This Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta is a creamy, spicy twist on classic pasta. With penne noodles, rich Alfredo sauce, and a kick of Southwest flavors, it’s sure to please!
Honestly, who can resist pasta smothered in creamy sauce? I love adding some grilled chicken or veggies for a tasty meal. Plus, it’s done in a snap—hello, easy dinner night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This pasta shape is perfect for holding sauce, but you can easily swap it with rotini or farfalle if you prefer. Just keep an eye on cooking times!
Chicken Breast: You can replace diced chicken breast with cooked shrimp or even sautéed veggies if you’re looking for a meatless option. It’s a great way to make this dish suit your taste!
Spices: Chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin pack in that Southwest flavor. Don’t have them on hand? Taco seasoning works well as a substitute too. Just adjust to your spice preference!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut milk, though it might alter the flavor a bit. I love the richness of the heavy cream, but it’s good to keep options open.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan are the stars here, but feel free to mix it up with some cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick. Cheese is personal, so choose what you love!
How Do You Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Getting that creamy, delicious sauce is key to this dish. Here’s how to make sure it’s perfect:
- Start by cooking the pasta until al dente—this helps it not get mushy when added to the sauce.
- When cooking the chicken, make sure it’s evenly coated with the spices for a balanced flavor. Don’t rush it; let it brown nicely!
- When you add the cream and chicken broth, keep stirring to combine. This helps prevent any lumps from the cheese.
- Gradually incorporate the cheese into the sauce. This slow addition allows it to melt smoothly, giving you that creamy texture.
If the sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit more chicken broth until you reach your desired creaminess!
How to Make Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Chicken and Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Extra Flavor:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta will take about 20 minutes of preparation and cooking time. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or any time you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast to the pan. Sprinkle the chicken with chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Add Garlic to the Mix:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your dish!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine everything. This is where the magic happens—the creamy goodness!
5. Melt the Cheese:
Gradually add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Keep an eye on it and adjust the heat if needed to avoid scorching!
6. Add Spinach:
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it’s just wilted, about 2 minutes. This adds a lovely color and nutritional boost to your pasta.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy Southwest Alfredo sauce. This is when it all comes together!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the pasta and top it with diced fresh tomato and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for that fresh finish. It adds a lovely touch of flavor and makes it look beautiful!
9. Enjoy!
Savor your creamy, flavorful Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta! It’s a dish that is sure to impress both your family and friends. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as rotini or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and replacing it with a mix of your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Sauté them in the same way you would the chicken for a flavorful alternative!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, stir everything together in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
