Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet
Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes
A delightful and easy one-pan pasta dish that's perfect for busy weeknights and loved by the whole family.
This Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is a beloved dish in our home. It's quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it the ideal choice for busy families. With a combination of fresh vegetables and hearty pasta, it's a meal that everyone will enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy nights
- Packed with veggies for a nutritious boost
- Kids will love the cheesy goodness
A One-Pan Wonder
The Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is not just any pasta dish; it’s a one-pan wonder that simplifies your cooking routine. With minimal cleanup and a delicious outcome, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy families. You can have dinner on the table in no time, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones. This meal is a great example of how easy it can be to prepare a wholesome dinner without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out or add different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes could work beautifully in this dish, making it a great way to use up leftover produce. This adaptability not only keeps meals exciting but also ensures that your family gets a variety of nutrients throughout the week.
Nutritious and Delicious
Packed with colorful vegetables, this pasta skillet is a nutritious choice that the whole family will love. The inclusion of zucchini and bell peppers adds essential vitamins and minerals while making the dish visually appealing. The vibrant colors of the veggies are not only inviting but also indicate a range of nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet. Encouraging children to eat their veggies has never been easier with this cheesy and comforting meal.
The combination of mozzarella cheese and fresh basil elevates the dish, adding a creamy texture and aromatic flavor. Cheese is often a favorite among kids, and its melty goodness can make even the pickiest eaters excited about dinner. With this recipe, you can ensure that your family is enjoying a well-rounded meal that satisfies their taste buds and nourishes their bodies.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it's a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, the Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet fits right in. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. You can serve it as a comforting weeknight dinner or dress it up for a more festive occasion by pairing it with a side salad and garlic bread. The dish is also excellent for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to introduce your family to cooking. Get your kids involved by allowing them to help with mixing ingredients or garnishing the final dish. Cooking together can create lasting memories and instill valuable skills in your children, all while making a meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your delicious pasta skillet:
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious pasta skillet:
Cook the Pasta
In a large skillet, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Then, add the bell pepper and zucchini, cooking until softened.
Combine Ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
Add Pasta and Cheese
Stir in the cooked pasta and mozzarella cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
Serve
Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot!
Enjoy your delicious Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet!
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers from the Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week. When it comes time to reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. You may want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to help revive the dish's creamy texture.
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the pasta skillet. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, as mentioned above. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal even on your busiest days.
Customizing Your Skillet
One of the best things about the Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is its versatility. Feel free to customize the dish by incorporating different proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option. Each addition will not only enhance the flavor but also add more nutrients, making your meal even heartier.
You can also experiment with different cheeses or herbs to change the flavor profile. Swap mozzarella for cheddar or gouda for a different taste experience. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be mixed in for added freshness. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add spinach, mushrooms, or any seasonal veggies you like!
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
→ How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet
A delightful and easy one-pan pasta dish that's perfect for busy weeknights and loved by the whole family.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Then, add the bell pepper and zucchini, cooking until softened.
Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in the cooked pasta and mozzarella cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 65g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 18g