Creamy Red Lentil Penne Skillet
5 thick cut bacon strips, roughly chopped
2 tsp minced garlic
12 oz. Red Lentil Penne
14.5 oz chicken stock
1 cup water
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 cups brussel sprouts trimmed and halved
1/3 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup parmesan cheese
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove about 1/4 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.
Cooking a creamy red lentil penne skillet has become one of my go-to comfort meals, especially when I want something hearty yet quick to prepare. What I love most about this dish is how the red lentil penne not only cooks faster than traditional pasta but also adds a delightful nutritional boost with extra protein and fiber. When making this skillet, I find that getting the bacon extra crispy adds a wonderful texture contrast to the creamy sauce and tender brussel sprouts. Don’t rush the garlic sauté step either—it enhances the depth of flavor beautifully. The combination of chicken stock and water ensures the penne is perfectly cooked while infusing subtle savory notes. Adding the brussel sprouts midway through cooking not only retains their vibrant green color but also keeps a little bite, which balances out the creaminess. I also appreciate using heavy cream and parmesan at the end to create that luscious sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. If you’re looking to make this dish even more wholesome, you can swap the heavy cream for a lighter alternative like half-and-half or coconut milk, although it will change the flavor profile slightly. Another tip is to sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper and extra parmesan just before serving to elevate all the flavors. This skillet recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it requires minimal cleanup—just one pan! Plus, the smoky bacon bits on top add a satisfying crunch that makes it feel like an indulgent meal. I often pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the dinner. Overall, this creamy red lentil penne skillet hits all the right notes: easy prep, rich flavors, and nutritious ingredients. I highly recommend trying it if you want a cozy pasta dish that stands out with the unique addition of red lentil pasta and brussel sprouts.
