21 Easy Sheet Pan Dinners That You Need To Try
Sheet pan dinners are recipes that you can easily make in a sheet pan, in short, quick, delicious, and hassle-free meals. Along with the amazing taste, this dish also has the advantage of very little prep and easy cleanup. That’s why I have discussed some easy and delicious sheet pan dinners that you can easily make at home with very simple and minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love Sheet Pan Dinners
Sheet pan dinners are a game-changer! They are easy, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s why you’ll love them:
Ultimate Convenience
One pan, one meal! No extra pots or pans needed.
Minimal Cleanup
Less mess, less stress! One pan means easy cleanup.
Healthy & Balanced
Cook protein, veggies, and carbs all at once.
Versatile & Customizable
Adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs.
Time-Saving
Prep in minutes and let the oven do the work!
Deliciously Roasted
Caramelized veggies and juicy proteins every time.
Best Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Dinners
1. Choose the Right Sheet Pan
Use a heavy-duty, rimmed baking sheet to prevent warping and ensure even cooking.
2. Avoid Overcrowding the Pan
Spread ingredients evenly. If the pan is overcrowded, food will steam instead of roast.
3. Cut Ingredients Evenly
Chop vegetables into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly. Root veggies take longer, so cut them smaller.
4. Use a High Enough Temperature
The best sheet pan dinners roast well at 400-425°F (200-220°C) for crispy, caramelized flavors.
5. Season in Layers
Coat ingredients with oil and spices before roasting, then finish with fresh herbs, lemon juice, or cheese.
6. Line the Pan for Easy Cleanup
Use parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and simplify cleaning.
7. Stir or Flip for Even Cooking
Halfway through baking, turn meats and toss veggies to get that perfect golden-brown roast.
8. Finish with a Flavor Boost
Add a final touch like balsamic glaze, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of garlic butter for enhanced taste.
Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggies
This Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken & Veggies recipe is great for a sheet pan dinner and is perfect for a weeknight meal. The main goal of this recipe is to reduce prep and cleanup and maximize flavor. Chicken thighs, potatoes, broccoli, and carrots are roasted in a garlicky parmesan-infused oil. The recipe is super easy.
You can substitute cauliflower, green beans, or asparagus for the broccoli if you like. Sausage, shrimp, or even tofu can also be used in place of the chicken in this recipe. Serve this recipe with rice, quinoa, or couscous and a salad for a complete meal.
Lemon Dill Salmon
Salmon fillets are fried with green beans and baby potatoes, and flavored with lemon, garlic, and fresh dill. The salmon is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, dill, garlic, and olive oil. Veggies like asparagus, broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, red onion wedges, or baby potatoes are roasted in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Finally, arrange everything on a large sheet pan and bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes.
You can also add sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives if you like. Serve the salmon and vegetable tacos in warm tortillas. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary on top, if desired.
Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas
A delicious, restaurant-style fajita mix made with sliced steak, bell peppers, and onions, all seasoned with a smoky spice blend. Serve with warm tortillas and guacamole. The main concept of this recipe is simple: toss sliced steak, bell peppers, and onions with a homemade spice blend and bake everything on a single sheet pan. The steak and vegetables are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, and a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper so that the steak and vegetables can properly absorb the flavors. Then the oven does the rest.
You can use chicken, shrimp, or even tofu instead of steak here. You can use orange juice instead of lime juice here for a slightly different flavor. You can serve this fajita beautifully on warm tortillas with a topping of guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and shredded cheese. You can also serve it with lettuce or cauliflower rice for a very low-carb option.
Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken and Potatoes
This recipe shows you how easy and delicious sheet pan cooking can be. Here, chicken and vegetables are roasted together with lemon, garlic, and herbs. Another key part of this recipe is the marinade, which is made with a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and salt and pepper.
You can experiment with different veggies like asparagus, bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini if you want. You can serve this sheet pan lemon chicken and vegetables as a complete meal with a simple green salad garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Roasted Veggies
Tender pork chops, roasted with potatoes, asparagus, and garlic butter, make for a rich, satisfying meal. This one-pot meal solution is easy to make and is made with a few wholesome ingredients. Here, bone-in pork chops and some colorful veggies combine to create a wonderfully flavorful and balanced meal that's perfect for your busiest weekend. The combination of juicy and tender pork chops with crunchy veggies like potatoes, carrots, and onions with olive oil, herbs, and spices gives it a different dimension.
You can add sliced apples or pears for the last 15 minutes. You can also marinate the pork chops in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and ginger before roasting, which will enhance their flavor. You can serve it wonderfully with a simple green salad and light yogurt sauce.
Honey Mustard Sheet Pan Chicken with Brussels Sprouts
Tender chicken thighs with Brussels sprouts and red onions, all drizzled with a sweet and sour honey mustard glaze. Here's a great recipe made with bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces that will make you fall in love with the flavor. Also, it has a wonderful glaze (Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic, and a touch of apple cider vinegar) that takes its flavor to another level. This recipe also includes potatoes and broccoli florets, which roast alongside the chicken, absorbing the glaze and becoming tender and slightly crispy.
This dish is excellent on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad for a lighter meal. If you have any leftovers from this dish, you can serve them as a meal prep for sandwiches, salads, or grain bowls.
Sheet Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Potatoes
Juicy Italian sausage links, bell peppers, and small potatoes roasted with garlic and herbs, for an easy, comforting dinner. In a single sheet pan, you can make this wonderful and flavorful meal by combining sausage (Italian chicken sausage), potatoes (Yellow potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces), and Peppers and Onions. Also, there are some spices you need.
You can use kielbasa, chorizo, or any other preferred sausage here instead of chicken sausage. Also, feel free to add your favorite veggies like broccoli florets, carrots, or zucchini. Although this recipe uses yellow potatoes, you can also use red potatoes or sweet potatoes. You can easily serve this with rice or quinoa, but it is great with a green salad.
Sheet Pan Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken
Don't be surprised by this 15-minute chicken recipe. This Asian-inspired dish combines chicken breast, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and a rich teriyaki sauce to create a sweet and savory dish. In this recipe, bite-sized chicken pieces are first tossed in a marinade of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sesame oil. Then, they are spread evenly in a large sheet pan and topped with pineapple chunks. Then, they are cooked in the oven, which takes about 15 minutes.
You can use shrimp, tofu, or any other protein option in place of the chicken in this same recipe. You can serve it with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal. This teriyaki chicken is also a great option as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Sheet Pan Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus
Juicy shrimp and asparagus are sauteed to perfection in a buttery garlic lemon sauce. This amazing sheet pan dinner recipe, with its combination of fresh asparagus, juicy shrimp, and vibrant lemon-butter-garlic sauce, takes 20-22 minutes to make. However, you can add your favorite veggies like broccoli florets, green beans, or bell peppers, or use asparagus instead.
Chicken tenderloins or scallops work beautifully in place of shrimp. I personally like a little cheesy flavor, so you can sprinkle Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes. You can use this recipe as a filling for tacos or wraps. However, this Sheet Pan Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus pairs well with pasta, linguine, or fettuccine.
Italian Ground Turkey Meatball Sheet Pan Dinner
Roasted vegetable medley with turkey meatballs can make your dinner memorable. Here, juicy turkey meatballs are served with roasted zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and carrots, served with marinara sauce or tzatziki. Although beef meatballs are traditionally used, turkey is used as a lighter alternative. The meatballs are made with ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs.
You can also use broccoli, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes here if you like. You can sprinkle mozzarella or feta cheese on top during the last few minutes of roasting. This is a perfect choice for a low-carb meal.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Sheet pan dinners are already packed with flavor, but pairing them with the right sides and extras can make your meal even better. Here are some easy and delicious serving suggestions to complete your one-pan meal.
Grains and Starches
Adding a grain or starch will make your meal more filling and balanced:
- Rice: White rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.
- Quinoa: A protein-rich, nutty-flavored alternative.
- Couscous: Light, fluffy, and goes well with Mediterranean-inspired sheet pan meals.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy and comforting, perfect with grilled meats.
- Polenta: A delicious pairing for grilled vegetables and meats.
- Crusty bread: Soaks up all the delicious juices and sauces from your meal.
Fresh and crunchy salad
Topping your sheet pan dinner with a fresh salad keeps the richness of the grilled ingredients:
- Greek salad – cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, feta, and olives with a lemon dressing.
- Caesar Salad – A classic choice with crunchy romaine and Parmesan cheese.
- Coleslaw – A tangy and chicken-like salad compared to rich or spicy dishes.
- Arugula and Parmesan Salad – Light, peppery, and pairs well with seafood or chicken.
- Spinach and Berry Salad – A refreshing mix of greens and fruit.
Sauces and Dips
A good sauce can take your pan food to the next level:
- Garlic Butter Sauce – Perfect drizzled over roasted chicken, shrimp, or steak.
- Tzatziki Sauce – A cold, creamy yogurt-based sauce that pairs well with Mediterranean flavors.
- Chimichurri Sauce – An herbaceous, tangy sauce that pairs great with steak and grilled meats.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo – A fun dip for shrimp, tofu, or chicken.
- Honey Mustard Sauce – Ideal for chicken or roast pork.
Low Carb and Keto Options
For those watching their carb intake, here are some great low-carb pairings:
- Cauliflower Rice – A light alternative to rice.
- Zucchini Noodles (“Zoodles”) – Great with teriyaki or Asian-inspired sheet pan dishes.
- Riced Broccoli – A nutritious, low-carb swap for traditional grains.
- Avocado Slices – A creamy and filling side that goes with almost anything.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Sheet pan dinners are great for meal prep! Here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Frozen: Many sheet pan meals can be frozen for up to 3 months. Refrigerate individual portions for easy reheating.
- Reheat:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes for best texture.
- Air Fryer: Preheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to crisp up vegetables and meat.
- Microwave: Use low heat to prevent overcooking.
FAQ
Can I use any type of sheet pan for these recipes?
Yes, you can! However, a sheet pan with a heavy-duty rim works best to prevent warping and to ensure all ingredients are roasted evenly. Choose a pan that is at least 18 inches long so that the food is evenly roasted.
Can I make these meals in advance?
Sure! You can chop the vegetables, marinate the meat, or season your ingredients the night before. Refrigerate everything, and when it’s time to cook, just throw everything in the sheet pan and bake!
Can I make a sheet pan dinner with frozen ingredients?
Yes, but be aware of the cooking time. Frozen vegetables and proteins may take a little longer to cook than fresh ingredients. Also, thawing the ingredients (like chicken or shrimp) before cooking can help ensure even cooking.
Can I swap out the vegetables or proteins in these recipes?
Sure! Sheet pan dinners are incredibly versatile. Feel free to change up the vegetables depending on what you have on hand, or switch up the protein (e.g., use chicken instead of beef, or tofu instead of shrimp). Adjust the cooking time depending on the size and type of ingredients.
How do I prevent my sheet pan dishes from sticking?
To prevent sticking, line your sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. You can also lightly grease the pan or use non-stick spray. This will also make cleanup much easier!
Can I cook multiple sheet pans at once?
Yes! If your oven has multiple racks, you can cook multiple sheet pans at the same time. Rotate the pans halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the heat distribution in your oven.
What should I do if my sheet pan dinner isn’t crispy enough?
For crispy results, make sure your ingredients are spread out in a single layer and not overcrowded. Overcrowded food traps steam, which can cause the food to become soggy. If you’re cooking vegetables, you can sauté them for the last few minutes to get that crispy texture!
How do I reheat leftovers from a sheet pan dinner?
Reheat leftovers from a sheet pan dinner in the oven to maintain the crispy texture. Cover the food with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. For faster reheating, you can use the microwave, but it may not have the same crispy texture.
Can leftovers from a sheet pan be refrigerated?
Yes, many sheet pan dinners freeze well! Make sure everything is completely cool before storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for best results.
What are some other spicy ideas for sheet pan dinners?
Don’t hesitate to get creative with the spices! Some popular options include:
- Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Cumin, chili powder, and cilantro for a Tex-Mex flavor.
- Curry powder, turmeric, and cinnamon for an Indian flavor.
- Lemon zest, rosemary, and thyme for a fresh, herbal flavor.