Best 4 Southwest Pasta Bake Recipes
**Savor the tantalizing flavors of the Southwest in a hearty pasta bake that bursts with vibrant ingredients and bold spices. This delectable dish combines tender pasta, succulent chicken, a medley of colorful vegetables, a creamy and flavorful sauce, and a delightful blend of Southwestern seasonings. With three variations to choose from, there's a perfect Southwest pasta bake for every palate. Indulge in the classic version, featuring a rich tomato-based sauce, or explore the enticing green chile sauce variation for a zesty twist. If you prefer a vegetarian option, the meatless version offers a symphony of vegetables and a creamy white sauce that is simply irresistible. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of the Southwest with these delightful pasta bake recipes.**
Here are our top 4 tried and tested recipes!
SOUTHWEST CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA BAKE RECIPE BY TASTY
Here's what you need: fusilli pasta, corn, black beans, cooked chicken, alfredo sauce, taco seasoning, monterey jack cheese, cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro
Provided by Claire Nolan
Categories Dinner
Yield 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350˚F (180˚C)
- Cook the fusilli pasta according to box instructions. This will make about 4½ cups (900g) of cooked pasta.
- In a large bowl, mix together cooked pasta, corn, black beans, cooked chicken, alfredo sauce, and taco seasoning.
- Pour into a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan and spread evenly around the pan.
- Sprinkle Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the top and cover with foil.
- Bake for 35 minutes, uncovering after 20 minutes to allow the cheese to brown.
- Garnish with cilantro.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 486 calories, Carbohydrate 34 grams, Fat 25 grams, Fiber 3 grams, Protein 31 grams, Sugar 3 grams
SOUTHWEST PASTA BAKE
Fat-free cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar make this creamy casserole lower in fat and calories. It's a good way to get our kids to eat spinach in "disguise". -Carol Lepak of Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Dinner
Time 55m
Yield 8 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 15
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Beat in milk. Stir in spinach and oregano; set aside. , In a nonstick skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Drain. Stir in the picante sauce, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder and cumin; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Drain pasta; stir into meat mixture., In a 13x9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray, layer half of the meat mixture and all of the spinach mixture. Top with remaining meat mixture. , Cover and bake at 350° for 30 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle with cheese. Bake 5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with olives and onions. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 341 calories, Fat 10g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 49mg cholesterol, Sodium 870mg sodium, Carbohydrate 37g carbohydrate (10g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges
SOUTHWEST CREAMY PASTA BAKE
"I like to cook a package of boneless chicken breasts in the microwave, then dice it up and store in freezer bags. On hectic nights, just pull one out and thaw in the microwave for a real timesaver with quick, tasty recipes like this." Patty Putter - Marion, Kansas
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Dinner
Time 50m
Yield 8 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Drain pasta; stir into chicken mixture. , Transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 550 calories, Fat 26g fat (15g saturated fat), Cholesterol 109mg cholesterol, Sodium 1103mg sodium, Carbohydrate 44g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 30g protein.
SOUTHWEST PASTA BAKE RECIPE - (4.8/5)
Provided by CandyH
Number Of Ingredients 15
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Beat in milk. Stir in spinach and oregano; set aside. 2. In a nonstick skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Drain. Stir in the picante sauce, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder and cumin; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Drain pasta; stir into meat mixture. 3. In a 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray, layer half of the meat mixture and all of the spinach mixture. Top with remaining meat mixture. 4. Cover and bake at 350° for 30 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle with cheese. Bake 5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with olives and onions. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Yield: 8 servings.
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables, flavorful cheeses, and tender pasta will make all the difference in your pasta bake. Choose the best ingredients you can find to ensure a delicious dish.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is the perfect texture for a pasta bake. If you overcook it, it will become mushy and ruin the dish.
- Use a variety of cheeses: A combination of cheeses will give your pasta bake a rich and complex flavor. Try using a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: There are endless possibilities when it comes to pasta bakes. Feel free to add your own favorite ingredients and create a dish that is uniquely yours.
Conclusion:
Pasta bakes are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. With so many different variations to choose from, there is sure to be a pasta bake recipe that everyone will love. Next time you're looking for an easy and satisfying meal, give one of these pasta bake recipes a try.
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