Quick and easy sheet pan dinners for beginners

30 Quick And Easy Sheet Pan Dinners For Beginners

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Forget the fuss and say hello to sheet pan bliss! Here, are 20 quick and easy dinners that revolutionize weeknight cooking while taming your rumbling stomach in one fell swoop.

No more dirtying every pot and pan to cobble together a meal that leaves you in a disheveled heap. These sheet pan suppers allow you to roast, bake, and sear your way to mouthwatering flavor in a single sizzle-worthy pan.

Say “sayonara” to kitchen chaos and hurry into the warm embrace of one-pan meals.

1. Garlic Herb Chicken and Vegetables

Garlic Herb Chicken and Vegetables

Ingredients (per serving):

    2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts ($4.50)
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots) ($2.75)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic ($0.25)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil ($0.30)
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano) ($0.15)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste ($0.05)

Total Estimated Cost: $8.00 per serving

Prep and Cook Details;

    Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Beginner-Friendly
  • Oven Temperature: 425°F (218°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Preheat your sheet pan in the oven for 5 minutes (this creates that crispy exterior, no cap)
  • Chop vegetables into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking
  • Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels (moisture is the enemy of crispy)
  • Mince garlic super fine – we want that flavor distributed evenly
  • Toss vegetables with 1 tablespoon olive oil, half the herbs, salt, and pepper
  • Brush chicken with remaining olive oil, sprinkle with remaining herbs
  • Spread vegetables on sheet pan, create space in center for chicken
  • Arrange chicken breasts in the center, not touching
  • Roast for 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temp
  • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in those juices

2. Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon

Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon

Okay, this dish is giving main character energy. It’s fresh, sophisticated, and literally tastes like a bougie restaurant meal you made yourself.

Ingredients (per serving):

    6 oz salmon fillet ($6.50)
  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus ($2.25)
  • 2 lemon slices ($0.30)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil ($0.30)
  • Fresh dill ($0.50)
  • Sea salt and cracked pepper ($0.10)

Total Estimated Cost: $9.95 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Super Easy
  • Oven Temperature: 400°F (204°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Trim asparagus ends – nobody wants those woody bottoms
  • Pat salmon completely dry (we’re going for that crispy exterior)
  • Arrange asparagus in single layer, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Season asparagus with pinch of salt and pepper
  • Place salmon on same sheet pan, skin-side down
  • Brush salmon with remaining olive oil
  • Top salmon with lemon slices and fresh dill
  • Roast for 12-15 minutes until salmon is just opaque
  • Optional pro tip: finish with squeeze of fresh lemon juice

3. BBQ Pork Chops and Sweet Potatoes

BBQ Pork Chops and Sweet Potatoes

Absolute comfort food goals – this dish is giving southern kitchen realness with a gourmet twist!

Ingredients (per serving):

    2 bone-in pork chops ($5.75)
  • 1 large sweet potato ($1.50)
  • 2 tablespoons homemade BBQ sauce ($0.40)
  • 1 red onion ($0.75)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil ($0.30)
  • Smoked paprika ($0.20)

Total Estimated Cost: $8.90 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Beginner-Friendly
  • Oven Temperature: 425°F (218°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Cube sweet potatoes into 1-inch chunks for perfect caramelization
  • Slice red onion into thick rings
  • Pat pork chops dry with paper towels
  • Season pork with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper
  • Toss sweet potatoes and onions with olive oil
  • Spread vegetables on sheet pan first
  • Place pork chops on top of vegetables
  • Brush pork with BBQ sauce
  • Roast until pork reaches 145°F internal temperature
  • Let rest 5 minutes before serving

4. Mediterranean Shrimp and Vegetables

Mediterranean Shrimp and Vegetables

Vacation vibes on a sheet pan, this dish is like a Mediterranean getaway for your taste buds.

Ingredients (per serving):

    12 large raw shrimp ($6.25)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes ($2.00)
  • 1 red bell pepper ($1.25)
  • 1/2 red onion ($0.50)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil ($0.45)
  • Fresh oregano ($0.75)
  • Crumbled feta cheese ($1.00)

Total Estimated Cost: $12.20 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
  • Prep Time: 8 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy Peasy
  • Oven Temperature: 400°F (204°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Slice bell peppers and onions into similar-sized pieces
  • Halve cherry tomatoes
  • Pat shrimp completely dry
  • Mix olive oil with dried oregano, salt, and pepper
  • Toss vegetables with half the herb oil
  • Spread vegetables on sheet pan
  • Arrange shrimp on top of vegetables
  • Drizzle remaining herb oil over shrimp
  • Roast until shrimp turn pink and opaque
  • Sprinkle with fresh feta before serving

5. Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli

Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli

Takeout who? This homemade version is about to become your new obsession.

Ingredients (per serving):

    2 chicken thighs ($3.50)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets ($1.75)
  • 3 tablespoons teriyaki sauce ($0.50)
  • 2 green onions ($0.25)
  • Sesame seeds ($0.20)
  • 2 cloves garlic ($0.15)

Total Estimated Cost: $6.35 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Beginner
  • Oven Temperature: 425°F (218°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Cut broccoli into uniform florets
  • Mince garlic super fine
  • Pat chicken thighs dry
  • Mix teriyaki sauce with minced garlic
  • Toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper
  • Spread broccoli on sheet pan
  • Place chicken thighs on top of broccoli
  • Brush chicken with teriyaki garlic sauce
  • Roast until chicken reaches 165°F
  • Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds

6. Honey Mustard Chicken and Carrots

Honey Mustard Chicken and Carrots

Sweet and tangy vibes that’ll make your kitchen smell like pure happiness.

Ingredients (per serving):

    2 chicken drumsticks ($3.00)
  • 4 whole carrots ($1.25)
  • 2 tablespoons honey ($0.40)
  • 2 tablespoons dijon mustard ($0.30)
  • Fresh thyme ($0.50)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil ($0.25)

Total Estimated Cost: $5.70 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Super Simple
  • Oven Temperature: 400°F (204°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Peel and cut carrots into long diagonal pieces
  • Whisk honey and dijon mustard together
  • Pat chicken drumsticks dry
  • Toss carrots with olive oil and thyme
  • Spread carrots on sheet pan
  • Place drumsticks on top of carrots
  • Brush chicken with honey mustard mixture
  • Roast until chicken is golden and crispy
  • Sprinkle with fresh thyme before serving

7. Sheet Pan Fajitas

Sheet Pan Fajitas

Ingredients (per serving):

    1 lb chicken breast, sliced ($5.50)
  • 2 bell peppers (mix of colors) ($2.25)
  • 1 red onion ($0.75)
  • 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning ($0.35)
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice ($0.25)
  • Fresh cilantro ($0.50)
  • Flour tortillas ($1.25)

Total Estimated Cost: $10.85 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Intermediate Beginner
  • Oven Temperature: 425°F (218°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Slice chicken into thin, uniform strips
  • Cut bell peppers and onions into similar-sized strips
  • Mix fajita seasoning with olive oil and lime juice
  • Toss vegetables separately from chicken
  • Spread vegetables on sheet pan first
  • Layer chicken strips on top of vegetables
  • Drizzle with seasoning mixture
  • Roast until chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are slightly charred
  • Serve with warm tortillas and fresh cilantro

8. Greek-Style Chicken and Vegetables

Greek-Style Chicken and Vegetables

Mediterranean magic that’ll transport you straight to a Greek island, no passport required.

Ingredients (per serving):

    2 chicken thighs ($3.50)
  • 1 zucchini ($1.25)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes ($1.00)
  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives ($1.50)
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt ($0.50)
  • Fresh oregano ($0.40)
  • Crumbled feta cheese ($1.25)

Total Estimated Cost: $9.40 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Oven Temperature: 400°F (204°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Cut zucchini into half-moon shapes
  • Halve cherry tomatoes
  • Pat chicken thighs dry
  • Mix olive oil with dried oregano and lemon zest
  • Spread vegetables on sheet pan
  • Place chicken thighs on top of vegetables
  • Drizzle with herb-infused oil
  • Roast until chicken is golden and crispy
  • Top with kalamata olives and feta
  • Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt

9. Parmesan Crusted Fish and Asparagus

Parmesan Crusted Fish and Asparagus

Fancy dinner vibes without the fancy restaurant prices – total culinary flex!

Ingredients (per serving):

    6 oz white fish fillet ($6.75)
  • 1 bunch asparagus ($2.50)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan ($1.25)
  • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs ($0.20)
  • Lemon wedges ($0.30)
  • Fresh dill ($0.50)

Total Estimated Cost: $11.50 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Prep Time: 8 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Beginner-Friendly
  • Oven Temperature: 425°F (218°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Trim asparagus ends
  • Mix parmesan with breadcrumbs and herbs
  • Pat fish completely dry
  • Coat fish with parmesan mixture
  • Arrange asparagus on sheet pan
  • Place fish on top of asparagus
  • Drizzle everything with olive oil
  • Roast until fish is flaky and golden
  • Finish with fresh lemon squeeze and dill

10. Buffalo Chicken and Cauliflower

Buffalo Chicken and Cauliflower

Spicy, crispy, and totally addictive. it’s where game day meets healthy eating.

Ingredients (per serving):

    2 chicken tenders ($3.75)
  • 2 cups cauliflower florets ($1.50)
  • 1/4 cup buffalo sauce ($0.50)
  • 2 tablespoons ranch dressing ($0.35)
  • Green onions ($0.25)
  • Celery sticks ($0.50)

Total Estimated Cost: $6.85 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Oven Temperature: 415°F (213°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Break cauliflower into uniform florets
  • Pat chicken tenders dry
  • Toss cauliflower with olive oil and salt
  • Spread cauliflower on sheet pan
  • Place chicken tenders on top
  • Coat chicken with buffalo sauce
  • Roast until chicken is cooked through
  • Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce
  • Garnish with chopped green onions
  • Serve with celery sticks and ranch

11. Maple Glazed Salmon and Brussels Sprouts

Maple Glazed Salmon and Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients (per serving):

    6 oz salmon fillet ($7.25)
  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts ($2.50)
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup ($0.75)
  • 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard ($0.40)
  • Fresh thyme ($0.50)
  • Toasted pecans ($1.25)

Total Estimated Cost: $12.65 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Intermediate
  • Oven Temperature: 400°F (204°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Halve Brussels sprouts
  • Whisk maple syrup with mustard and olive oil
  • Pat salmon dry
  • Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil and salt
  • Spread Brussels sprouts on sheet pan
  • Place salmon on top of vegetables
  • Brush salmon with maple mustard glaze
  • Roast until salmon is just opaque
  • Sprinkle with toasted pecans and fresh thyme

12. Italian Sausage and Peppers

Italian Sausage and Peppers

Straight-up comfort food that’s giving major Sunday dinner vibes!

Ingredients (per serving):

    2 Italian sausage links ($4.50)
  • 2 bell peppers (mixed colors) ($2.25)
  • 1 red onion ($0.75)
  • 2 cloves garlic ($0.20)
  • Fresh basil ($0.50)
  • Balsamic vinegar ($0.35)

Total Estimated Cost: $8.55 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Super Easy
  • Oven Temperature: 425°F (218°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Slice peppers and onions into thick strips
  • Mince garlic finely
  • Prick sausages with fork to prevent bursting
  • Toss vegetables with olive oil and garlic
  • Spread vegetables on sheet pan
  • Place sausages on top of vegetables
  • Drizzle with balsamic vinegar
  • Roast until sausages are fully cooked
  • Garnish with fresh basil leaves

13. Lemon Herb Shrimp and Zucchini

Lemon Herb Shrimp and Zucchini

Coastal cuisine energy that’ll make you feel like you’re on a Mediterranean vacation.

Ingredients (per serving):

    12 large raw shrimp ($6.75)
  • 2 medium zucchinis ($1.50)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh herbs ($0.75)
  • 2 lemons ($0.50)
  • Garlic ($0.25)
  • White wine ($0.50)

Total Estimated Cost: $10.25 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Prep Time: 8 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Beginner-Friendly
  • Oven Temperature: 400°F (204°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Slice zucchini into half-moon shapes
  • Mince fresh herbs and garlic
  • Pat shrimp completely dry
  • Mix olive oil with herbs, garlic, and lemon zest
  • Spread zucchini on sheet pan
  • Arrange shrimp on top of zucchini
  • Drizzle with herb mixture
  • Splash with white wine
  • Roast until shrimp turn pink
  • Finish with fresh lemon juice

14. Moroccan Spiced Chicken and Chickpeas

Moroccan Spiced Chicken and Chickpeas

Ingredients (per serving):

    2 chicken thighs ($3.50)
  • 1 can chickpeas ($1.25)
  • 2 tablespoons ras el hanout spice ($0.75)
  • 1 red onion ($0.50)
  • Fresh cilantro ($0.40)
  • Lemon wedges ($0.25)

Total Estimated Cost: $6.65 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Intermediate
  • Oven Temperature: 415°F (213°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Drain and pat chickpeas dry
  • Slice red onion into wedges
  • Pat chicken thighs dry
  • Mix ras el hanout with olive oil
  • Toss chickpeas and onions with spice mixture
  • Spread chickpeas on sheet pan
  • Place chicken thighs on top
  • Coat chicken with remaining spice mix
  • Roast until chicken is golden and crispy
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges

15. Hawaiian Chicken Paradise

Hawaiian Chicken Paradise

Ingredients (per serving):

    2 chicken thighs ($3.75)
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks ($2.25)
  • 1 red bell pepper ($1.00)
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk ($0.75)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce ($0.25)
  • Fresh cilantro ($0.40)
  • Green onions ($0.30)

Total Estimated Cost: $8.70 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Beginner-Friendly
  • Oven Temperature: 425°F (218°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Cut pineapple and bell pepper into similar-sized chunks
  • Pat chicken thighs dry
  • Whisk coconut milk with soy sauce
  • Toss vegetables with olive oil
  • Spread pineapple and peppers on sheet pan
  • Place chicken thighs on top
  • Brush chicken with coconut-soy glaze
  • Roast until chicken is golden and caramelized
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions

16. Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Fine dining vibes that’ll make you feel like a culinary rockstar!

Ingredients (per serving):

    2 lamb loin chops ($8.50)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes ($1.75)
  • 1 red onion ($0.75)
  • Fresh mint ($0.50)
  • 2 tablespoons za’atar spice ($0.60)
  • Lemon ($0.30)

Total Estimated Cost: $12.40 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Intermediate
  • Oven Temperature: 400°F (204°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Slice red onion into wedges
  • Halve cherry tomatoes
  • Pat lamb chops dry
  • Mix za’atar with olive oil
  • Spread tomatoes and onions on sheet pan
  • Place lamb chops on top of vegetables
  • Coat lamb with za’atar mixture
  • Roast until lamb reaches desired doneness
  • Finish with fresh mint and lemon zest

17. Sesame Ginger Tofu and Vegetables

Sesame Ginger Tofu and Vegetables

Plant-based perfection that’ll make even meat lovers swoon!

Ingredients (per serving):

    1 block extra firm tofu ($2.50)
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables ($2.00)
  • 3 tablespoons sesame oil ($0.75)
  • 2 tablespoons ginger ($0.50)
  • Sesame seeds ($0.25)
  • Green onions ($0.30)

Total Estimated Cost: $6.30 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Beginner
  • Oven Temperature: 425°F (218°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Press tofu to remove excess moisture
  • Cut tofu and vegetables into uniform cubes
  • Mince fresh ginger
  • Whisk sesame oil with ginger
  • Toss vegetables with half the sauce
  • Spread vegetables on sheet pan
  • Place tofu cubes on top
  • Brush tofu with remaining sauce
  • Roast until tofu is crispy
  • Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions

18. Cajun Shrimp and Corn

Cajun Shrimp and Corn

Spicy southern comfort that’ll kick your taste buds into high gear!

Ingredients (per serving):

    12 large shrimp ($6.25)
  • 2 ears of corn ($1.50)
  • 1 bell pepper ($1.00)
  • 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning ($0.40)
  • Fresh parsley ($0.35)
  • Lime ($0.25)

Total Estimated Cost: $9.75 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Oven Temperature: 415°F (213°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Cut corn into rounds
  • Slice bell pepper into strips
  • Pat shrimp dry
  • Mix cajun seasoning with olive oil
  • Spread corn and peppers on sheet pan
  • Arrange shrimp on top of vegetables
  • Coat everything with cajun mixture
  • Roast until shrimp turn pink
  • Garnish with fresh parsley
  • Finish with lime squeeze

19. Honey Sriracha Chicken Wings

Honey Sriracha Chicken Wings

Ingredients (per serving):

    8 chicken wings ($4.50)
  • 3 tablespoons sriracha ($0.50)
  • 2 tablespoons honey ($0.35)
  • Green onions ($0.25)
  • Sesame seeds ($0.20)

Total Estimated Cost: $5.80 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Super Easy
  • Oven Temperature: 425°F (218°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Pat chicken wings dry
  • Whisk sriracha with honey
  • Place wings on sheet pan
  • Brush wings with honey-sriracha mix
  • Roast until wings are crispy
  • Flip halfway through cooking
  • Garnish with green onions
  • Sprinkle with sesame seeds

20. Spanish Chorizo and Potatoes

Spanish Chorizo and Potatoes

Ingredients (per serving):

    4 oz Spanish chorizo ($3.75)
  • 2 large potatoes ($1.25)
  • 1 red bell pepper ($1.00)
  • Fresh rosemary ($0.40)
  • Smoked paprika ($0.25)
  • Red wine vinegar ($0.20)

Total Estimated Cost: $6.85 per serving

Prep and Cook Details:

    Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Intermediate
  • Oven Temperature: 400°F (204°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Cube potatoes into similar-sized pieces
  • Slice chorizo and bell peppers
  • Toss potatoes with olive oil and paprika
  • Spread potatoes on sheet pan
  • Arrange chorizo and peppers on top
  • Drizzle with red wine vinegar
  • Roast until potatoes are crispy
  • Garnish with fresh rosemary
  • Finish with additional smoked paprika

Conclusion

As we gaze fondly at the remnants of our hearty sheet pan suppers.

Perhaps a few crispy bits of baked ziti or the last morsels of herbed chicken and roasted potatoes we can rejoice in a meal made with minimal fuss yet maximum satisfaction.

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