10 Easy One-Pot and Air Fryer Recipes for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Busy weeknights don’t have to mean sacrificing tasty meals. With these 10 easy one-pot and air fryer recipes, you can whip up satisfying dinners with minimal effort and cleanup. Perfect for those evenings when time is tight but flavor matters, these recipes will keep everyone at the table happy and fed.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a simple and delicious dish that brings comfort to your weeknight dinners. With its creamy texture and rich garlic flavor, it makes for a satisfying meal everyone will love.

The best part? It only takes about 20 minutes to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy evenings. Toss in your favorite veggies or protein to customize it to your liking!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta back into the pot. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers

Air Fryer stuffed bell peppers are a fantastic choice for a quick, tasty dinner. They combine bold flavors with the natural sweetness of the peppers, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Using an air fryer makes them easy to prepare and helps to keep them healthy while still delivering that delicious roasted flavor.

This recipe is straightforward and perfect for busy weeknights. You can customize the filling with your favorite proteins and veggies, making it versatile for any taste. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a colorful and nutritious dish ready to serve!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground turkey or beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set them aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture, packing it in tightly. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Air fryer sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fries pack a sweet and savory punch that everyone will love. Plus, they’re super easy to make, making them a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a quick snack.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. The air fryer allows you to achieve that perfect crunch without the excess oil, making these fries a guilt-free treat. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you have a dish that’s sure to satisfy!

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into thin strips, about 1/4 inch wide.
3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato strips with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
4. Place the sweet potato fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a quick and delicious weeknight meal that packs a punch of flavor without a lot of fuss. Tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and sweet carrots come together in a savory sauce that everyone will love. The best part? It’s all made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

With a perfect balance of tender meat and crunchy veggies, this dish is not just satisfying but also healthy. It’s simple to whip up in about 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that hits all the right spots.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced thinly
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli and carrots, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
4. Add Everything Together: Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the water and stir to combine all ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce thickens.
5. Serve: Enjoy your beef and broccoli stir-fry hot over rice or noodles!

Mushroom Risotto with Peas

Mushroom Risotto with Peas is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The earthy flavors of mushrooms blend beautifully with sweet peas, creating a simple yet satisfying meal. Plus, it’s made in just one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your dinner.

This risotto is not only delicious but also quite easy to prepare. With a few basic ingredients and some stirring, you can whip up a bowl of warmth that the whole family will love. It’s a great way to impress guests or treat yourself to something special on a busy evening.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and sauté until they are soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
4. Gradually add the vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the liquid to absorb before adding more.
5. When the rice is almost tender, stir in the peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and mix in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.

One-Pot Lemon Herb Rice and Shrimp

This One-Pot Lemon Herb Rice and Shrimp is a delightful weeknight dinner that’s bursting with fresh flavors. The combination of zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and tender shrimp makes it a dish that’s both simple to prepare and impressively tasty.

In just one pot, you can have a complete meal ready in no time, making it perfect for busy evenings. The rice absorbs all the lovely flavors while the shrimp cooks to a perfect tenderness. It’s a dish that feels special but is easy enough for any home cook.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the rice, stirring it for another minute to toast it slightly.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, lemon zest, and juice. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
5. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the shrimp on top of the rice. Cover again and let the shrimp steam until pink and cooked through.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu

This Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu is a quick, healthy, and vibrant dish that brings fresh flavors to your dinner table. It’s a perfect mix of crisp vegetables and protein-packed tofu, making it satisfying without being heavy. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this recipe is simple to whip up and can be customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand.

With its colorful presentation and delicious taste, this stir-fry will please both veggie lovers and those looking for a hearty meal. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious dish in just one pot!

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 large carrot, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare Tofu: In a bowl, toss the cubed tofu with soy sauce and let it marinate for about 15 minutes. Sprinkle with cornstarch before cooking for a crispier texture.
2. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook Tofu: Add the marinated tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry Veggies: In the same skillet, add the garlic, ginger, and sliced vegetables. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
5. Combine: Add the tofu back to the skillet, mix well, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
6. Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving hot over rice or on its own.

One-Pot Chicken and Rice

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies makes for a comforting dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

The flavors meld beautifully as everything cooks together, offering a delightful blend of spices and textures. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze with just one pot to wash!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in the diced peppers and cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Add the rice and spices, mixing well to coat. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Spicy Air Fryer Fish Tacos

These spicy air fryer fish tacos are a delightful mix of crispy, flaky fish wrapped in warm tortillas, topped with fresh veggies and a zesty sauce. If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe is a perfect fit. The combination of spices gives the fish a nice kick while keeping it light and healthy.

Making these tacos is simple and requires minimal prep time. You’ll love how the air fryer gives the fish a wonderful texture without the need for excessive oil. Serve them with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 pound white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the fish fillets evenly in the mixture.
2. Air Fry the Fish: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the fish fillets in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
3. Warm the Tortillas: While the fish cooks, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place the cooked fish in the tortillas, and top with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.
5. Serve: Finish off with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your spicy fish tacos!

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Crispy air fryer chicken thighs are a simple yet satisfying dish that brings great flavor and texture to your weeknight dinners. With a perfectly crisp skin and juicy meat, these thighs are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy nights.

This recipe is all about simplicity without sacrificing taste. Season the chicken with your favorite spices, pop them in the air fryer, and let the appliance work its magic. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that crispy skin.
2. Season: In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken to coat evenly.
3. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions before serving.