Cheesy One Pot Pasta with Perfectly Cooked Penne

Introduction

Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s full of flavor, easy to make, and minimizes cleanup? This Cheesy One Pot Pasta with Perfectly Cooked Penne is a game changer. Everything cooks together in a single pot, allowing the pasta to absorb all the savory flavors while creating a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite.

This recipe is ideal for those wanting a satisfying, comforting meal without the hassle—perfect for busy families or anyone craving a quick and impressive pasta dish.

What Makes This Cheesy One Pot Pasta Special

Unlike most pasta recipes that require boiling noodles in a separate pot, this clever method uses only one pan—ensuring the perfectly cooked penne soaks up all the wonderful, cheesy goodness. The result? Ultra-creamy, robust flavor and tender pasta, all ready in under 30 minutes. With no extra pans to wash, you’ll have more time to savor your meal.

Prepping Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

The key to great flavor lies in prepping your vegetables and aromatics well. Dice onions, mince garlic, and chop your bell peppers to uniform sizes for even cooking. A product like the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper makes prepping a breeze, saving time and creating the perfect texture for your sauté.

For the cheese, freshly grated cheeses such as mozzarella, parmesan, and cheddar will melt smoother and pack more flavor compared to pre-shredded options. Using a sturdy Bamboo Cutting Board can also keep prep organized and your kitchen counters clean.

One Pot Method for Creamy Penne

Start by sautéing the vegetables and aromatics in a large, sturdy nonstick skillet—such as the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch—which ensures easy stirring and prevents sticking as the pasta cooks.

Add your uncooked penne directly to the pan with broth and seasonings. The starch released while simmering results in a luxurious, thick sauce that makes this dish irresistibly creamy, even before the cheese is stirred in!

Serving and Storing with Style

Once your pasta is cheesy and luscious, serve it hot straight from the skillet. If you’d like to save some for later or pack leftovers for lunch, a Bentgo Salad Container keeps portions fresh and easy to transport. To complete your table setup for a casual family dinner or a potluck, opt for the easy-to-clean Pureegg Plastic Table Cloth Disposable 10 Pack.

Nutritional Information & Serving Size

This recipe yields about 6 hearty servings of cheesy pasta. Each serving contains approximately 400-450 calories, depending on your cheese selection and any add-ins, making it a comforting but balanced option when paired with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables.

Why This Cheesy One Pot Pasta is a Crowd-Pleaser (Recap)

By bringing together perfectly cooked penne and rich cheesiness in a single pot, this dinner boasts maximum flavor and minimal fuss. It’s well-loved for both its speed and taste—so whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this is one weeknight staple you’ll want to make again and again.

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute more.
2. Add the uncooked penne, diced tomatoes (with juices), broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a big pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything well to combine.
3. Increase heat to bring mixture to a boil, then reduce to a lively simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 11-13 minutes, or until the penne is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Lower the heat and stir in all the cheeses until melted and creamy. Let the pasta sit for 2-3 minutes so the sauce can thicken. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and extra grated parmesan. For easy leftovers, transfer to your Bentgo Salad Container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes