3 ONE PAN MEALS YOU'LL ACTUALLY WANT TO MAKE EVERY NIGHT

3 ONE PAN MEALS YOU'LL ACTUALLY WANT TO MAKE EVERY NIGHT is a medium American recipe that serves 4. 520 calories per serving. Recipe by SAM THE COOKING GUY on YouTube.

Prep: 40 min | Cook: 2 hrs 55 min | Total: 4 hrs 5 min

Cost: $45.72 total, $11.43 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 lb Chuck Roast (well‑marbled, cut into 1½‑inch cubes)
  • 1 lb Potatoes (Yukon Gold, diced)
  • 2 Carrots (large, diced)
  • 3 Onion (large for beef stew, small for shrimp orzo, medium for chicken rice; diced)
  • 10 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
  • 4 cup Beef Broth (low‑sodium)
  • 1 cup Red Wine (optional; use extra broth if omitted)
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 2 tsp Black Pepper (plus extra for finishing)
  • 1 tsp Dried Thyme
  • 2 tbsp Cornstarch (mixed with equal water to form slurry)
  • 4 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped; divided between dishes)
  • 2 tbsp Beef Tallow (or use neutral oil)
  • 1 lb Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta
  • 1 14.5 oz can Canned Diced Tomatoes
  • 4 cup Chicken Broth (2 cups for shrimp dish, 2 cups for chicken rice)
  • 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (adjust to heat preference)
  • 4 tbsp Lemon Juice (divided between shrimp and chicken dishes)
  • 4 tbsp Olive Oil (2 tbsp for shrimp, 2 tbsp for chicken rice)
  • 4 Bone‑In Skin‑On Chicken Thighs (about 2 lb total)
  • 1 cup Long‑Grain Rice
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Dill (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Prep Beef

    Trim excess fat from the chuck roast, cut into 1½‑inch cubes, and set aside.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Sear Beef (First Batch)

    Heat 1 tbsp beef tallow in the cast‑iron skillet over medium‑high heat. Add half the beef cubes in a single layer; do not crowd. Sear without moving for 2‑3 minutes, then turn to brown all sides. Remove to a plate.

    Time: PT7M

  3. Sear Beef (Second Batch)

    Add another tbsp tallow, repeat searing with the remaining beef cubes. Transfer all seared beef to the plate.

    Time: PT7M

  4. Sauté Vegetables

    In the same skillet, add a splash of oil if needed, then add diced onion, carrots, and potatoes. Cook 3‑4 minutes until they begin to soften.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Add Garlic & Tomato Paste

    Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and toast for another minute to deepen flavor.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Deglaze & Simmer Beef Stew

    Pour in beef broth and red wine, scraping up browned bits. Add kosher salt, pepper, extra pepper, and dried thyme. Return all beef pieces with any juices to the pan. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower to a simmer, cover, and cook 1 hour 30 minutes until beef is fork‑tender and potatoes are soft.

    Time: PT1H30M

  7. Thicken Stew (Optional)

    Mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the hot stew a little at a time until desired thickness is reached.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Finish Beef Stew

    Stir in chopped fresh parsley, adjust seasoning, and keep warm.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Prep Shrimp‑Orzo Ingredients

    Dice a small onion, mince garlic, and chop parsley. Rinse shrimp and pat dry.

    Time: PT5M

  10. Sauté Onion & Garlic for Shrimp‑Orzo

    Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet (after removing beef stew if needed). Sauté onion 2‑3 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 1 minute.

    Time: PT4M

  11. Toast Orzo

    Add 1 cup orzo to the pan, stirring for 1 minute to lightly toast.

    Time: PT1M

  12. Add Liquids & Simmer

    Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) and 2 cups chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered 10 minutes, stirring gently every few minutes.

    Time: PT10M

  13. Cook Shrimp

    Add the shrimp, ensuring they are submerged. Cook 3‑4 minutes until pink and opaque.

    Time: PT4M

  14. Finish Shrimp‑Orzo

    Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir in chopped parsley and remove from heat.

    Time: PT3M

  15. Prep Chicken & Rice Ingredients

    Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Dice a medium onion and mince garlic. Zest and juice a lemon. Chop parsley and dill.

    Time: PT7M

  16. Brown Chicken Thighs

    Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet, heat over medium‑high. Place chicken thighs skin‑side down, cook 4‑5 minutes until skin is golden, then flip and brown the other side 3‑4 minutes. Remove and set aside.

    Time: PT9M

  17. Sauté Onion & Garlic

    In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, sauté onion 2‑3 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook 1 minute.

    Time: PT4M

  18. Toast Rice

    Add 1 cup long‑grain rice, stir to coat with oil, and toast for 2 minutes.

    Time: PT2M

  19. Add Broth & Lemon

    Pour in 2 cups chicken broth, add lemon zest and juice, and season with additional salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.

    Time: PT3M

  20. Simmer Chicken & Rice

    Return the browned chicken thighs to the pan, skin side up. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 20‑25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 175‑183°F.

    Time: PT25M

  21. Finish Chicken & Rice

    Remove chicken temporarily, stir in chopped parsley and dill, then return chicken to the pan. Drizzle a little extra‑virgin olive oil, add a final pinch of pepper, and serve.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
520
Protein
30 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
20 g
Fiber
5 g

Dietary info: Gluten‑Containing, Dairy‑Free, Nut‑Free

Allergens: Shellfish, Wheat

Last updated: April 13, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

3 ONE PAN MEALS YOU'LL ACTUALLY WANT TO MAKE EVERY NIGHT

Recipe by SAM THE COOKING GUY

A collection of three ridiculously good one‑pot meals that use a single 12‑inch cast‑iron skillet. Learn how to make a hearty beef and potato stew, a bright shrimp‑orzo dish, and a comforting chicken‑and‑rice dinner with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

MediumAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
44m
Prep
2h 46m
Cook
25m
Cleanup
3h 55m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$45.72
Total cost
$11.43
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Searing the beef in two batches to maintain high pan temperature.
  • Toasting the orzo and rice before adding liquid for flavor and texture.
  • Ensuring shrimp are fully submerged and cooked just until pink.
  • Checking chicken thigh internal temperature (175‑183°F) for safety.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot oil and the cast‑iron skillet with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Use an instant‑read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches at least 175°F.
  • Be careful when slicing raw beef; keep a clean cutting board separate from produce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of beef stew in American comfort cuisine?

A

Beef stew has long been a staple of American home cooking, especially in colder regions where hearty, one‑pot meals provide warmth and nourishment. It evolved from European pot‑roasts and became a family‑friendly dish served at gatherings and holidays.

cultural
Q

What traditional regional variations of shrimp orzo exist in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

In Mediterranean cooking, orzo is often paired with seafood, tomatoes, and olives, similar to Greek orzo with shrimp. Variations may include feta cheese, fresh herbs like oregano, or a splash of white wine instead of chicken broth.

cultural
Q

How is chicken and rice traditionally served in Southern United States cuisine?

A

Southern chicken‑and‑rice dishes, sometimes called "chicken pilaf," are typically cooked in a single pot with aromatics, broth, and often finished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, much like Sam the Cooking Guy’s version.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is beef stew traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Beef stew is commonly served at family reunions, pot‑luck gatherings, and winter holidays such as Thanksgiving leftovers or New Year’s comfort meals, because it feeds a crowd and can be made ahead.

cultural
Q

What makes the one‑pot approach special in American home cooking?

A

One‑pot meals reduce dishwashing, streamline cooking steps, and allow flavors to meld in a single vessel, which aligns with the busy‑lifestyle focus of many American households.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the beef stew in Sam the Cooking Guy’s recipe?

A

Common errors include overcrowding the pan when searing (which steams instead of browns), not deglazing the pan, and skipping the cornstarch slurry if a thicker broth is desired. Also, avoid over‑cooking the shrimp in the orzo dish.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe toast the orzo and rice before adding liquid?

A

Toasting releases a nutty aroma and creates a protective coating that helps the grains stay separate, preventing a mushy texture once the liquid is added.

technical
Q

Can I make the beef stew ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the stew tastes even better after chilling. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Sam the Cooking Guy specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Sam the Cooking Guy focuses on approachable, high‑energy cooking tutorials that emphasize bold flavors, one‑pot meals, and practical tips for home cooks, often with a humorous, personable style.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Sam the Cooking Guy's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?

A

Sam the Cooking Guy blends street‑food swagger with classic comfort dishes, using straightforward techniques, minimal equipment, and a focus on flavor over perfection, setting his style apart from more formal or technique‑heavy channels.

channel
Q

What other American comfort recipes is the YouTube channel Sam the Cooking Guy known for?

A

Sam the Cooking Guy is known for recipes like his famous mac and cheese, loaded baked potatoes, and a variety of one‑pot pasta and skillet meals that emphasize big taste with simple steps.

general

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

The Weeknight Roast Chicken Dinner You'll ACTUALLY Make
8

The Weeknight Roast Chicken Dinner You'll ACTUALLY Make

A simple, low‑mess dinner using four chicken leg quarters and two sheet trays. The chicken is slow‑roasted at 300°F to render the fat, then finished at high heat for crispy skin while a medley of onions, carrots, potatoes, and fennel roast alongside. A quick roux‑based pan sauce made from the fond ties everything together.

2 hrs 47 minServes 4$15
American
How to Make a One Pan Dumpling Bake (Easy Weeknight Meal!)
7

How to Make a One Pan Dumpling Bake (Easy Weeknight Meal!)

A simple, flavorful one‑pan dinner featuring frozen chicken‑and‑vegetable pot stickers baked in a creamy coconut Thai red curry sauce with bok choy, scallions, and sesame seeds. Perfect for busy weeknights and served over rice.

55 minServes 4$12
Asian Fusion
ONE PAN HIGH PROTEIN MEALS (I Make On Repeat)
4

ONE PAN HIGH PROTEIN MEALS (I Make On Repeat)

A high‑protein, vegetable‑loaded frittata made in a single non‑stick ceramic pan. Perfect for a nutritious breakfast or brunch, this dish combines whole eggs, liquid egg whites, cottage cheese, zucchini, tomatoes, and feta for a fluffy, flavorful result that delivers about 30 g of protein per serving.

55 minServes 2$7
American
Thick Fluffy Protein Pancakes that actually taste good!! Using Good Culture Cottage Cheese!
4

Thick Fluffy Protein Pancakes that actually taste good!! Using Good Culture Cottage Cheese!

These thick, fluffy pancakes are packed with protein thanks to rolled oats and creamy cottage cheese. No protein powder needed—just blend oats into flour, mix with cottage cheese, eggs, a touch of sweetener and vanilla, and cook a quick stack. Top with whipped cream, blueberries, and pumpkin seeds for extra indulgence.

25 minServes 4$12
American
Super Easy Week Night Recipe - Sheet Pan Crunch Wrap Supreme
5

Super Easy Week Night Recipe - Sheet Pan Crunch Wrap Supreme

A super‑easy, baked version of the fast‑food favorite Crunchwrap Supreme. Ground beef, nacho cheese, tostada shells and fresh toppings are layered between tortillas, brushed with butter, and baked on a sheet pan until golden and crispy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd‑pleasing snack.

1 hr 25 minServes 4$14
Tex-Mex
Want Delicious High Protein Meals? Try This Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls
4

Want Delicious High Protein Meals? Try This Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls

A flavorful, high‑protein Korean BBQ chicken rice bowl packed with marinated chicken thighs, spicy cucumber salad, and fluffy rice. Only 485 calories per serving, perfect for meal‑prepping the week ahead.

1 hr 10 minServes 4$7
Korean
Pancake Spaghetti Actually Exists!
2

Pancake Spaghetti Actually Exists!

A playful Turkish-inspired dish that turns classic pancake batter into spaghetti‑like strands, cooked on a skillet and finished with sweet toppings. Perfect for a fun breakfast, snack, or novelty dessert.

37 minServes 2$3
Turkish
3 Tomato Chutneys to Elevate your Meals I 3 टमाटर चटनी I Pankaj Bhadouria
3

3 Tomato Chutneys to Elevate your Meals I 3 टमाटर चटनी I Pankaj Bhadouria

Learn how to make three distinct tomato chutneys that pair perfectly with parathas, pakoras, chips, or dal‑rice. The spicy Rajasthani Chili Garlic Chutney, the sweet‑tangy Bengali Tomato Chutney, and the fresh salsa‑style Hyderabadi Kachumber Chutney are all prepared in one session and stored in glass bottles for up to two weeks.

3 hrs 21 minServes 6$10
Indian