Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This delicious Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is a quick and easy dish that brings the whole family together around the dinner table.
This pasta skillet is not just a meal; it's a family tradition that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it's sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
- Flavorful ingredients that please both kids and adults
- One-pan meal for easy cleanup and minimal fuss
A Family-Friendly Meal
Finding a meal that pleases everyone in the family can be a challenge. The Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is designed to bridge that gap, making mealtime enjoyable for both kids and adults. With its colorful vegetables and cheesy goodness, this dish not only looks appealing but also tastes fantastic. It’s an excellent opportunity for parents to introduce healthy ingredients in a way that feels fun and satisfying.
This one-pan recipe simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones. No need to juggle several pots and pans—everything cooks together in one skillet, which means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying each other's company. Plus, the vibrant colors of the zucchini, bell pepper, and tomatoes make it visually enticing for the little ones.
Versatile Ingredients
One of the standout features of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what your family enjoys most. If your kids aren’t fans of zucchini, try adding spinach or broccoli instead. You can even experiment with different types of pasta, including whole grain or gluten-free options, to cater to dietary preferences.
The use of canned diced tomatoes and vegetable broth adds depth and richness to the dish without requiring lengthy cooking times. This means you can whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence. The Italian seasoning ties everything together, creating a flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Garnish and Serve
Presentation is key when it comes to family meals, and this pasta skillet is no exception. A sprinkle of fresh basil on top not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color that makes the dish more appealing. Encourage your children to help with the garnish; it can be a fun way to involve them in the cooking process and teach them about fresh herbs.
Serve the Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet warm, and watch as your table fills with smiles and compliments. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal. It's not just dinner; it's an experience that brings the family together, fostering conversation and connection over delicious food.
Ingredients
Pasta Skillet Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 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
Enjoy this delicious and nutritious pasta dish!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large skillet, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini, and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, and cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finish with Cheese
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and let it cook for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil.
Serve hot and enjoy your family meal!
Tips for Success
To ensure that your pasta is cooked perfectly, follow the package instructions closely. Remember, al dente pasta will hold up better when mixed with the sauce and veggies. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.
For added flavor, try sautéing some Italian sausage or ground turkey along with the vegetables. This will elevate the dish and add protein, making it even more satisfying. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as the meat may bring additional flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If you find the pasta has absorbed too much liquid, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up.
This dish also freezes well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute with any pasta you have on hand, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
→ Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, it is a vegetarian dish. You can add chicken or sausage for a non-vegetarian option.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance and cook it when you're ready to eat.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet
This delicious Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is a quick and easy dish that brings the whole family together around the dinner table.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Pasta Skillet Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 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, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini, and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, and cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and let it cook for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 60g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 15g