13 one-pot meals to keep the kitchen clean after the holidays

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After the chaos of holiday cooking, who has the energy to tackle a pile of dishes? One-pot meals are the hero we all need this week—minimal effort, maximum payoff, and a kitchen that stays clean. These recipes keep things simple without skimping on flavor, so you can enjoy something great without the hassle.

Buffalo chicken soup with orzo served in a bowl with blue cheese crumbles and green onion.
Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Chicken Lime Soup

Spicy chicken lime soup in bowls.
Chicken Lime Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This spicy chicken lime soup is like the perfect middle ground between chicken noodle and tortilla soup. It’s comforting, flavorful, and all made in one pot, keeping cleanup simple.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lime Soup

Mexican Vegetable Soup

Mexican vegetable soup with quinoa in a bowl.
Mexican Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Hearty and quick, this Mexican vegetable soup is packed with quinoa and veggies, making it a great one-pot option for busy nights. Ready in under 20 minutes and flexible with what’s in your fridge.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Vegetable Soup

Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese with ground turkey in a pot.
Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This one-skillet mac and cheese combines turkey, spinach, peppers, and cheddar for a fast, hearty meal. It’s ready in 30 minutes and leaves you with just one pan to wash.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto with peas and mushrooms in a pot with wooden spoon.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This dairy-free mushroom risotto brings rich, creamy flavors to the table. It’s a one-pot dish that feels fancy but is actually super low-maintenance to pull together.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Italian Tomato Pasta Soup

Italian tomato soup with pasta in a mug with a spoon.
Italian Tomato Pasta Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Ground beef, sausage, mushrooms, and escarole come together in this tomato-based pasta soup. It’s hearty, easy to throw together, and perfect when you’re craving something comforting.
Get the Recipe: Italian Tomato Pasta Soup

Turkey Stew

A bowl of turkey stew with carrots and potatoes.
Turkey Stew. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Shredded turkey, baby potatoes, mushrooms, and fresh herbs simmer together in this cozy one-pot stew. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds just the right balance to the savory flavors.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stew

Escarole and Beans

Escarole and beans in a white bowl with red pepper flakes on the side.
Escarole and Beans. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A classic one-pot dish of escarole and beans that’s simple, hearty, and perfect when you want a quick vegetarian option after the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Escarole and Beans

Kabocha Squash Chili

A bowl of kabocha squash chili in a bowl on a blue plate.
Kabocha Squash Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Kabocha squash adds a nutty, subtly sweet flavor to this vegetarian chili. It’s a one-pot slow cooker meal that’s filling and perfect for colder days.
Get the Recipe: Kabocha Squash Chili

Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup

Buffalo chicken soup with orzo served in a bowl with blue cheese crumbles and green onion.
Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This buffalo chicken soup with orzo is cheesy, spicy, and ridiculously easy to make. It’s ready in 30 minutes and great for anyone who loves bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup

Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili

A bowl of chili with apples, beans and sour cream.
Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Creamy chicken chili with white beans, cheddar, and a hint of apple. It’s a little unconventional but works perfectly as a one-pot fall or winter meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili

Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup

A bowl of soup with an egg on top.
Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A mashup of hot and sour and egg drop soups in one pot. It’s quick, flavorful, and a great choice for when you want something comforting without a ton of work.
Get the Recipe: Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup

Moroccan Lamb Lentil Stew

Moroccan Lamb Lentil Stew. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This one-pot lamb and lentil stew is packed with Moroccan spices, chickpeas, and hearty flavors. Serve it with fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Lamb Lentil Stew

Thai Red Curry Soup

Thai Red Curry Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Big on flavor but easy to make, this red curry soup comes together in just 25 minutes. Loaded with noodles and customizable with what’s in your pantry, it’s a perfect one-pot dinner.
Get the Recipe: Thai Red Curry Soup

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