Quick and Easy Sheet-Pan Dinner: A Time-Saver for Busy Cooks

Introduction

Sheet-pan dinners are a delicious way to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort, making them perfect for busy home cooks.

Recipe Details

Yield: 4 servings
Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

– 1.5 lbs protein (choose from chicken thighs, salmon, sausage, or tofu)
– 3 cups assorted vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, zucchini)
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 tsp dried herbs (e.g., oregano, thyme)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional add-ins: 2 medium potatoes (cubed), 1 bell pepper (sliced), or 1 can chickpeas (drained)

Equipment

– 1 rimmed baking sheet
– Parchment paper or aluminum foil
– Oven rack in the middle position
– Oven temperature: 400–425°F

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. Prepare and cut vegetables into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
3. Pat protein dry with a paper towel and season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs.
4. Arrange protein on one side of the baking sheet and vegetables on the other.
5. Toss vegetables with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and additional seasonings.
6. For starchy vegetables like potatoes, parboil them for 5 minutes before adding to the sheet pan.
7. Ensure everything is spaced in a single layer to promote browning.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until proteins reach their recommended internal temperatures (e.g., 165°F for chicken, 145°F for salmon).
9. For crispy finishing, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if desired.

Additional Tips

To prevent soggy vegetables, maintain high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan. Adjust cook times according to the protein you choose and how many servings you are preparing. Make ahead by prepping ingredients a day prior, and reheat on a baking sheet in the oven for best results.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with cooked grains, a fresh salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal. Nutritional estimate: approx. 400 calories per serving.