What To Know
- Top the cooked penne mixture with additional cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- While penne is a classic choice, you can also cook other types of pasta in a slow cooker, such as.
- The resounding answer is yes, you can cook penne in a slow cooker and create a delicious and effortless meal.
Can I Cook Penne in Slow Cooker?
The answer is an emphatic yes! Slow cookers, those versatile kitchen wonders, are not just for stews and roasts. They can also be your secret weapon for creating delicious and effortless pasta dishes.
The Benefits of Slow Cooker Penne
- Time-saving: With a slow cooker, you can have a hearty meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen. Just dump the ingredients in the morning and let the slow cooker do its magic while you’re away.
- Flavorful: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish.
- Versatile: You can customize your penne dish with various ingredients, such as vegetables, meats, cheeses, and sauces.
- Budget-friendly: Slow cooker meals are typically easy on the wallet, as they often use inexpensive ingredients.
How to Cook Penne in Slow Cooker
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 pound ground beef (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef (optional): If using, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker: Combine the penne, marinara sauce, chicken broth, onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and browned ground beef (if using) in a slow cooker.
3. Cook on low: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Stir in cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
5. Serve and enjoy: Serve the slow cooker penne hot with additional Parmesan cheese and crusty bread.
Variations on Slow Cooker Penne
- Vegetable Medley: Add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, celery, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Meat Lover’s Delight: Use a combination of ground beef, sausage, and bacon for a hearty and flavorful dish.
- Creamy Alfredo: Replace the marinara sauce with a jar of Alfredo sauce for a rich and decadent pasta.
- Baked Penne: Top the cooked penne mixture with additional cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Penne
- Use a slow cooker liner: This makes cleanup a breeze.
- Don’t overfill the slow cooker: Leave about 2 inches of space at the top to prevent splattering.
- Stir occasionally: This helps ensure even cooking.
- Cook on low: Cooking on high will dry out the pasta.
- Test the pasta for doneness: Use a fork to check if the pasta is al dente, or cooked to your desired tenderness.
Beyond Penne: Other Pasta Options
While penne is a classic choice, you can also cook other types of pasta in a slow cooker, such as:
- Spaghetti
- Rigatoni
- Ziti
- Lasagna noodles
“Can I Cook Penne in Slow Cooker?” – The Ultimate Takeaway
The resounding answer is yes, you can cook penne in a slow cooker and create a delicious and effortless meal. With its versatility, time-saving benefits, and budget-friendly nature, the slow cooker is a perfect tool for busy home cooks and pasta enthusiasts alike. So, gather your ingredients, turn on your slow cooker, and let the flavors dance their magic.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I use other types of pasta besides penne in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can use other pasta shapes, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, ziti, or lasagna noodles.
Q: Should I add water to the slow cooker when cooking pasta?
A: No, the chicken broth or other liquid in the sauce provides enough moisture for the pasta to cook.
Q: Can I add raw vegetables to the slow cooker penne?
A: Yes, you can add chopped vegetables, such as carrots, celery, mushrooms, or zucchini. However, they may need to be pre-cooked if they are not tender enough to cook in the slow cooker.
Q: Can I freeze slow cooker penne?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked slow cooker penne for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing it in airtight containers.
Q: How can I reheat slow cooker penne?
A: You can reheat slow cooker penne in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
