19 One-Pot Dinners That Are Perfect for a Snowy Evening

When the snow is falling and the wind is howling, there’s nothing better than a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to make and even easier to clean up. That’s where one-pot dinners come in. These recipes are designed to be cooked in a single pot or pan, which means you can spend less time washing dishes and more time cozied up on the couch. From hearty stews to creamy pastas, these 19 one-pot dinners are perfect for a snowy evening.

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1. Cozy Chicken and Dumplings

A classic comfort food that’s like a warm hug in a bowl. This recipe simplifies the traditional version by using store-bought biscuit dough for the dumplings, saving you time and effort without sacrificing flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, 1 cup chopped carrots, 1 cup chopped celery, 1 medium onion, chopped, 6 cups chicken broth, 1 tsp dried thyme, Salt and pepper to taste, 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned.
    2. Add carrots, celery, and onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
    3. Pour in chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
    4. Separate biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. Drop the dough pieces into the simmering broth.
    5. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.

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2. Hearty Beef Stew

There’s nothing quite like a rich, savory beef stew to warm you up on a cold winter’s night. This recipe is packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth that will have you coming back for seconds.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 2 hours | Servings: 6-8
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 large onion, chopped, 2 carrots, chopped, 2 celery stalks, chopped, 4 cups beef broth, 1 cup dry red wine, 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried thyme, 2 bay leaves, 1 lb baby potatoes, halved, Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions:
    1. Toss the beef with flour, salt, and pepper.
    2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches and set aside.
    3. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened.
    4. Stir in the tomato paste, then deglaze the pot with red wine.
    5. Return the beef to the pot, then add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves.
    6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat, cover, and cook for 1.5 hours.
    7. Add the potatoes and cook for another 30 minutes, or until the beef and potatoes are tender.

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3. Spicy Black Bean Chili

This vegetarian chili is so hearty and flavorful, you won’t even miss the meat. It’s packed with black beans, corn, and a blend of spices that will warm you up from the inside out.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 red bell pepper, chopped, 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained, 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, Salt and pepper to taste. Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook until softened.
    2. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, chili powder, and cumin.
    3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with your favorite toppings.

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4. Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

This isn’t your average tomato soup. It’s a rich, creamy version that’s made even better with the addition of crispy, cheesy grilled cheese croutons.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: For the soup: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 cup heavy cream, Salt and pepper to taste. For the croutons: 4 slices of bread, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tbsp butter.
  • Instructions:
    1. For the soup, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
    2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
    3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
    4. For the croutons, make two grilled cheese sandwiches with the bread, cheese, and butter.
    5. Cut the grilled cheese sandwiches into 1-inch cubes.
    6. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the grilled cheese croutons.

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5. One-Pot Sausage and White Bean Cassoulet

A simplified version of the classic French dish, this one-pot cassoulet is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. It’s the perfect meal for a cold winter night.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained, 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 tsp dried thyme, Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
    2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
    3. Stir in the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme.
    4. Return the sausage to the pot, bring to a simmer, and cook for 30 minutes.
    5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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6. Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

A comforting and classic casserole that’s made in one pot for easy cleanup. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy rice make this a family-friendly favorite.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces, 1 cup long-grain white rice, 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup, 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup milk, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions:
    1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken, rice, condensed soups, and milk.
    3. Season with salt and pepper and stir to combine.
    4. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
    5. Uncover, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the cheese is bubbly.

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7. One-Pot Mushroom Risotto

This creamy and decadent mushroom risotto is made in one pot, so there’s no need for constant stirring. It’s a sophisticated yet simple meal that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil, 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced, 1 shallot, minced, 1.5 cups Arborio rice, 1/2 cup dry white wine, 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp butter, Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
    2. Add the shallot to the pot and cook until softened.
    3. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, until the edges of the rice are translucent.
    4. Pour in the white wine and cook until it is absorbed.
    5. Add the warm vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring occasionally until each cup is absorbed before adding the next.
    6. Once all the broth has been absorbed and the rice is creamy and cooked through, stir in the Parmesan cheese, butter, and cooked mushrooms.
    7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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8. Quick and Easy Jambalaya

This one-pot jambalaya is a simplified version of the Louisiana classic. It’s packed with sausage, shrimp, and a spicy kick that will transport you to New Orleans.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced, 1 onion, chopped, 1 green bell pepper, chopped, 2 celery stalks, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 cup long-grain white rice, 1 tsp Creole seasoning, 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned.
    2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery and cook until softened.
    3. Stir in the garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, rice, and Creole seasoning.
    4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
    5. Stir in the shrimp and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

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9. One-Pan Shepherd’s Pie

This classic comfort food is made even easier by cooking everything in one oven-safe skillet. A savory meat and vegetable filling is topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 lb ground lamb or beef, 1 onion, chopped, 2 carrots, chopped, 1 cup frozen peas, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 cup beef broth, 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 3 cups prepared mashed potatoes, Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions:
    1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    2. In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the ground meat over medium-high heat until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
    3. Add the onion and carrots and cook until softened.
    4. Stir in the flour, then add the beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
    5. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the frozen peas.
    6. Top the meat mixture with the mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly.
    7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the potatoes are golden brown.

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10. Creamy One-Pot Mac and Cheese

Forget the boxed stuff! This homemade mac and cheese is made in one pot and is incredibly creamy and cheesy. It’s the ultimate comfort food for a snowy day.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni, 4 cups milk, 2 tbsp butter, 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese, Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large pot, combine the macaroni, milk, and butter.
    2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is al dente.
    3. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheeses until melted and creamy.
    4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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11. One-Pot Thai Green Curry

Bring the flavors of Thailand to your kitchen with this easy one-pot green curry. It’s a fragrant and flavorful dish that’s packed with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy coconut-based sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 tbsp coconut oil, 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces, 2 tbsp green curry paste, 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk, 1 cup chicken broth, 1 red bell pepper, sliced, 1 cup broccoli florets, 1 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tsp sugar, Fresh basil and lime wedges for serving.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large pot, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
    2. Stir in the green curry paste and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
    3. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
    4. Add the bell pepper and broccoli and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
    5. Stir in the fish sauce and sugar.
    6. Serve over rice, garnished with fresh basil and a squeeze of lime juice.

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12. One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies

This one-pan meal is as easy as it is delicious. Chicken and vegetables are roasted together with lemon and herbs for a healthy and flavorful dinner.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 lb baby potatoes, halved, 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed, 1 lemon, thinly sliced, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried thyme, Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions:
    1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    2. On a large sheet pan, toss the chicken, potatoes, and asparagus with olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
    3. Arrange the lemon slices over the chicken and vegetables.
    4. Roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

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13. Creamy Shrimp and Grits

A Southern classic that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Creamy, cheesy grits are topped with succulent shrimp and a savory sauce for a truly comforting meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: For the grits: 4 cups water, 1 cup quick-cooking grits, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tbsp butter. For the shrimp: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/4 cup chicken broth, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions:
    1. For the grits, bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and stir in the cheese and butter.
    2. For the shrimp, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink.
    3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
    4. Pour in the chicken broth and cook until the sauce has slightly thickened.
    5. Serve the shrimp over the grits, garnished with fresh parsley.

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14. Classic French Onion Soup

This classic French soup is the ultimate comfort food. Sweet caramelized onions are simmered in a rich beef broth and topped with a crusty baguette and melted Gruyere cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 4
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 4 tbsp butter, 4 large onions, thinly sliced, 1 tsp sugar, 4 cups beef broth, 1/2 cup dry white wine, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 4 slices of baguette, toasted, 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the onions and sugar and cook, stirring occasionally, for 45-60 minutes, until deeply caramelized.
    2. Stir in the beef broth, white wine, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
    3. Preheat the broiler. Ladle the soup into four oven-safe bowls.
    4. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted baguette and a generous amount of Gruyere cheese.
    5. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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15. Hearty Goulash

This Hungarian-inspired goulash is a thick and hearty stew that’s perfect for a cold day. It’s packed with tender beef, onions, and a rich, paprika-spiced tomato sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 6
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 2 lbs beef stew meat, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 onions, chopped, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1/4 cup sweet paprika, 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes, 2 cups beef broth, 1 tbsp caraway seeds, Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches and set aside.
    2. Add the onions to the pot and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and paprika and cook for 1 minute more.
    3. Return the beef to the pot, then stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and caraway seeds.
    4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat, cover, and cook for 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
    5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

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16. One-Pot Minestrone Soup

This classic Italian soup is a healthy and hearty meal that’s packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta. It’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 onion, chopped, 2 carrots, chopped, 2 celery stalks, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, 6 cups vegetable broth, 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained, 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained, 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or small shells), 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
    2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, cannellini beans, oregano, and basil.
    3. Bring to a boil, then stir in the pasta. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked.
    4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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17. One-Pot Chicken Pot Pie

All the comforting flavors of a classic chicken pot pie, but made in one pot for easy cleanup. A creamy chicken and vegetable filling is topped with fluffy biscuits for a hearty and satisfying meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 tbsp butter, 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces, 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 cups chicken broth, 1/2 cup milk, 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
    2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
    3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth.
    4. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots.
    5. Place the biscuit dough on top of the chicken mixture.
    6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.

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18. One-Pot Shakshuka

This flavorful and exotic dish is perfect for a cozy brunch or a light dinner. Eggs are poached in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce, and it’s all made in one skillet.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 onion, chopped, 1 red bell pepper, chopped, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 4 large eggs, Salt and pepper to taste, Fresh cilantro and feta cheese for serving.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened.
    2. Stir in the garlic, crushed tomatoes, paprika, cumin, and chili powder.
    3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
    4. Make four wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well.
    5. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
    6. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh cilantro and feta cheese. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

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19. Hearty Lentil Soup

This simple yet satisfying lentil soup is a healthy and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for a cold day. It’s packed with vegetables and plant-based protein, and it’s all made in one pot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6
• Ingredients & Instructions:
  • Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 onion, chopped, 2 carrots, chopped, 2 celery stalks, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed, 6 cups vegetable broth, 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, 1 tsp dried thyme, Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
    2. Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme.
    3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
    4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Conclusion

These 19 one-pot dinners are proof that you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal. So the next time the snow starts to fall, pick one of these recipes, get cozy, and enjoy a warm and comforting dinner without the hassle of a sink full of dishes. Happy cooking