As a busy individual, the last thing you want to do after a long day is spend hours in the kitchen preparing a meal. Thankfully, there are countless quick and easy one-pot meals that you can whip up on busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. From hearty pastas to flavorful rice dishes, here is a collection of recipes that will satisfy your hunger and simplify your cooking routine.

First on the list is a classic: spaghetti bolognese. This dish is a weeknight staple for good reason. Simply brown some ground beef or turkey, add your favorite jarred tomato sauce, and let it simmer while you boil pasta. Before draining the pasta, reserve some of the starchy cooking water – adding a splash to your sauce will help it cling to the spaghetti. Top with grated parmesan and fresh basil if you’re feeling fancy. It’s a straightforward dish that pleases palates of all ages.

For a taste of the Mediterranean, try a chicken and olive stew. Brown bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, removing them once golden. In the same pot, soften onions and garlic, then add spices like paprika and cumin. Return the chicken to the pot, add chicken stock and a handful of green and black olives, and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through. This flavorful stew is best served with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Take a trip to Thailand with a simple, satisfying dish: Thai coconut rice with vegetables. Sauté onions, garlic, and your choice of vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, and peas work well) in a pot. Once softened, add basmati rice, coconut milk, and vegetable stock, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the rice is tender. Serve this creamy, slightly sweet dish with a squeeze of lime for a well-rounded, flavorful meal.

Sometimes, nothing hits the spot like a good old-fashioned grilled cheese. To elevate this classic comfort food, try making a grilled cheese and tomato soup pot pie. Start by making a basic tomato soup from scratch or using canned soup. Layer in sliced, toasted bread, and grated cheese, covering the soup. As it cooks, the bread will absorb the soup, creating a delicious, savory pie.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. With a bit of creativity and some simple ingredients, you can create countless one-pot wonders that will make your weeknights a little less hectic and a lot more delicious. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up that single pot or pan, and get ready to enjoy some easy, flavorful meals.

Another family favorite is chicken Alfredo. This creamy, comforting dish is a breeze to make. Sauté chicken breasts or thighs in a pan, then set them aside to rest. In the same pan, melt butter, and add heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Throw in some grated garlic and your preferred Italian herbs, then stir through a generous amount of parmesan cheese. Toss your fettuccine and chicken in this rich sauce, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal in minutes.

For a hearty vegetarian option, look no further than a vegetable and bean chili. Chopped onions, peppers, and carrots form the base, sautéed in a large pot with chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Add canned diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and some vegetable stock, and let it bubble away. Serve with chopped avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkling of fresh cilantro for a warming, flavorful dinner.

If you’re a fan of seafood, try a shrimp and sausage gumbo. This Louisiana-inspired dish is a real crowd-pleaser. Start by making a dark, flavorful roux in your pot, then add the holy trinity of celery, bell peppers, and onions. Toss in sliced sausage and let it cook before adding shrimp and a handful of okra. This stew is best served over fluffy white rice, bringing a taste of New Orleans to your table.

For a lighter option, a lemon garlic salmon and veggies is a winning combination. In a baking dish, arrange salmon fillets, sliced potatoes, asparagus, or green beans, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Squeeze over the juice of a lemon and add a few lemon slices to the dish. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes at 400°F, and you’ll have a gorgeous, healthy meal with minimal effort and just one dish to clean.

When you’re short on time but craving Asian flavors, a beef and broccoli stir-fry is the answer. Marinate strips of beef in soy sauce, honey, and garlic, then stir-fry them in a wok or large pan. Once cooked, set the beef aside and toss in your broccoli florets, stirring until bright green. Return the beef to the wok, add a little beef stock and some hoisin sauce, and let it simmer. Serve over steamed rice for a takeout-style dinner that’s healthier and faster than delivery.

Lastly, a classic minestrone soup is a versatile and nourishing option. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in a large pot. Add canned diced tomatoes, white beans, and zucchini, then pour in vegetable or chicken stock. Bring to a boil and simmer until the veggies are tender. Before serving, throw in some small pasta shapes and a handful of spinach. This soup is an excellent way to use up any leftover vegetables, and it freezes beautifully, making future weeknights even easier.

With these recipes in your back pocket, you’re armed and ready to take on busy weeknights without sacrificing delicious, nutritious meals. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create some magical one-pot wonders. Bon appétit!