Best 2 Southwestern Pasta Cheese Recipes

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Welcome to the world of flavors, where southwestern cuisine and cheesy pasta collide to create a symphony of taste. If you're seeking a dish that captures the vibrant spirit of the southwest while comforting you with cheesy goodness, then look no further. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of creating a mouthwatering southwestern pasta cheese dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

SOUTHWESTERN PASTA & CHEESE



Southwestern Pasta & Cheese image

"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. Naomi Reed - McMinnville, Oregon

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 50m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 13

3-1/3 cups uncooked bow tie pasta
1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped
8 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
2-1/4 cups fat-free milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
4 center-cut bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro

Steps:

  • 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° for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 240 calories, Fat 8g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 20mg cholesterol, Sodium 327mg sodium, Carbohydrate 32g carbohydrate (6g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 12g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

SOUTHWESTERN PASTA & CHEESE



Southwestern Pasta & Cheese image

From Taste of Home's Healthy Cooking Magazine. Naomi Reed of McMinnville Oregon wrote, "I gave mac and cheese a twist by adding some favorite ingredients. My family absolutely loves this side dish."

Provided by Shelby Jo

Categories     Spicy

Time 50m

Yield 8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 13

3 1/3 cups uncooked bow tie pasta
1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped
8 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon chipotle chile in adobo, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cumin
2 1/4 cups nonfat milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
4 slices center-cut bacon, strips cooked and crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced

Steps:

  • 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, cumin, salt, and chipotle pepper 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 quart baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.

Tips:

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. If possible, use organic or locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Don't overcook the pasta. Cook it al dente according to the package instructions.
  • Use a good quality cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack. You can also use a combination of cheeses.
  • Add some vegetables to the pasta for a healthy and colorful meal. Some good options include broccoli, bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
  • Season the pasta to taste with salt, pepper, and other spices. You can also add a splash of hot sauce or chili powder for a little extra kick.
  • Serve the pasta immediately with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.

Conclusion:

Southwestern pasta with cheese is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. With its creamy, flavorful sauce and hearty ingredients, this pasta dish is sure to please everyone at the table. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, give this Southwestern pasta recipe a try.

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