Bold Southwest Penne Pasta Recipe for Flavor Lovers

The aroma of Southwest Penne Pasta wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses with its bold flavors and vibrant colors. Picture a creamy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked penne, kissed by the warmth of spices and a medley of fresh vegetables that dance on your tongue. keto-friendly cucumber salad It’s a dish that promises to elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary in mere minutes. For more inspiration, check out this strawberry spinach salad recipe.

this …

Growing up, family gatherings often featured my mom’s famous Southwest Penne Pasta, served with laughter and a side of her infamous “dance while you cook” routine. I still remember my uncle claiming he could handle the heat – only to be defeated by the spicy kick of jalapeños. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive occasions where you want to impress without breaking a sweat.

I once surprised my friends with this dish at a potluck, and let me tell you, they were lining up for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Penne Pasta: Opt for whole grain or gluten-free for healthier alternatives that don’t compromise texture.
• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy sauce that binds everything together beautifully.
• Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled, these add a lovely kick; adjust based on your heat tolerance.
• Black Beans: Canned black beans are convenient; just rinse them well before adding for added protein.
• Red Bell Pepper: This adds sweetness and crunch; choose firm peppers with shiny skin for the best flavor.
• Onion: A yellow onion works wonders here; sauté until caramelized for extra depth.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic punch; don’t be shy about using more if you love garlic!
• Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is fine, but homemade blends allow control over spices and salt levels.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar enhances flavor; sprinkle on top before serving for melty goodness.
• Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds brightness; use it as a garnish if you’re feeling fancy.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, but don’t forget to save some pasta water!

Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and toss in diced onions. Sauté until they turn golden and fragrant. Then add minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do.

Add the Good Stuff

Stir in chopped red bell pepper and jalapeños, cooking until they soften slightly. This step releases their sweet and spicy notes into your dish—a delightful combination!

Create the Sauce

Lower the heat and mix in cream cheese until melted. Gradually add black beans while stirring gently to combine everything smoothly. If it seems too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until desired creaminess is achieved.

Toss Everything Together!

Add cooked penne into the skillet with the veggie-cream cheese mixture. Toss everything together until each piece of pasta is coated in that dreamy sauce—your kitchen will smell divine!

Serve it Up!

Transfer your vibrant creation onto plates or into bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro if desired! Serve immediately while hot so everyone can enjoy that gooey cheesiness. nutritious quinoa bowls.

This Southwest Penne Pasta recipe encapsulates flavors reminiscent of warm summer nights spent laughing with loved ones around the dinner table. grilled chicken with salsa It brings comfort while being easy enough for any home cook to master—even those who might accidentally burn toast! Enjoy every bite! nectarine flatbread recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect results, start by cooking the pasta al dente. While it’s boiling, sauté your veggies and protein in a separate pan to maximize flavor and efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish by swapping in your favorite vegetables or proteins. Add some black beans for extra fiber or sprinkle feta cheese on top for a creamy twist. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

Cooking this Southwest Penne Pasta always brings back memories of family dinners where laughter blended with delicious aromas wafting through the kitchen.

FAQ

Can I make Southwest Penne Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead but add fresh ingredients before serving for best taste.

What can I substitute for penne pasta?

Feel free to use any pasta shape like fusilli or farfalle for variety in texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It holds up well in the fridge and is great for lunch throughout the week.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Southwest Penne Pasta

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Emma Taylor
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Southwest Penne Pasta is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that combines creamy goodness with a kick of spice. This quick and easy recipe features perfectly cooked penne enveloped in a rich sauce, complemented by fresh vegetables and zesty jalapeños. Ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this dish promises to impress without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. With its colorful ingredients and customizable options, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 jalapeño, diced (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare pasta by boiling salted water and cooking penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion in olive oil until golden. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Incorporate red bell pepper and jalapeños; cook until softened.
4. Lower heat, mix in cream cheese until melted. Gradually stir in black beans; adjust consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
5. Combine cooked penne with the veggie mixture, ensuring each piece is coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with cheddar cheese and cilantro if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Southwest

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 57g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 40mg