One-Pot Creamy Penne (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 small onion, diced
02 - 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
03 - 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
04 - 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
05 - 4 cups of fresh spinach leaves
06 - 1 tablespoon of olive oil
07 - ½ cup of heavy cream
08 - 1 pound of cooked penne, drained

→ Seasonings

09 - Salt and black pepper to your liking
10 - 2 bay leaves
11 - A pinch of chili flakes, adjust for spiciness

→ Toppings

12 - 1 handful of grated parmesan cheese (optional)
13 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella
14 - A few fresh parsley sprigs for decorating

# Instructions:

01 - Warm olive oil over medium heat in a large pan. Toss in the bell pepper and onion, stir, and cook for around 3 minutes.
02 - Mix in the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring for a minute to release the flavors.
03 - Pour in the canned tomatoes and tuck in the bay leaves. Give it a good stir, cover the pot, and simmer for 4 minutes on medium-low.
04 - Take out the bay leaves. Pour in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, then toss in the spinach. Cover and cook just until the spinach shrinks down, about 3 minutes.
05 - Add the penne into the sauce, stir in mozzarella, and sprinkle parsley leaves. Stir everything together, then turn off the heat.
06 - Scoop portions onto plates and top with parmesan and extra parsley as desired. Enjoy while warm!

# Notes:

01 - Undercook pasta slightly (al dente) for better texture.
02 - Use a heavy-bottom pan to combine everything easily.
03 - Dice vegetables evenly so they cook at the same speed.