Top 20+ lazy one-pan winter dinners that practically make themselves

What's better than that?

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

If you’re looking for low-effort dinners with minimal cleanup, then one-pan dinners are for you. This collection of recipes is perfect for those chilly winter weeknights when you need something comforting but don’t want to spend a ton of time cleaning up after. We’ve got hearty Unstuffed Peppers, comforting Mini Meatloaves roasted alongside potatoes and broccoli, and a decadent One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka where the pasta doesn’t need to be boiled separately. These are the best types of recipes to keep in your back pocket to help you get a low-stress dinner on the table in no time.

01 of 20

Chicken Marengo

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“Chicken Marengo brings together French and Italian flavors in a comforting one-pot meal. And, you can personalize the recipe with capers, olives, citrus zest, or extra herbs for a twist.” —Coco Morante, Recipe Developer

02 of 20

Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“Customize the sausage: Kielbasa is a convenient weeknight staple because it's already cooked, flavorful, and readily available. But this recipe is incredibly flexible. I've made it with great success with chorizo and turkey sausage, as well.” —Kris Osborne, Recipe Developer

03 of 20

Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“If you're adding feta, skip the crumbled kind. It’s dry, overly salty, and lacks flavor. It's not worth it just to save a few minutes of prep. Whole-block feta, ideally made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk and packed in brine, gives you a much better flavor and texture.” —Theodora Kaloudis, Recipe Developer

04 of 20

One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“This recipe is a new staple in my home, everyone loves it, and we modified it to include sausage for protein while it cooks, so there isn’t a delay in the eating. Everything about this recipe is easy, and we love it in my house!” —Jinny B, Reader

05 of 20

One-Pot Spiced Lentils

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“I added onion and garlic as suggested in comments and garnished with parsley. YUMMY!! This will definitely be a regular dish at our house from now on.” —Traci A, Reader

06 of 20

One-Pot Taco Pasta

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“Anything made in one pot is a winner for me. Very delicious and fast. The right amount of spicy, I was glad I omitted the hot sauce. Not a huge fan of overly spicy food, but if you want a spicier kick, don't skip the sauce. Will definitely make it again but will add a bit more cheese—just because we're crazy about cheesy food :)” —Mihaela S, Reader

07 of 20

One Pot Chicken and Orzo

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“It's a winner! And the best part? Aside from it being absolutely can't-stop-eating-delicious is that it's really easy to make, all in one large skillet. You can do most of the prep while the chicken is browning, so the whole shebang takes maybe 35 minutes.” —Elise Bauer, Founder

08 of 20

One-Pot Chicken and Rice

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“Made this tonight, it was fantastic! I added some cheddar cheese on top and French’s crispy fried onions, and it was a perfect comfort food!” —Jolene, Reader

09 of 20

One-Pot Sausage and Orzo

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“I saw this recipe just by chance, and it intrigued me. So I made it for dinner. Needless to say, it was such a hit that I ended up making it for dinner the next night. This is awesome.” —Heather, Reader

10 of 20

One-Pan Tortellini Bake

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“The beauty of this pasta bake is that you can tweak it to suit your mood—whether you're craving more veggies, want to mix up the flavors, or feel like adding a little heat. The bubbling cheese and saucy pasta combo is always a winner. And everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!” —Kris Osborne, Recipe Developer

11 of 20

Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“If I’m in a hurry, I limit the marinating window to the time it takes for the oven to preheat and the squash slices to par-bake (about 30 minutes).” —Ivy Manning, Recipe Developer

12 of 20

Sheet Pan Fried Rice

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“You can cook the rice up to two days ahead or use 3 cups of leftover cooked rice. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.” — Robin Asbell, Recipe Developer

13 of 20

Easy Chicken Fricassee

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“Instead of or in addition to the heavy cream, add 1 or 2 rounded tablespoons of sour cream to add more body, creaminess, and a bit of tang to the gravy.” —Devan Grimsrud, Recipe Developer

14 of 20

Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“There are near endless options to enjoy this recipe. On multiple occasions, I’ve simply carried the sheet pan to the dinner table, along with crusty Italian bread or pillowy focaccia and a simple green salad. We each scooped up what we liked and swiped the pan juices with the bread.” —Sheela Prakash, Recipe Developer

15 of 20

Chicken Vesuvio

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“For those of you who prefer to cook without wine, a nonalcoholic wine or low-sodium chicken broth is a fine substitute. You may need to add a splash more lemon juice to make up for the acidity from the wine, so taste and adjust until it suits you!” —Liz Tarpy, Recipe Developer

16 of 20

Unstuffed Peppers

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“You can use any color of bell peppers to make unstuffed peppers, and it’s fun to use a mix for a colorful dish. For a bit of peppery warmth, add a poblano to the mix, or amp things up with a diced jalapeño. Crushed red pepper flakes add a nice dose of heat, as does hot sauce.” —Laurel Randolph, Associate Editorial Director

17 of 20

Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“It’s delicious! I make it two or three times a month. It's easy peasy. Everything on one pan! Just the bowl that you season potatoes and chicken with and the pan to wash. I'm making it again tonight! YUM!” —Judy D, Reader

18 of 20

One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“This is the best one-pot mac and cheese I've ever had! Others have really lacked flavor, but this really hits the spot!” —Ciara K, Reader

19 of 20

Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“The beauty of this dish is that it’s the whole meal. You’ve got protein, starch, and some fresh produce all cooking on the same sheet pan and coated in a garlicky, sweet sauce. If you wanted to prepare a simple salad to go alongside, I’m certainly not going to stop you—but it is not required.” —Sara Tane, Recipe Developer

20 of 20

Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

Chicken Marengo, Sheet Pan Pierogi With Sausage, Sheet Pan Biftekia with Lemony Potato Wedges, One-Pan Baked Penne alla Vodka, One-Pot Spiced Lentils, One-Pot Taco Pasta, One Pot Chicken and Orzo, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, One-Pot Sausage and Orzo, One-Pan Tortellini Bake, Maple Glazed Chicken and Squash, Sheet Pan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fricassee, Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, Chicken Vesuvio, Unstuffed Peppers, Sheet Pan Chicken and Broccoli, One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Honey Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Apples, and Shallots, Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves with Crispy Broccoli and Mustard Glazed Potatoes

“I believe your hands are the best tool you have for making meatloaf. I’ve learned from overworking meatloaf in the past that using a light touch helps the meatloaf stay light and moist instead of compact and tough.” —Sharon Lehman, Recipe Developer

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