An efficient, one-pot synthesis of substituted indenones was accomplished starting from simple o-iodoketones and aldehydes. [Pd]-catalyzed direct acylation of o-iodoketones with aldehydes was employed as the key step. Subsequent intramolecular aldol condensation afforded the indenones. Notably, a variety of indenones were achieved. Significantly, the natural product neolignan was accomplished in one pot. © 2016 American Chemical Society.