If you’re on the hunt for a quick, mouthwatering dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, look no further than Instant Pot Creamy Penne. This dish is your answer to busy weeknights, delivering comfort, flavor, and ease in one pot! The creamy sauce wraps itself around the penne, creating a cozy and satisfying meal that even picky eaters will devour. Plus, with minimal cleanup, you can spend more time enjoying the meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans. Sounds great, right? Let's jump right in.
Ingredients
Here’s what you'll need to whip up this creamy masterpiece:
- 12 oz penne pasta (regular or whole wheat works great)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (your favorite store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Got all the ingredients? Great! Now, grab your trusty Instant Pot, and let's get cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" setting. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat for a minute. Toss in the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
2. Add the Liquids and Pasta
Turn off the "Sauté" function by pressing "Cancel." Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream, and marinara sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using. Stir everything together to combine. Add the penne pasta to the pot, making sure the noodles are mostly submerged in the liquid. Do not stir once the pasta is added; this helps prevent sticking.
3. Pressure Cook
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to "Sealing." Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" button and adjust the cooking time to 5 minutes. Once the timer beeps, perform a quick release by carefully moving the valve to "Venting." Be cautious of the steam!
4. Add the Cheese
Once the pressure has completely released, open the lid and give the pasta a good stir. The noodles should be perfectly cooked and coated in a rich, creamy sauce. While everything is still hot, mix in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Stir until all the cheese is melted and creates a luscious sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Garnish and Serve
Scoop the creamy penne into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil or parsley. For an added Parmesan kick, grate a little extra on top. Serve hot and savor every bite!
Tips for Customization
One of the best things about Instant Pot Creamy Penne is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to make the dish your own:
- Add protein: Cooked chicken, shrimp, sausage, or even crispy bacon make excellent additions.
- Go veggie-heavy: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms after pressure cooking for extra nutrients.
- Swap sauces: Prefer something different? Swap the marinara for Alfredo or a vodka sauce.
- Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or toss in a spoonful of chili paste for some heat.
- Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, but note that cooking times may vary.
How to Serve
This creamy penne pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. If you’re hosting guests, serve it family-style straight from the Instant Pot to keep things warm and casual. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Why You’ll Love It
With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this Instant Pot Creamy Penne is the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. It’s comforting, versatile, and comes together fast, making it an excellent go-to for any occasion. Plus, the Instant Pot takes care of the hard work for you, so even kitchen newbies can feel like a pro.
Give it a try tonight and see how quickly it becomes a family favorite. Bon appétit!
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