The holidays can get hectic, and spending hours on dinner just isn’t practical. These one-pot recipes are perfect for nights when you want something comforting without the hassle of multiple pans or a big cleanup. They’re simple, satisfying meals that come together quickly, so you can focus on everything else this season brings.
Brisket Chili
Brisket Chili is packed with leftover brisket, beans, and peppers in a thick tomato base. Perfect for a busy holiday night, it’s hearty, comforting, and all comes together in one pot.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Chili
Chicken Lime Soup
Chicken Lime Soup is a bold mix of chicken noodle and tortilla soup. It’s a quick, one-pot way to keep things simple while still delivering big flavor during the holiday rush.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lime Soup
Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese
Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese brings together spinach, peppers, and real cheddar in one pan. It’s quick, satisfying, and way better than boxed stuff, making it a great option for those packed holiday nights.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
This Creamy Mushroom Risotto with peas is rich and velvety, all without dairy. Made in one pot, it’s an easy way to enjoy something a little fancy without the holiday chaos.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Italian Tomato Pasta Soup
Italian Tomato Pasta Soup is packed with ground beef, sausage, mushrooms, and escarole. It’s hearty, simple, and perfect for when you need a comforting dinner with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Italian Tomato Pasta Soup
Turkey Stew
Turkey Stew combines shredded turkey, potatoes, mushrooms, and fresh herbs into a one-pot dinner that’s perfect for colder nights. The touch of balsamic vinegar makes it pop, and it’s as easy as it is comforting.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stew
Instant Pot Bean Soup
This Instant Pot Bean Soup brings together a hearty mix of beans and lentils in a tomato base. Kale stirred in at the end keeps it fresh and vibrant. Perfect for a low-effort dinner during the holiday crunch.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Bean Soup
Pumpkin Potato Soup
Pumpkin Potato Soup is creamy, comforting, and ridiculously easy. Toss it all in a blender, and in minutes you’ve got a great one-pot meal that fits perfectly into a busy holiday schedule.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Potato Soup
Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup
Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup is a one-pot favorite made easy with an Instant Pot. Cheesy, rich, and brightened with basil, it’s great for nights when you’re juggling holiday chaos and still want something comforting.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup
Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili
Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili mixes turkey, hummus, and spices into a creamy, one-pot dish that’s perfect for cold nights when you need something hearty without the extra work.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili
Moroccan Lamb Lentil Stew
Moroccan Lamb Lentil Stew brings together lentils, chickpeas, and bold spices in one pot. Serve it with a little cilantro and yogurt for an easy, comforting dinner that feels festive.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Lamb Lentil Stew
Thai Red Curry Soup
Thai Red Curry Soup is full of flavor and incredibly quick to make. With noodles and a rich curry broth, it’s a perfect one-pot meal for busy nights when takeout feels like too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Thai Red Curry Soup
Slow Cooker Lamb Stew
Slow Cooker Lamb Stew combines lamb, white beans, kale, and tomatoes into one bowl of comfort. Let it simmer all day and enjoy a hearty, stress-free dinner when the holiday craziness hits.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Lamb Stew
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
