The autumn brings with it cooler days, cozy nights at home, and cravings for warm, comforting meals. Instead of spending hours in the kitchen, try making one of these easy one-pot meals. They require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor.
A hearty beef and vegetable stew is perfect for chilly fall evenings. Brown 1-2 pounds of beef chuck in oil, then add broth, wine or beer, and vegetables like carrots, celery, potatoes, and peas. Simmer for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender. The long cooking time allows the flavors to blend and intensify. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
For something lighter, make a chicken and wild rice soup. Sauté onions and carrots, then add broth, chicken, rice, parsley, and thyme. Simmer until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. The rice will thicken the soup, so you can add more broth for your desired consistency. This comforting soup works well as a casual weekday meal or easy weekend dinner.
Pasta and beans are an ideal vegetarian one-pot meal. Sauté garlic and chili peppers in olive oil, then add canned beans, pasta, vegetable broth, and tomato sauce. Simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes. The starch from the pasta will create a creamy sauce. Top with parmesan cheese, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. This dish comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like you spent hours cooking.
For breakfast, make a hearty strata. Whisk eggs and combine with bread, cheese, and vegetables of your choice like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Let soak overnight, then bake until the center is set. The bread absorbs the egg mixture, resulting in a dish that’s part soufflé, part casserole. Serve warm with fresh fruit. This do-ahead dish is ideal for casual brunches or feeding overnight guests.
One-pot meals minimize time spent cooking and cleaning. Focus on recipes with minimal ingredients that create lots of flavor. With the right spices, herbs, and cooking technique, you can transform basic ingredients into a comforting, satisfying dish. Keep your pantry stocked with staples like broths, beans, grains, and pasta so you always have the makings of an easy one-pot meal.