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Homemade One Pot Penne Pasta Recipe photo

One Pot Penne Pasta Recipe

A simple, creamy one-pot penne pasta with smoked sausage, roasted red peppers, and spinach ready in about 15 minutes of hands-on time.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound smoked sausage cut into bite-sized slices
  • 1/2 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup mushrooms sliced
  • 3 cups penne pasta uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken stock or broth
  • 10 ounce jarred roasted red peppers undrained
  • 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups spinach

Equipment

  • Medium Pot with Lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Heat a medium pot over medium heat and add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the slices begin to brown, about 3–4 minutes.
  2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook, stirring often, until the onion is slightly tender and the mushrooms soften, about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Stir in the uncooked penne, chicken stock (or broth), and the jarred roasted red peppers with their liquid. Mix to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Cover the pot and cook for 5–8 minutes, then remove the lid and stir. Continue cooking uncovered until the penne is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 2–4 more minutes.
  5. Stir in the Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses until melted and well combined, then add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired, then serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use low-sodium broth if you need less salt.
  • Slice sausage uniformly for even cooking.
  • Stir gently to prevent the pasta from sticking.