Our break from the hustle and bustle of school and sports is almost over, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get prepared now for an easier transition! Busy families know that weeknight dinners can often feel like a race against the clock. Between work, sports practices, homework, and everything else on your plate, finding time to cook a wholesome meal can seem impossible. That’s where one-pan meals come to the rescue! These dishes are not only quick and easy to prepare but also minimize cleanup—a win-win for any parent.
Here are three delicious one-pan meals your family will love, along with some time-saving tips to make your weeknights a breeze.
1. Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs and Veggies
This dish is a lifesaver on those hectic nights when you need something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply season bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss your favorite veggies—like baby carrots, Brussels sprouts, and red potatoes—in the same seasoning mix, and spread everything out on a lined sheet pan. Roast at 400°F for about 35-40 minutes, and dinner is served!
Pro Tip: Change up the flavors by using different seasonings. Add taco seasoning for a Mexican-inspired dinner or soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for an Asian twist. The same base recipe, completely different meals!
2. Sausage and Peppers with Rice
For a family-friendly meal packed with flavor, try this classic combination. Slice sweet or spicy Italian sausage, bell peppers, and onions, and arrange them on a sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of oregano. Roast at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, then serve over cooked rice. You can also toss in cherry tomatoes for added sweetness.
Pro Tip: Cook the rice ahead of time and store it in an air tight ziploc bag in the freezer for up to a week. Reheat it while the sausage and peppers are roasting to save time.
3. Sheet Pan Lemon pepper Garlic Salmon with Broccoli
When you’re craving something light yet flavorful, this sheet pan salmon dish is a perfect choice. Marinate salmon fillets in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, black pepper, minced garlic, and a touch of honey. Place them on a lined sheet pan with broccoli florets tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until the salmon is flaky and the broccoli is tender. This may seem like an odd one to recommend to families but the lemon pepper and garlic tend to help hide some of the “fishy” taste kids can complain about.
Pro Tip: Add a side of pasta or rice for a complete meal. Both can be cooked ahead of time for easy reheating.
Time-Saving Tips for One-Pan Meals
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Spend a few minutes on the weekend chopping veggies and portioning out proteins. Store everything in airtight containers, so all you need to do is assemble and cook during the week.
- Line Your Sheet Pans: Always line your pans with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This simple step makes cleanup a breeze and saves precious time—no scrubbing required!
- Mix and Match Flavors: Use the same base ingredients in multiple ways to keep meals exciting. For instance, roasted chicken and veggies can be transformed into stir fry, fajitas, or even a warm salad simply by changing up the spices and sauces.
Take the Stress Out of Dinner Planning
If you love these quick and easy ideas, my meal prep ebook is exactly what you need! Packed with 60 pages of tips, templates, and recipes, it’s your ultimate guide to streamlining weekly dinners. From grocery shopping hacks to step-by-step meal prep guides, this resource will save you time and energy while keeping your family well-fed and happy.