We present herein a simple one-pot synthesis of piperidines and β-aminoketones via an imine-based three-component reaction from readily available aromatic amines, aromatic aldehydes and β-ketoesters/acetophenone. The advantages of this procedure are mild reaction conditions, high yields of products, operational simplicity and easy work-up procedures. The work-up of these reactions involves only a filtration and a simple washing step with MeCN or EtOH, and there is no need for column chromatography.