Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet

Name: Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes

A delicious and easy one-skillet pasta dish that the whole family will love!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-18T20:21:48.842Z

This Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is a quick, comforting meal that brings everyone to the table. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation for busy evenings
A one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup
Packed with wholesome ingredients your family will love

      

A Family Favorite

The Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together. With its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients, this dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. Kids and adults alike will love digging their forks into this delicious pasta, making it a staple for family dinners.

This recipe encourages family bonding, as everyone can gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter. The combination of fresh vegetables and pasta creates a wholesome dish that nourishes both body and soul. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce your children to vegetables without them even realizing it!

Perfect for Busy Nights

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a healthy dinner can be challenging. The Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is designed with busy families in mind. With a cooking time of just under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for those hectic evenings when you need to get dinner on the table quickly.

Using only one skillet means less time spent on cleanup, allowing you to enjoy more precious moments with your loved ones. Simply toss everything into the pan and let it simmer while you set the table or help with homework. This meal is not just quick; it's also stress-free!

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best things about the Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your family’s preferences or what you have on hand. Swap out the penne pasta for any shape you prefer, such as fusilli or spaghetti, and feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins.

Whether you want to add cooked chicken for extra protein or substitute the vegetables with seasonal options like asparagus or spinach, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability not only makes it a great recipe for any season but also allows you to keep your family’s meals exciting and fresh.

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

12 oz penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Sauce and Seasoning

2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil for garnish

Mix and match your favorite vegetables for a customized touch!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large skillet, bring water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. Then, add bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.

Cook for about 5 minutes until soft.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the cooked pasta, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 10 minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens.

Serve

Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade pasta skillet!

Nutritional Benefits

The Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The dish features a variety of colorful vegetables that provide essential vitamins and minerals. Bell peppers and zucchini are rich in antioxidants, while cherry tomatoes offer a boost of vitamin C and lycopene, promoting heart health.

Additionally, incorporating whole grain pasta can increase fiber content, aiding digestion and keeping you fuller for longer. With the inclusion of Parmesan cheese, you not only enhance the flavor but also add a source of calcium and protein, making this skillet meal a well-rounded option for your family.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. The crispness of a salad complements the warmth of the pasta, creating a balanced meal. Drizzling a bit of balsamic vinaigrette over the salad can add a delightful tang that contrasts beautifully with the savory pasta.

For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the dish before serving. This simple addition can enhance the flavors and give the meal an exciting kick. Pair the skillet with a light white wine, and you have a fantastic weeknight dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, you’re in luck! The Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of vegetable broth to keep it moist and flavorful. This makes it a convenient option for lunch the next day as well!

For meal prep enthusiasts, this recipe can be made ahead of time and portioned out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just prepare the dish as directed, cool it completely, and store it in individual containers. You’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and vegetables ahead of time and combine them just before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.