Italian Wedding Pasta Skillet
Try this Italian Wedding Pasta Skillet recipe.
Try this Italian Wedding Pasta Skillet recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 1/2 teaspoons italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon skim milk
- 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs
- 1 celery rib chopped
- 1 cup reduced sodium fat free chicken broth
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
- 12 oz 99% lean ground turkey breast
- 8 oz uncooked medium pasta shells
- 12 oz raw boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into small bite-size pieces
- 1 (10.75 oz) can of healthy request cream of chicken
- 2 oz parmesan cheese finely shredded (i use the smallest holed side of a box grater)
- Carbohydrate 17.8983364749468 g
- Cholesterol 54.0953281952625 mg
- Fat 4.50005700481561 g
- Fiber 0.223719167352716 g
- Protein 7.44433817749868 g
- Saturated Fat 1.80049587021512 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (1 rounded cup) serving (138g)
- Sodium 154.494342643372 mg
- Sugar 17.6746173075941 g
- Trans Fat 0.504458292250636 g
- Calories 143 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, egg and milk. Using your hands (or a spoon) mush all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Roll the meat mixture into 60 separate (3/4-1 inch) mini meatballs and set aside.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package directions. Drain the pasta when cooked.
- While the water boils for step 2, bring 2 teaspoons of the olive oil over medium heat in a large saute pan or walled skillet.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Remove chicken to a side plate.
- Add a tablespoon of the oil to the same skillet and keep over medium heat.
- Add the mini meatballs and cook for a few minutes, stirring when needed, until all sides are browned and the meatballs are cooked through.
- Transfer meatballs to the plate with the chicken.
- Add the remaining teaspoon of oil to the skillet, still over medium heat, and add the onion, carrots and celery.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for a few minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the garlic and stir together. Cook for another minute until garlic is fragrant.
- Add the chicken, meatballs, broth, condensed soup, chopped spinach, thyme, salt and pepper and stir together until well combined.
- Cover the pan and cook on medium-low for 2-5 minutes until heated through.
- Remove the lid and stir in the pasta and one ounce of the shredded parmesan until well combined.
- Sprinkle the remaining ounce of Parmesan over top of the skillet and replace the lid.
- Turn off the burner and keep covered for 1-2 minutes until the cheese on top is melted.
My Favorite Weeknight Italian Wedding Pasta Skillet
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the never-ending to-do list. But that doesn't mean I'm willing to compromise on dinner! I crave flavorful, comforting meals, and this Italian Wedding Pasta Skillet has become my absolute go-to. It's quick, easy, and tastes like I spent hours slaving away in the kitchen (when, in reality, it takes about 30 minutes!).
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt it to what you have on hand. Feeling adventurous? Throw in some mushrooms or bell peppers. Need to use up leftover cooked chicken? Perfect! This recipe is a blank canvas, ready for your culinary creativity. The combination of tender pasta, savory meatballs, and creamy sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your family. And cleanup is a breeze—one skillet, that’s it!
The Magic of One Pan
What makes this skillet so appealing is its simplicity. The entire meal is cooked in a single pan, minimizing dishes and maximizing efficiency. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when the last thing you want is a mountain of dirty dishes staring you down. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully as everything cooks together, creating a harmonious symphony of taste.
Ingredient Spotlight
The ingredients are mostly pantry staples, which makes this recipe easy to whip up on short notice. I use lean ground turkey for the meatballs, keeping the dish relatively healthy while maintaining a satisfying richness. I love the addition of fresh spinach, which adds a burst of color and nutrients. And of course, a generous amount of Parmesan cheese is a must for that classic Italian flair. The cream of chicken soup adds a rich creamy texture, but if you want a lighter version, you can easily substitute with half and half or even just chicken broth.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To ensure perfectly cooked meatballs, make sure they’re not too big. Smaller meatballs cook more evenly and quickly. Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the meatballs; work in batches if necessary. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with the vegetables. Add whatever you have on hand or whatever strikes your fancy.
This Italian Wedding Pasta Skillet isn’t just a meal; it’s a testament to the fact that delicious, home-cooked food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients and straightforward cooking, resulting in a meal that’s both satisfying and stress-free. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it's become a staple in my kitchen.
Beyond the Weeknight
While this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight, it's also impressive enough for a casual weekend dinner with friends or family. Just imagine the warm aroma filling your kitchen as the pasta simmers, promising a comforting and delicious meal. The beautiful thing about this recipe is its adaptability—it can be easily scaled up or down to feed a crowd or just a few people. So whether it's a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering, this Italian Wedding Pasta Skillet is a versatile and delicious choice.
Embrace the Simplicity
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy to lose sight of the simple pleasures. This recipe is a reminder that sometimes, the most satisfying meals are the simplest ones. So embrace the ease, the convenience, and the deliciousness of this Italian Wedding Pasta Skillet. It’s a recipe that nourishes both the body and the soul, and that’s a feeling worth savoring.
