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How To Make A Sheet Pan Dinner + 5 Recipes To Try
Cooking at home can be a rewarding experience, whether you’re trying out complex recipes or returning to the basics. One approach that has gained popularity for its simplicity is the sheet pan dinner. This method allows you to minimize prep and cleanup time while still enjoying a delicious meal. Here’s how to turn any combination of ingredients into a satisfying sheet pan dinner in just four simple steps.
4 Steps to Dinner Using a Single Sheet Pan
1. Pick (and Prep) Your Ingredients and Spices
The foundation of a great sheet pan meal lies in selecting the right ingredients. Start by choosing a protein and a variety of vegetables—two or three will do. It’s essential to consider the cooking times for each ingredient. For instance, if you opt for chickpeas and sweet potatoes, cut the sweet potatoes into smaller pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate. Alternatively, give the sweet potatoes a head start in the oven before adding the chickpeas.
2. Grab Your Sheet Pan, Cooking Oil, and Ingredients
Before you begin, prep your sheet pan by coating it with a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking and facilitate cooking. Choose a healthy oil that won’t burn, like avocado oil or coconut oil, and avoid low-quality vegetable oils. After oiling the pan, toss your ingredients with additional oil and your chosen seasonings before spreading them out on the pan.
3. Get Things Cooking
The cooking temperature can vary but typically falls between 350°F and 400°F. Keep an eye on your meal as it cooks—check it every 10 to 15 minutes. Depending on your ingredients, it could take anywhere from 15 minutes to almost an hour.
4. Plate and Serve
For a no-fuss meal, you can serve directly from the pan. However, consider elevating the dish by pairing your roasted veggies and protein with fresh components. Add a base of bitter greens with dressing for a simple salad, or combine the roasted ingredients with ancient grains and hummus for a balanced grain bowl.
5 Sheet Pan Dinner Recipes for Inspiration
If the idea of improvising doesn’t excite you, here are five sheet pan recipes that cater to both vegans and meat-eaters, ensuring there’s something for everyone:
- Ayesha Curry’s Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken
A simple yet flavorful recipe where chicken thighs are paired with zucchini and onions, featuring a prominent paprika flavor. - Sheet Pan Provençale Vegetables
Ideal for plant-based eaters, this simplified version of ratatouille incorporates white beans for an added protein punch. - Moroccan Chicken Sheet-Pan Supper
This dish combines chicken with a surprising addition: dried fruit, resulting in a delightful balance of flavors. - Honey Roasted Carrots & Parsnips With Quinoa & Arugula
A beautiful fall-inspired vegetarian option where everything cooks on the same sheet pan. - One-Pan Jerk Chicken Dinner
A family-friendly recipe focusing on traditional Jamaican flavors that are easy to prepare and full of taste.
Conclusion
Sheet pan dinners are the perfect solution for busy weeknights, allowing you to create delicious meals with minimal effort. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can experiment with different ingredients based on what you have on hand, reducing food waste while satisfying your culinary cravings. If you’re looking for more meal ideas, don’t hesitate to explore additional recipes or engage in some five-ingredient lunch inspiration for more cooking fun!
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