Southwestern Pasta and Cheese Recipe
I decided to give my old mac 'n' cheese recipe a new twist by including some of my favorite Southwestern ingredients. I especially like the smoky flavors of the chipotle and bacon…my family loves it all! Serve with a salad or veggie.
I decided to give my old mac 'n' cheese recipe a new twist by including some of my favorite Southwestern ingredients. I especially like the smoky flavors of the chipotle and bacon…my family loves it all! Serve with a salad or veggie.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
- 1 medium sweet red pepper chopped
- 3-1/3 cups uncooked bow tie pasta
- 8 green onions chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
- 2-1/4 cups fat-free milk
- 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
- 4 center-cut bacon strips cooked and crumbled
- Carbohydrate 14.2197691703608 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.670990833562531 g
- Fiber 2.35830420816966 g
- Protein 1.78734500049226 g
- Saturated Fat 0.121338520865979 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (130g)
- Sodium 56.4763958965488 mg
- Sugar 11.8614649621912 g
- Trans Fat 0.09347308335416 g
- Calories 67 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute pepper and onions in oil until tender. Stir in the flour, chili powder, chipotle pepper, salt and cumin until blended.
- Gradually stir in milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
- Stir in 1/4 cup cheese until melted.
- Drain pasta; toss with sauce.
- Stir in bacon and cilantro.
- Transfer to a 2-qt. baking dish coated with cooking spray.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.
A Southwestern Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
As a busy working mom, I’m always on the lookout for quick and easy meals that the whole family will enjoy. Mac and cheese is a staple in our house, but sometimes, we crave a little something extra. That’s where this Southwestern Pasta and Cheese recipe comes in. It takes the creamy comfort of classic mac and cheese and adds a vibrant kick of Southwestern flavors that elevates it to a whole new level.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's incredibly easy to throw together, even on a weeknight when time is of the essence. The combination of smoky chipotle peppers, savory bacon, and sweet red peppers creates a delicious flavor profile that’s both satisfying and exciting. The sharp cheddar cheese provides that classic mac and cheese creaminess, while the cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness perfectly. I often serve this dish alongside a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables to add a bit of healthy contrast.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, peppers, or even add some black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. You could even swap the bacon for chorizo for a spicier kick. The possibilities are endless! It's a blank canvas, ready for your culinary creativity to take over.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that brings together familiar flavors in unexpected ways. It’s a testament to the joy of simple cooking and the magic of transforming everyday ingredients into something truly special. It's a recipe that's become a cherished part of our family's culinary traditions, and I'm thrilled to share it with you.
Beyond the Recipe:
This recipe isn't just about the delicious food; it's about the memories created while making and sharing it. I often involve my kids in the cooking process, letting them help measure ingredients or stir the sauce. It's a great way to teach them about cooking and spending quality time together. The aroma filling the kitchen as the dish bakes is almost as delightful as the taste itself. The happy chatter and shared laughter around the dinner table are the true ingredients that make this recipe complete.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian option: Omit the bacon and add some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Make it creamy: Use a combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Add some greens: Stir in some chopped spinach or kale at the end for added nutrients.
- Spice Level Adjustment: If the chipotle is too intense, reduce the amount or omit it entirely. You can also adjust the amount of chili powder to your preference.
- Pasta Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. Rotini, penne, or even farfalle would all work well.
This Southwestern Pasta and Cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in. The vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes a favorite in yours, too. Enjoy!
