Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, only to be left with a sink full of dishes? Look no further! Tray bakes are the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without the hassle. These easy-to-make recipes allow you to toss all your ingredients onto one tray and let the oven do the work. From classic comfort food to international flavors, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering tray bake recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Tray Bake
A deliciously simple and satisfying one-tray wonder that combines the flavors of roasted chicken, garlic butter, and crispy potatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 6 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic.
4. Arrange potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
5. Place the chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
6. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
7. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Vegetable and Feta Tray Bake
A flavorful and healthy tray bake filled with Mediterranean-inspired vegetables and crumbly feta cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 block feta cheese (about 8 ounces), crumbled
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together sweet potato, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a large baking tray or sheet pan.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the vegetables are lightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Mustard Salmon with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe combines the sweetness of honey mustard with the savory flavor of salmon, paired with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and mustard.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey mustard mixture evenly over each fillet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the sweet potato, bell pepper, and zucchini. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Place salmon in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve salmon with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Tray Bake
Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Tray Bake: A flavorful and satisfying one-pan meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 spicy sausages (such as chorizo or pepperoni)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
3. Place the sweet potatoes, red onion, and garlic on the prepared tray. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Insert the spicy sausages into the potato mixture, making sure they’re not touching each other.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the sausages are cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken with Asparagus
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing recipe that combines the flavors of lemon, herbs, and asparagus with succulent chicken. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon mixture.
4. Roast the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve the chicken with roasted asparagus and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Corn Tray Bake
Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, this tray bake combines the flavors of smoky BBQ chicken with sweet corn and crispy vegetables. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the chicken mixture on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Arrange corn kernels, bell peppers, and onion slices around the chicken.
5. Drizzle BBQ sauce evenly over the vegetables.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chickpea and Vegetable Bake
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the warmth of Moroccan spices with the comfort of roasted vegetables and chickpeas. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together chickpeas, sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, zucchini, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and mix again.
4. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Bacon and Egg Breakfast Tray Bake
Start your day off right with this hearty breakfast tray bake, loaded with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 slices of bacon
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
3. Cook the bacon in a pan until crispy, then chop into small pieces. Set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the cooked bacon, peas and carrots, and shredded cheese evenly over the eggs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon and Broccoli Tray Bake
This Asian-inspired tray bake is a quick and easy way to cook salmon and broccoli with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 bunches of broccoli, trimmed
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on one half of the tray, leaving a small border around each fish.
4. Toss the broccoli with olive oil, ginger, salt, and pepper, and spread it out on the other half of the tray.
5. Drizzle teriyaki sauce over the salmon.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek Lamb and Potato Tray Bake
A hearty and flavorful tray bake that combines tender lamb with crispy potatoes, all infused with the bold flavors of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck fillet, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss lamb with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Arrange potatoes in a single layer on a large baking tray or sheet pan.
4. Add the lamb pieces on top of the potatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and lamb is cooked through.
7. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) over the top and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Cherry Tomato Bake
A flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the richness of pesto with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the tenderness of chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and chicken until coated.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Top the chicken with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Pork Chops with Apples
Elevate your pork chops game with this autumn-inspired recipe that combines the richness of maple syrup with the crispness of apples. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, these glazed pork chops are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze over the pork chops, then top each chop with an onion slice and an apple slice.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Harissa Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpeas
This North African-inspired dish combines the sweetness of roasted cauliflower with the creaminess of chickpeas, all infused with the bold flavor of harissa. Perfect as a side or added to salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup harissa paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. While the cauliflower is roasting, mix harissa paste with chickpeas in a bowl.
5. After the cauliflower has roasted for 15 minutes, add the chickpea-harissa mixture to the baking sheet.
6. Continue roasting for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the chickpeas are lightly browned.
7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Balsamic Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Tray Bake
A flavorful and nutritious tray bake that combines the richness of balsamic glaze with the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts and juicy chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze and honey over the chicken, making sure they’re coated evenly.
5. Arrange Brussels sprouts around the chicken in a single layer.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and Brussels sprouts are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Red Curry Shrimp and Vegetable Bake
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy shrimp and vegetable bake recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish combines succulent shrimp, colorful vegetables, and aromatic Thai red curry paste in a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together curry paste, olive oil, coconut milk, fish sauce, and cumin.
3. Add the shrimp and vegetables; toss until well coated with the curry mixture.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Beef and Root Vegetables
This hearty dish combines tender beef with aromatic rosemary and garlic, perfectly balanced with a medley of roasted root vegetables. A perfect comforting meal for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs beef chuck roast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized parsnips, peeled and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Rub the mixture all over the beef roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the chopped onion, carrots, and parsnips in a large bowl.
6. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Spread the vegetables around the beef roast in a single layer.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours or until the beef reaches desired tenderness.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
This flavorful dish combines the sweetness of fresh mozzarella, the creaminess of cherry tomatoes, and the tanginess of balsamic glaze, all atop juicy chicken breasts. It’s a perfect blend of Italian-inspired flavors in one delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush with the olive oil mixture.
4. Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella cheese, a few cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Autumn Harvest Squash and Sausage Bake
As the seasons change, warm up with this comforting recipe that combines the flavors of roasted squash and savory sausage. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, toss squash with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
3. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add garlic, onion, chicken broth, heavy cream, and sage to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Remove squash from oven and add to the skillet. Toss to coat.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until squash is tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to simplify your weeknight cooking routine with these 18 easy tray bake recipes! From garlic butter chicken and potatoes to spicy sausage and sweet potatoes, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include honey mustard salmon with roasted vegetables, Mediterranean vegetable and feta, and cheesy bacon and egg breakfast bakes. Plus, try out Moroccan spiced chickpea and vegetable, Greek lamb and potato, or Thai red curry shrimp and vegetable for a taste of international flavors. These tray bakes are perfect for busy weeknights – just toss everything in the oven and enjoy!
