Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet

Name: Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup spinach leaves; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes

A delightful one-pot dish that brings the family together for a wholesome meal. This Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is easy to prepare and packed with flavors your loved ones will enjoy.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-18T22:01:48.681Z

This pasta skillet is not only simple to make but also a comforting dish that can be customized with your family's favorite vegetables and proteins. Perfect for busy weeknights!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        One-pot meal for easy cleanup
Packed with nutritious ingredients
Customizable to suit any taste

      

A Family-Friendly Meal

In today's fast-paced world, finding time for family meals can be a challenge. The Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet makes it easy to gather everyone around the table. This recipe allows you to create a delicious meal in just one pot, saving you both time and effort. Not only does this dish provide nourishment, but it also fosters connection and conversation, making mealtime a cherished family tradition.

This one-pot meal is not only convenient but also encourages healthy eating habits. With a blend of vegetables and protein, it delivers essential nutrients to keep everyone feeling their best. The incorporation of spinach and cherry tomatoes not only adds vibrant colors but also a wealth of vitamins and minerals. This way, you can ensure that your family is enjoying a balanced and wholesome dish.

Customize to Your Liking

One of the best features of the Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is its versatility. You can easily tailor this dish to suit your family's tastes. Want to add more veggies? Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Prefer a vegetarian option? Simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or tofu for protein. This flexibility means that everyone can enjoy a meal that meets their dietary preferences and restrictions.

Additionally, you can experiment with different types of pasta or sauces to keep things interesting. Swap penne for fusilli or farfalle, or try a homemade marinara sauce instead of broth for a richer flavor. The possibilities are endless, and this adaptability ensures that you won't get bored with the same recipe week after week.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking for a meal that can be easily prepared in advance, the Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is an excellent choice. This dish stores well in the refrigerator, making it ideal for meal prepping. Simply make a larger batch and divide it into individual portions for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. This way, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal even on your busiest days.

Reheating is a breeze too! Just warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, and you'll have a delicious, ready-to-eat meal in minutes. By incorporating this dish into your weekly meal planning, you can save time, reduce stress, and still provide your family with nutritious and tasty meals.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach leaves
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the penne pasta and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover.

Cook for 10 minutes, or until pasta is al dente.

Add Vegetables and Chicken

Stir in the cherry tomatoes, spinach, and shredded chicken. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach has wilted.

Serve

Remove from heat and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

This skillet dish can be topped with your favorite herbs for extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet is not just tasty; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. The use of vegetable broth as a base not only enhances the flavor but also adds essential vitamins and minerals. Spinach, known for its high iron content, contributes to overall health, while cherry tomatoes provide antioxidants that support the immune system.

Incorporating shredded chicken adds a lean protein source, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that supports the well-being of your family, making it a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results with your Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet, make sure to follow the cooking times closely. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, while undercooked pasta may be too firm. Aim for al dente for the perfect texture that holds up in the dish.

Also, don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Everyone has different taste preferences, so taste your dish as you go. A dash of red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat, while fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor profile even further.

Storage and Leftovers

When it comes to storing your Food Babe Family Pasta Skillet, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain the texture of the pasta and vegetables.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions of the dish. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

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 store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli are great additions.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and reheated for quick meals.