Easy Slow Cooker Pennoni Pasta Bake – Creamy 4-Ingredient Comfort Food Recipe
If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker pasta recipe that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor, this Creamy Slow Cooker Pennoni Pasta Bake is the perfect choice. Made with just four simple ingredients, this cheesy pasta casserole cooks slowly to create a rich, creamy texture that the whole family will love.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy comfort-food dinners, this slow cooker pasta recipe saves time while delivering a delicious homemade meal.
Benefits of This Slow Cooker Pennoni Pasta Recipe
- Only 4 simple ingredients
- Easy “dump-and-go” slow cooker meal
- Kid-friendly and family-approved
- Rich in calcium and protein from mozzarella cheese
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Customizable with vegetables or extra cheese
- No need to boil pasta beforehand
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) uncooked pennoni pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 cups creamy tomato pasta sauce
- Optional: Fresh parsley or Italian seasoning for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray.
Step 2: Add the Pasta
Spread the uncooked pennoni pasta evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the broth and creamy tomato sauce until smooth.
Step 4: Combine
Pour the sauce mixture over the pasta, ensuring most of the pasta is covered with liquid.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese over the pasta mixture. Reserve the remaining ½ cup for later.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 2½ to 3½ hours until the pasta becomes tender.
Step 7: Finish with Cheese
Stir gently, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Allow the pasta to rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with parsley or Italian seasoning and serve warm.
Recipe Tips
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Add steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- For a richer sauce, replace 1 cup of broth with cooking cream.
- Add extra mozzarella or provolone for an ultra-cheesy pasta bake.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy slow cooker pennoni pasta with:
- Fresh green salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted broccoli
- Green beans
- Mixed vegetables
This comforting pasta dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, holidays, and meal-prep lunches.
