Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen preparing dinner? Do you crave a comforting, flavorful meal without the fuss? Then look no further! This Crock Pot Penne Pasta recipe is your new go-to for quick, easy, and incredibly delicious weeknight dinners. It's the perfect blend of convenience and homemade goodness, making it a staple in our household. Get ready to experience the joy of effortless cooking with this simple yet satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your pasta sauce.
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Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. This creates a rich and flavorful base for our delicious pasta.
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Add Pasta: Gently stir in the penne pasta. Ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the sauce; you may need to add a little extra water if necessary. Don't worry about fully covering the pasta at this stage.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The slow cooker does the magic, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve: Once the pasta is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley and mozzarella cheese, if desired. Enjoy your effortless and delicious homemade meal!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Penne Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Start checking for doneness around the 6-hour mark (on low) to prevent mushy pasta. Every slow cooker varies slightly.
- Add protein: Enhance your meal by adding cooked sausage, ground beef, or chicken to the sauce before adding the pasta.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Add them along with the onions and garlic.
- Fresh herbs are best: If possible, use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Penne: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Vegetarian Penne: Omit the meat and add extra vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Penne: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Crock Pot Penne Pasta recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined. It's a quick dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights, providing a delicious and satisfying dish without compromising on taste or nutrition. Enjoy this fantastic homemade cooking experience!