Crockpot Creamy Pesto fillet Penne
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs fillet (chicken, cod, or salmon, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped onion or bell pepper
Step-by-Step
1. Lightly grease your crockpot with cooking spray.
2. If using onion or bell pepper, place them in the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Add the fillet pieces to the crockpot, spreading them evenly.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pesto, heavy cream, and chicken or vegetable broth.
5. Pour the pesto cream sauce over the fillet in the crockpot.
6. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the fillet is cooked through and flakes easily. (For chicken, ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C.)
9. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
10. Add the cooked penne pasta to the crockpot and stir to combine with the sauce and fillet.
11. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
12. Cover and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
13. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
14. Serve immediately and enjoy!
The Allure of Crockpot Cooking
Crockpot cooking, or slow cooking, is a culinary method that has been cherished for generations. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and ability to transform simple ingredients into flavorful and satisfying meals.
Benefits of Using a Crockpot
The slow and gentle cooking process tenderizes meats and allows flavors to meld together beautifully. Crockpots are also incredibly convenient. You can prepare your ingredients in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat meal.
Cleanup is often easier with a crockpot compared to other cooking methods. The moist environment prevents food from sticking and burning. Crockpots are energy-efficient, using less electricity than ovens or stovetops.
Why This Recipe Works So Well in a Crockpot
This Creamy Pesto fillet Penne recipe is perfectly suited for the crockpot. The slow cooking allows the flavors of the pesto, cream, and fillet to infuse the pasta, creating a rich and harmonious dish. The crockpot also keeps the fillet incredibly tender and moist.
The convenience factor is a major draw. Simply combine the ingredients, set the crockpot, and let it do its magic. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a hands-off cooking experience.
Mastering the Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients greatly impacts the final taste of your dish. Choosing the right ingredients is key to a successful Creamy Pesto fillet Penne.
Selecting the Right fillet
You can use various fillet types, each offering a unique flavor profile. Chicken breast is a popular choice, being readily available and relatively inexpensive. Cod offers a flaky and delicate flavor. Salmon provides a richer, more pronounced flavor and healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Consider the fillet’s texture and how it will hold up during slow cooking. Chicken breast becomes very tender in the crockpot. Cod flakes easily. Salmon remains relatively firm. Cut the fillet into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy serving.
Pesto Perfection: Homemade vs. Store-Bought
Pesto is the heart of this dish, adding a vibrant herbal flavor. While store-bought pesto is convenient, homemade pesto offers a fresher and more intense flavor. If using store-bought pesto, choose a high-quality brand with a good balance of basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
For homemade pesto, use fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Experiment with different pesto variations, such as adding sun-dried tomatoes, walnuts, or different types of cheeses.
Choosing the Right Pasta
Penne pasta is a classic choice for this recipe due to its ridges, which help to capture the creamy pesto sauce. However, other pasta shapes can also work well. Farfalle (bow tie) pasta and rotini (corkscrew) pasta are good alternatives.
Be sure to cook the pasta al dente before adding it to the crockpot. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy during the final cooking stages. Drain the pasta thoroughly to avoid excess water in the sauce.
Tips and Tricks for Success
Even with a simple recipe, a few tips and tricks can help you achieve the best possible results.
Preventing Common Pitfalls
One common pitfall is overcooking the fillet, especially chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcooking to prevent the fillet from becoming dry or tough.
Another pitfall is the pasta becoming mushy. Cooking the pasta al dente and adding it to the crockpot towards the end of the cooking process helps prevent this.
Adjusting the Sauce Consistency
If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken or vegetable broth to thin it out. If the sauce is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Adding more Parmesan cheese can also help to thicken the sauce slightly.
Adding Vegetables for Extra Flavor and Nutrition
Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish to boost its flavor and nutritional value. Sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach can all be added to the crockpot along with the other ingredients.
Consider adding the vegetables at the beginning of the cooking process to allow them to soften and release their flavors.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Dietary Modifications (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free penne pasta. You can find gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa.
For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cream alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Ensure that your pesto is also dairy-free, as some store-bought varieties contain Parmesan cheese.
Spicing It Up: Adding Heat and Flavor
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the crockpot for a touch of heat. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Experiment with different herbs and spices such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary. A bay leaf added to the crockpot during cooking can also add depth of flavor.
Making It Vegetarian/Vegan
To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the fillet and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh.
To make it vegan, use dairy-free cream and pesto, and omit the fillet. Add extra vegetables and plant-based protein to make it a satisfying and complete meal.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
The Crockpot Creamy Pesto fillet Penne can be served as a main course or as a side dish.
Perfect Pairings: Complementary Dishes
Serve this dish with a side salad for a light and refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing works well.
Garlic bread or crusty bread is also a great accompaniment for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Garnishing for Visual Appeal
Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a pop of color.
Consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or a swirl of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of elegance.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to prevent the pasta from drying out.
FAQ
Can I use frozen fillet?
Yes, you can use frozen fillet, but make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the crockpot. Thawing ensures even cooking and prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
How long can I leave the crockpot on low?
You can safely leave the crockpot on low for up to 8 hours. However, for this recipe, 2-3 hours is sufficient to cook the fillet and meld the flavors.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes such as farfalle, rotini, or even spaghetti. Adjust the cooking time of the pasta according to the package directions.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Add them at the beginning of the cooking process to allow them to soften and release their flavors.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh and add it to the crockpot just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
