Craving a dinner that’s quick to whip up, packed with flavor, and doesn’t leave you feeling guilty? Look no further! Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta is your answer. Imagine creamy Alfredo sauce, infused with the smoky, vibrant flavors of the Southwest, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s a dish that satisfies your taste buds and fits seamlessly into a busy weeknight. I created this recipe because, like you, I’m busy, but I refuse to sacrifice delicious, wholesome meals.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Growing up, my family would always take road trips through Arizona and New Mexico. The smoky smell of chilies roasting in the air, the bright colors of the desert sunsets – it always felt like home. Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta tries to capture a bit of that memory, blending the cozy comfort of creamy pasta with the bold, unforgettable flavors of the Southwest. Every bite is a little reminder of those adventures!
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Chicken:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Southwest Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped roasted red peppers (from a jar), drained
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1-2 tablespoons adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped green onions
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- A dollop of sour cream
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic ad cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Stir in roasted red peppers, cilantro and adobo sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and grated Parmesan cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess!
Conclusion
Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic ad cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Stir in roasted red peppers, cilantro and adobo sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and grated Parmesan cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess!
Notes
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