Slow Cooker Creamy Pennoni Pasta Bake
Why You’ll Love This Recipe (Benefits)
This slow cooker creamy pennoni pasta bake is the definition of effortless comfort food. With just a few pantry staples, you get a rich, cheesy pasta dish that:
- Saves time with a true set-it-and-forget-it method
- Uses simple ingredients you likely already have
- Delivers ultra-creamy, cheesy, restaurant-style flavor
- Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and busy weeknights
- Minimizes cleanup thanks to one-pot slow cooking
- Easily customizable for vegetarian or extra-cheesy versions
Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked pennoni pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 2 cups jarred creamy vodka sauce or tomato-cream pasta sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Optional: parsley or Italian seasoning for garnish
Instructions
- Lightly grease a 5–6 quart slow cooker to prevent sticking.
- Add the uncooked pennoni pasta evenly into the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix the broth with the creamy pasta sauce until smooth and well blended.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the pasta, making sure most of it is submerged. Avoid over-stirring.
- Sprinkle 1½ cups mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 2½ to 3½ hours, until pasta is tender and creamy.
- Stir gently, then top with remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese.
- Cook another 10–15 minutes until melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Expert Tips & Variations
Extra Creamy Pasta Bake Version
Add ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer creamy slow cooker pasta recipe.
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Pasta
Use vegetable broth and ensure sauce is meat-free for a vegetarian slow cooker pasta bake.
Extra Cheesy Upgrade
Mix in provolone, parmesan, or extra mozzarella for a cheesy baked pasta slow cooker recipe.
Healthy Serving Idea
Serve with broccoli, green beans, or spinach for a balanced easy family dinner recipe.
