Creamy Red Lentil Penne Skillet

Try this Creamy Red Lentil Penne Skillet recipe

Creamy Red Lentil Penne Skillet
Creamy Red Lentil Penne Skillet

Try this Creamy Red Lentil Penne Skillet recipe

  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 4
  • Carbohydrate 4.10807626980803 g
  • Cholesterol 3.083010637125 mg
  • Fat 1.24122977642881 g
  • Fiber 0.0379765226408556 g
  • Protein 2.68164116966747 g
  • Saturated Fat 0.331443921013403 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (163g)
  • Sodium 149.577428105308 mg
  • Sugar 4.07009974716717 g
  • Trans Fat 0.0884664986896344 g
  • Calories 39 calories

Step-by-step

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until crisp.
  • Use a slotted spoon to remove about ½ cup of bacon and set on a paper towel lined plate. Save for later.
  • Carefully add the garlic and saute for 30 seconds.
  • Drain the fat from the skillet and return to the stove top over medium-high heat.
  • Add the penne, chicken stock, water, salt and pepper to the skillet.
  • Stir and bring to a small boil.
  • Reduce heat to a simmer and cover for about 7 to 8 minutes.
  • Toss in the brussel sprouts and stir to combine.
  • Cover and cook an additional 5 to 6 minutes or until the penne and brussel sprouts are tender.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese and stir for 2 minutes, until heated through.
  • Sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon on top before serving.
  • Enjoy!
Creamy Red Lentil Penne Skillet - A Weeknight Delight

A Weeknight Wonder: Creamy Red Lentil Penne Skillet

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy meal can feel like a Herculean task. Many nights, the siren call of takeout is almost too strong to resist. But then I stumbled upon this Creamy Red Lentil Penne Skillet recipe, and it’s become a lifesaver! It's quick, it's easy, and it's surprisingly satisfying. Forget spending hours slaving over a hot stove – this one-pan wonder is ready in under 20 minutes, leaving me with more time to spend with my family (or maybe just sneak in a quick episode of my favorite show!). The combination of creamy, savory, and slightly nutty red lentil penne, perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts, and crispy bacon is a symphony of flavors that never fails to impress. Even the pickiest eaters in my house clean their plates!

The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Add some spinach for extra nutrients, or swap the Brussels sprouts for broccoli or peas. You can even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your own preferences and what you have on hand. This dish also fits perfectly into my healthy eating goals. The red lentils provide a good source of protein and fiber, keeping me feeling full and energized throughout the day. It's the perfect balance of comfort food and healthy eating, something I always strive for when I'm planning my meals.

Beyond the ease and deliciousness, this recipe also allows for great meal prepping. I often double the recipe on the weekend and store leftovers in the fridge for quick and easy lunches during the week. This saves me so much time and stress on busy weekday mornings. No more frantic searches for something to pack in my lunchbox! This recipe truly embodies the essence of efficient and satisfying cooking. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights, a perfect meal for a casual weekend gathering, or even a quick and easy lunch for work.

Beyond the Recipe: This Creamy Red Lentil Penne Skillet isn’t just about the food; it’s about the moments. It's about the aroma filling the kitchen as I prepare dinner, the happy chatter around the table as we share a meal together, and the quiet satisfaction of creating something delicious and nutritious for my family. It's a small act of love, a simple pleasure that makes life a little brighter. This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there's always time to savor the good things – like a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner.

Tips and Variations:

  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Substitute other vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas for the Brussels sprouts.
  • Add a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor.
  • Use different types of pasta, such as rotini or farfalle.
  • Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.

Make this your go-to weeknight dinner and enjoy the deliciousness and ease!