In the hustle and bustle of modern life, a delicious and satisfying dinner doesn’t have to be a complex affair. Enter the world of Easy One Pan Tomato And Cheese Penne—a delightful dish that marries convenience and flavor in a single skillet. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or simply someone who appreciates a fuss-free yet indulgent meal, this recipe is a game-changer.
The Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Easy One Pan Tomato And Cheese Penne
- Penne Pasta: You can choose any pasta you like for this dish. But penne pasta would be the best choice in my opinion. Its cylindrical shape and ridges help capture and hold onto the creamy sauce.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: You can cook the pasta in broth or water. But adding a flavorful base like chicken or vegetable broth infuses it with taste.
- Ricotta Cheese: The star ingredient that creates the luscious, creamy yet light sauce.
- Butter and Olive Oil: A dynamic duo that adds richness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic: Finely minced garlic cloves bring aromatic charm to the dish.
- Combination of Cheeses: I like to add mozzarella and/or feta in the sauce and sprinkle some parmesan to get delightful nuttiness in every bite.
- Tomatoes: I like to use a combination of marinara sauce and cherry tomatoes for better texture and taste.
- Salt, Pepper, and Dry Basil: To season the dish to perfection.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped basil for a burst of freshness and color.
Instructions:
Sauté the Garlic and Cherry Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat a mixture of butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the split-in-half cherry tomatoes and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and saute for a minute until fragrant.
Cook the Penne: Pour in the Penne pasta, marinara sauce, and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for about 12-13 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Add the Ricotta Cheese and Grated Mozzarella: Add the ricotta cheese and grated mozzarella cheese and stir to combine. Allow them to melt with the pasta.
Season and Garnish: Season the dish with salt, pepper, and dry basil. Add the chopped fresh basil.
Serve and Savor: Transfer the creamy penne to serving plates, and sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan. Garnish with some more fresh basil, if desired. Serve the dish while it’s hot.
Customization and Variations:
- Protein Power: Enhance the dish by adding cooked and sliced chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Veggie Delight: Incorporate your favorite vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for added color and nutrients.
- Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a hint of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to the creamy sauce.
In a world where simplicity often leads to the most satisfying outcomes, Easy One-Pan Creamy Penne stands as a testament to the beauty of uncomplicated cooking. With just a handful of ingredients and a single skillet, you can create a dish that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the heart—a testament to the power of culinary simplicity. So, why not embrace the joy of a one-pan wonder and treat yourself to a bowl of creamy penne perfection? Your taste buds will thank you!
Easy One Pan Tomato And Cheese Penne
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
- 8 oz. dry penne pasta
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups chicken, vegetable broth, or water
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- ½ tsp. each kosher salt and cracked black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- grated Parmesan cheese for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat a mixture of butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the split-in-half cherry tomatoes and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and saute for a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the Penne pasta, marinara sauce, and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for about 12-13 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add the ricotta cheese and grated mozzarella cheese and stir to combine. Allow them to melt with the pasta.
- Season the dish with salt, pepper, and dry basil. Add the chopped fresh basil.
- Transfer the creamy penne to serving plates, and sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan. Garnish with some more fresh basil, if desired. Serve the dish while it's hot.
