10 Quick and Easy One-Pot and Air Fryer Recipes for Busy Families

Need some quick and easy dinner ideas that the whole family will love? These 10 family-approved one-pot and air fryer recipes are here to help save you time in the kitchen while still delivering tasty meals everyone can enjoy. Say goodbye to lengthy clean-ups and hello to delicious, hassle-free cooking!

Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts

These Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts are a perfect blend of crunchy and tender, with a touch of sweetness and a hint of savory flavor. They’re easy to make, taking minimal prep time and just a few ingredients, making them an ideal side dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

With their delightful texture and taste, these Brussels sprouts can turn any meal into something special. Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional frying, retaining all the nutrients while giving you that satisfying crisp. Serve them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra pop of flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from the air fryer and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Air Fryer Cheesy Veggie Quinoa

This Air Fryer Cheesy Veggie Quinoa is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that your whole family will love. Imagine a warm, cheesy dish packed with colorful veggies and wholesome quinoa, all cooked in one pot. It’s simple, quick, and perfect for busy weeknights!

The combination of melted cheese and fresh vegetables gives each bite a satisfying taste that kids and adults alike can enjoy. Plus, cooking it in the air fryer means it’s not only quicker but also healthier than traditional frying methods. Get ready to serve up a meal that’s nutritious and full of flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced bell peppers, peas, corn, shredded cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
3. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the quinoa mixture into the air fryer basket and cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
4. Serve: Remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy veggie quinoa!

One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice

This One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe is a perfect weeknight meal that’s both simple and delicious. With tender chicken and fluffy rice cooked together in a creamy sauce, every bite is packed with flavor that the whole family will love.

It’s a hassle-free dish that requires minimal cleanup, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings. Plus, the combination of spices and creamy goodness is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent.
2. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
3. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
4. In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas. Cook until they’re heated through.
5. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

One-Pot Vegetable Stir-Fry

This One-Pot Vegetable Stir-Fry is a quick and colorful dish that brings together a variety of fresh vegetables in a delicious and savory sauce. It’s not only packed with flavor but also healthy, making it perfect for family dinners. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, which means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

The vibrant mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes adds a delightful crunch and freshness to the dish. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Add the bell peppers and broccoli to the pan, cooking for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve over cooked rice or noodles.

One-Pot Spaghetti with Meatballs

This One-Pot Spaghetti with Meatballs is a delightful and hassle-free meal that the whole family will love. It combines tender spaghetti and juicy meatballs in a rich, savory tomato sauce, delivering a comforting taste that feels both familiar and satisfying.

Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also cuts down on clean-up time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just one pot to clean and a delicious flavor profile, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 2 cups water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into meatballs.
2. In the same pot, place the meatballs and brown them over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. Add the spaghetti, marinara sauce, and water to the pot, ensuring the spaghetti is submerged. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the spaghetti is tender and the meatballs are cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas

Air fryer chicken fajitas are a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love. They combine tender, juicy chicken with colorful bell peppers and onions, all seasoned with a zesty blend of spices. The air fryer cooks everything to perfection, giving you that desirable char without the need for a grill. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze!

This recipe is not only simple to follow but also allows for flexibility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Serve them in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings, and you’ll have a delicious and satisfying dinner in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced into strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• Optional toppings: salsa, guacamole, sour cream, cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the chicken, bell peppers, onion, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well coated.
3. Place the mixture in the air fryer basket and cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
4. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or the microwave.
5. Assemble the fajitas by placing the chicken and vegetable mixture onto the tortillas, adding any optional toppings you like. Serve warm and enjoy!

Air Fryer Salmon with Asparagus

This Air Fryer Salmon with Asparagus is a quick and delicious meal that brings together the rich flavors of salmon and the crisp freshness of asparagus. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to flaky perfection, it’s a family-friendly dish that everyone will love. Plus, using an air fryer saves time and makes cleanup a breeze!

The combination of tender salmon and vibrant asparagus not only looks great on the plate but also tastes fantastic. This recipe is super easy to follow, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or a special weekend treat.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, drizzle the salmon and asparagus with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and add the asparagus around them.
3. Cook: Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is tender. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the salmon.
4. Serve: Plate the salmon and asparagus, squeezing fresh lemon juice over the top before serving. Enjoy your healthy, delicious meal!

One-Pot Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that’s warm, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying. This one-pot version makes it easy to whip up a hearty meal without a lot of fuss. The tender beef and rich sauce pair beautifully with noodles, creating a dish that’s perfect for any family dinner.

With just a few simple ingredients and one pot, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that everyone will love. Plus, clean-up is a breeze! Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and season with salt and pepper. Brown on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in Sour Cream: Once the noodles are cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious one-pot beef stroganoff!

One-Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli

This One-Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli is a creamy, cheesy delight that the whole family will love. It combines tender pasta with fresh broccoli, all coated in a rich cheese sauce that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, with everything cooked in one pot, clean-up is a breeze!

Making this dish is simple and quick, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The cheesy goodness paired with the vibrant green of the broccoli not only tastes amazing but also adds a pop of color to your table. It’s comfort food made easy, and you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Stir in the broccoli florets during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
3. Reduce heat to low and add the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Gradually add the cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
5. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious option for dinner or game night, these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings are the perfect choice. They are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them a hit with the whole family.

With the enticing combination of garlic and parmesan, each bite is a tasty treat. Cooking them in the air fryer ensures they are healthier than traditional frying, without sacrificing that delightful crunch. Serve these wings with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible snack or meal!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss until the wings are evenly coated.
3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the wings and mix well to ensure they are all covered.
4. Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Cook for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
6. Once golden brown and crisp, remove the wings from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.