7 Easy One-Pot and Air Fryer Recipes for Hassle-Free Cooking

Cleaning up after cooking can be a real drag, but these 7 easy one-pot and air fryer recipes take the hassle out of meal prep. Grab your favorite ingredients and get ready to whip up delicious dishes without the stress of a mountain of dirty dishes. Let’s simplify your cooking experience while still enjoying tasty meals!

Creamy Garlic Pasta in One Pot

This creamy garlic pasta is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and incredibly easy to whip up. With rich flavors of garlic and a smooth cream sauce, it’s a perfect meal for any night of the week. Plus, it’s a one-pot recipe, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

The simple ingredients come together beautifully, making this dish not only tasty but also quick to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a satisfying dinner for yourself, this pasta hits the spot!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the broth and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the Pasta: Add the fettuccine or spaghetti to the boiling broth, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Make it Creamy: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

One Pot Mediterranean Couscous

This One Pot Mediterranean Couscous is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes for a simple and satisfying meal. It features fluffy couscous tossed with ripe tomatoes, briny olives, and fresh herbs, all coming together in a single pot, which means minimal cleanup for you!

The dish is light yet packed with flavor, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering. The combination of the ingredients creates a refreshing and vibrant taste that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add couscous, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the broth.
2. Fluff the couscous with a fork and add olive oil, cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, and parsley. Mix until combined.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

One-Pot Chili with Beans and Corn

One-Pot Chili with Beans and Corn is the perfect dish for chilly evenings or lazy weekends. It’s hearty, warming, and packed with flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. The combination of beans and corn gives the chili a delightful texture, while the spices provide just the right amount of kick. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy days.

This recipe allows you to enjoy a wholesome meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Just toss everything into one pot, let it simmer, and you’ll have a delicious chili ready to serve in no time. It’s a great option for meal prep or a cozy family dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, and crushed tomatoes. Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Air Fryer Crispy Tofu with Broccoli

Air Fryer Crispy Tofu with Broccoli is a simple and tasty dish that brings together the nutty flavor of crispy tofu and the fresh crunch of broccoli. This meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious lunch. The air fryer gives the tofu a delightful crispiness while keeping the cooking process easy and cleanup minimal.

With just a few ingredients and steps, you can achieve a satisfying meal that balances protein and veggies perfectly. Plus, the tofu absorbs flavors beautifully, making it a hit even among those who typically shy away from plant-based meals. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 14 ounces firm tofu, drained and pressed
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and place them in a bowl. Add soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the tofu evenly.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
3. Add to Air Fryer: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the tofu cubes in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 10 minutes.
4. Add Broccoli: After 10 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the basket. Toss everything gently and air fry for an additional 5-7 minutes until the tofu is golden and crispy, and the broccoli is tender.
5. Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately. Enjoy on its own or with a side of rice or noodles!

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Quinoa in One Pot

This Vegetable Stir-Fry with Quinoa is a delightful and colorful dish that combines a variety of fresh vegetables with nutty quinoa, creating a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is easy to whip up in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

With vibrant veggies like bell peppers, peas, and carrots, this stir-fry bursts with flavor and texture. The quinoa adds a lovely nuttiness while packing in protein, making it a well-rounded option for anyone. Whether you’re vegetarian or just looking for a light meal, this recipe fits the bill!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or basil)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped carrots and diced bell peppers to the pot. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.
3. Stir in the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. Once the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, add the green peas and soy sauce, stirring gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Savory Chicken and Rice Air Fryer Dish

This savory chicken and rice air fryer dish combines tender chicken with fluffy rice and vibrant vegetables. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Plus, the air fryer makes cooking this dish a breeze, with minimal cleanup afterward!

With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. It’s an excellent option for those who want a hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and let it heat for about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
4. Prepare the Rice: While the chicken is cooking, rinse the rice under cold water and drain. In a pot, combine the rice, chicken broth, and mixed vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until rice is tender.
5. Serve: Once everything is cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve alongside the crispy chicken thighs. Enjoy your easy and tasty meal!

Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Fresh Slaw

These Air Fryer Fish Tacos are a delightful way to enjoy a light and crispy meal without the hassle of deep frying. The fish is perfectly seasoned and air-fried to a golden finish, resulting in a tender interior with a delicious crunch. Paired with a vibrant fresh slaw, these tacos are both refreshing and satisfying.

Making these tacos is simple and requires minimal cleanup, making them a great choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Just load up your tortillas with the crispy fish and top them with a colorful slaw for a burst of flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup cabbage, finely shredded
• 1/2 cup carrots, grated
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture over the fish fillets.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the seasoned fish, ensuring it’s well coated. Place the fillets in the air fryer basket and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is cooked through and flaky.
4. While the fish is cooking, prepare the slaw by combining cabbage, carrots, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, mayonnaise, and sriracha in a bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable. Assemble the tacos by placing a piece of fish on each tortilla and topping with the fresh slaw.
6. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick!