables in one pot. The rich broth ties everything together, making it a comforting meal with minimal cleanup. Its simplicity makes it perfect for weeknights or meal prepping. This recipe shows how one-pot soups can be both convenient and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Chicken Wild Rice Soup

This creamy soup features tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together in one pot. The rich flavors come together effortlessly, making it a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Its one-pot design ensures minimal cleanup, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. This recipe highlights how simplicity and comfort go hand in hand with one-pot cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Wild Rice Soup