Are you tired of cooking a separate protein and side dish for every meal? Look no further! Cast iron skillets are perfect for one-pan wonders that can be ready in no time. In this article, we’re sharing 20 flavorful and healthy cast iron skillet recipes to fuel your daily meals from breakfast to dinner.
From savory dishes like Garlic Herb Chicken with Roasted Vegetables and Spicy Shrimp and Zucchini Stir-Fry, to sweet treats like Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Skillet and Berry and Almond Quinoa Breakfast Bake, we’ve got a recipe for every craving. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting or light and refreshing, these cast iron skillet recipes are sure to satisfy.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these mouth-watering recipes and share our top tips and tricks for cooking them to perfection. So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking up a storm with your trusty cast iron skillet!
Garlic Herb Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of garlic and herbs with the simplicity of roasted vegetables. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the garlic-herb mixture.
4. Roast the sweet potato, carrot, and red bell pepper on a separate baking sheet for 30 minutes, or until tender.
5. Place the chicken in the oven and roast for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve the chicken with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quinoa and Black Bean Skillet with Avocado
This hearty skillet meal combines protein-rich black beans with nutty quinoa and creamy avocado, all wrapped up in a flavorful package. It’s a quick and easy option for a weeknight dinner that’s packed with fiber and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cumin and black beans; stir to combine.
4. Stir in the cooked quinoa and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Divide the mixture among bowls and top each with sliced avocado.
6. Serve with a squeeze of lime juice and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus
Elevate your dinner game with this quick and flavorful one-pan wonder, featuring succulent salmon fillets, tender asparagus, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large skillet or sauté pan with parchment paper.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Add olive oil to the prepared pan, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Arrange asparagus in a single layer, followed by salmon fillets.
6. Pour lemon juice over the top, making sure fish is coated.
7. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and asparagus is tender.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sweet Potato and Kale Hash with Eggs
This hearty breakfast or brunch dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of kale, topped with a fried egg for added richness. Perfect for a cozy morning meal or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped kale and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Crack eggs into the skillet with the kale and scramble to desired doneness.
5. To assemble, place roasted sweet potatoes on a plate, top with kale and egg mixture, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Skillet
This flavorful skillet recipe combines the creamy richness of chickpeas with the nutty sweetness of spinach, all tied together with a hint of Mediterranean spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, juiced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the fresh spinach leaves and stir until wilted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Shrimp and Zucchini Stir-Fry
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with tender zucchini and a kick of spice, making it a quick and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this spicy stir-fry in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the zucchini slices and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
6. Add the sauce to the skillet with the zucchini and stir-fry for 1 minute.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir-fry for another minute, until well combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Turkey and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines lean turkey with a medley of colorful vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine turkey, rice, frozen vegetables, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky flavor of bacon, all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads for extra crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together balsamic vinegar and crumbled bacon in a small bowl.
5. Remove Brussels sprouts from oven and toss with balsamic glaze.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cauliflower Rice and Chicken Stir-Fry
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional stir-fries, substituting cauliflower “rice” for grains. With its nutty flavor and crunchy texture, this dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Add chicken, olive oil, onion, garlic, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet. Cook 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add cauliflower “rice” to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Vegan Lentil and Mushroom Skillet
This hearty skillet dish is a perfect blend of plant-based goodness, packed with protein-rich lentils, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic spices. Whip up this vegan delight in under 30 minutes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, water or broth, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Stuffed Eggplant with Feta
Experience the flavors of Greece with this delicious and easy-to-make stuffed eggplant dish, featuring salty feta cheese and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix feta cheese, parsley, dill, and garlic.
4. Stuff each eggplant slice with the feta mixture, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Place stuffed eggplants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until eggplants are tender and filling is golden brown.
7. Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the classic Italian flavors of pesto and cherry tomatoes with succulent chicken, creating a deliciously simple dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and olive oil.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Brush the pesto mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss cherry tomatoes with salt, pepper, and a pinch of olive oil. Spread them around the chicken during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and refreshing combination of blackened tilapia and sweet mango salsa. This dish is perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush both sides of tilapia fillets with olive oil and season with the spice mixture.
4. Cook tilapia in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare Mango Salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl.
6. Serve blackened tilapia with mango salsa on top.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ratatouille with Fresh Herbs
This classic Provençal dish gets a fresh twist with the addition of fragrant herbs, perfect for warm-weather cooking. A hearty and flavorful vegetable stew that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss eggplant slices with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers, garlic, tomatoes, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in roasted eggplant and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Ginger
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor. With the addition of fresh ginger, this recipe adds an extra layer of warmth and depth to the classic beef and broccoli combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the ginger and garlic to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the broccoli to the pan and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan and add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Moroccan-Spiced Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew
This hearty stew combines the comforting flavors of sweet potatoes and chickpeas with the exotic spices of Morocco, creating a dish that’s both nourishing and delightful.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sweet potatoes, chickpeas, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Garlic Butter Scallops with Spinach
This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the savory flavors of garlic butter and wilted spinach, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the saucepan and stir until melted.
4. Add the spinach leaves to the saucepan and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Cook in a hot skillet with oil or butter for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve the scallops on top of the garlic butter spinach.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry with Tofu
This creamy and aromatic curry is a staple of Thai cuisine, with the added bonus of protein-rich tofu making it a great vegetarian option. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
6. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
7. Return tofu to the pan and season with fish sauce (if using).
8. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
9. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Skillet
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of oatmeal, infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. This easy-to-make skillet recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 large apple, diced (about 2 cups)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Optional: sugar to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large oven-safe skillet, combine oats, water or milk, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Add butter, diced apple, and cinnamon. Stir until the apples are tender and the oats are cooked to your liking.
4. Taste and add sugar if desired.
5. Serve hot, topped with additional cinnamon or chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Berry and Almond Quinoa Breakfast Bake
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast bake packed with quinoa, sweet berries, and crunchy almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, mixed berries, sliced almonds, honey, olive oil, salt, and vanilla extract.
3. Crack in the eggs and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional berries if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of cast iron skillets with these 20 flavorful and healthy recipes for every meal. From breakfast to dinner, these one-pot wonders are sure to please. Recipes include Garlic Herb Chicken with Roasted Vegetables, Quinoa and Black Bean Skillet with Avocado, Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Skillet, and many more. Whether you’re in the mood for protein-packed meals or sweet treats like Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Skillet, there’s something for everyone in this collection of healthy cast iron skillet recipes.
