Monterey Penne

This quick and easy Monterey Penne brings the comfort of cheesy pasta to your table in minutes. Featuring tender penne noodles tossed with crisp-tender bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, this dish is bound together with creamy, melted Monterey Jack cheese. It is a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something warm and satisfying without the fuss of stovetop cooking. The vegetables steam gently in the microwave, retaining their texture and nutrients, while the cheese creates a light, savory coating. Serve it as a hearty main course or a substantial side dish. It&# 226;ÂÂs simple, delicious, and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Cooking Method: Microwave

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 2

Calories: 10.0

Dietary: Diabetic, Vegetarian

Description

This quick and easy Monterey Penne brings the comfort of cheesy pasta to your table in minutes. Featuring tender penne noodles tossed with crisp-tender bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, this dish is bound together with creamy, melted Monterey Jack cheese. It is a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something warm and satisfying without the fuss of stovetop cooking. The vegetables steam gently in the microwave, retaining their texture and nutrients, while the cheese creates a light, savory coating. Serve it as a hearty main course or a substantial side dish. It&# 226;ÂÂs simple, delicious, and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
4 cups hot cooked penne pasta, drained
1 medium red or green bell pepper, cut into julienne strips
1 cup fresh mushrooms, quartered
1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons water

Directions

1
Place the chopped bell pepper, quartered mushrooms, and chopped onion into a microwave-safe dish.
2
Add 2 tablespoons of water to the dish and cover it tightly with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
3
Microwave on high for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
4
Carefully remove the dish from the microwave and drain any excess liquid from the vegetables.
5
Add the hot cooked penne pasta and shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the vegetables.
6
Toss everything together until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
7
Serve immediately while warm.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2

Amount Per Serving
Calories 10.0kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.1g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 2.0mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 2.3g1%
Dietary Fiber 1.0g4%
Sugars 1.2g
Protein 0.5g1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For best results, ensure the pasta is very hot when mixing with the cheese to help it melt smoothly.

You can add a pinch of garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream before microwaving the vegetables.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Feel free to substitute the Monterey Jack with cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese based on your preference.

Keywords: monterey jack, penne pasta, microwave recipe, quick dinner, cheesy pasta, bell peppers, mushrooms, easy meal, vegetable pasta, comfort food, weeknight dinner, simple recipe, italian style, healthy dinner, low effort, family friendly

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/monterey-penne/