One Pot Meals

One Pot Meals

One pot meals are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. They are simple, quick to prepare, and require minimal cleanup. With just one pot, you can make a delicious meal that feeds the whole family. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, rice, or chili, there are many one pot recipes to satisfy your cravings. In this article, we will explore three tasty one pot meals: One Pot Spaghetti, One Pot Chicken and Rice, and One Pot Chili Mac.

Why Make This Recipe

Making one pot meals is a great way to save time and effort in the kitchen. They allow you to combine ingredients and cook them all together, which not only cuts back on dishwashing but also enhances the flavors. You get all the delicious juices and seasonings in every bite. Plus, they are perfect for those who want a home-cooked meal without spending an entire evening in the kitchen.

How to Make One Pot Meals

Ingredients

• 4 1/2 cups chicken stock
• 12 oz linguine
• 1 small onion, sliced thin
• 12.5 oz fire roasted tomatoes
• 1/2 cup fresh basil
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced thin
• Lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tbsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 2 large carrots
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 lb chicken breast
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 cup white wine
• 5 cups hot chicken broth
• 2 cup rice
• 1/4 cup Italian parsley
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 20 oz chunky Rotel
• 15.5 ounces chili beans
• 3 1/2 cups water
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 8 oz box Velveeta
• 1 cup fiesta blend cheese
• Chopped parsley

Directions

1. For One Pot Spaghetti: In a large pot, combine chicken stock, linguine, sliced onion, fire roasted tomatoes, basil, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a boil and cook until the pasta is tender. Before serving, stir in the Parmesan cheese.

2. For One Pot Chicken and Rice: Heat olive oil and butter in a pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are translucent. Add sliced carrots, salt, pepper, and chicken breast, cooking until the chicken is browned. Pour in white wine, hot chicken broth, and rice. Cover the pot and simmer until the rice is cooked and the chicken is done. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese.

3. For One Pot Chili Mac: First, brown ground beef in a pot. Once browned, add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft. Stir in chili powder, Rotel, chili beans, and water. Bring to a boil. Then add elbow macaroni and cook until tender. Stir in Velveeta and fiesta blend cheese until everything is melted and well combined. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve One Pot Meals

Serve your one pot meals hot right from the pot. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional cheese on top for extra flavor. Pair them with a side salad or some crusty bread to enjoy a complete meal.

How to Store One Pot Meals

To store your one pot meals, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make One Pot Meals

• Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and measure your ingredients ahead of time to make cooking easier.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality meats will enhance the flavors of your dish.
• Stir Occasionally: While cooking, stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning during cooking to suit your preferences.

Variation

Feel free to customize these recipes based on what you have on hand. You can substitute different proteins, such as shrimp or sausage, and add assorted vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

Q: Can I make these meals vegetarian?
A: Yes! You can substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock, and use beans or tofu instead of meat.

Q: How can I add more flavor to my one pot meals?
A: Adding spices, herbs, and a dash of hot sauce can boost the flavor. Experiment with different seasonings to find what you like best.

Q: Can I cook these meals in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, most of these recipes can be adapted for slow cooking. Just add ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

With these simple one pot meals, you’ll have delicious, hassle-free dinners that the whole family will love! Enjoy cooking and happy eating!