Pecos Pasta
Pecos Pasta is a hearty, cheesy casserole combining pasta, chili, vegetables, and melted cheese—perfect for quick weeknight dinners or comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain.
- In a large skillet, melt butter; add chopped green pepper and onion.
- Cook until tender, without browning.
- Add Hormel chili with beans, drained corn, seasoned salt, and pepper.
- Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
- Stir in cooked macaroni; top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Cover and heat on low for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream when combining the ingredients. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also substitute the elbow macaroni with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to use your favorite brand of chili if you want to customize the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Pecos Pasta with a side salad for a well-rounded meal, or enjoy it alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For an extra crunch, top with crushed tortilla chips. This dish pairs beautifully with Harry'S Cream Cheese Pound Cake for dessert, offering a delightful contrast to the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecos Pasta contains roughly 109 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1366mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this Pecos Pasta vegetarian by using a meatless chili. Look for canned chili that is labeled as vegetarian or use your homemade chili recipe. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the pasta and chili mixture, but hold off on adding the cheese until you're ready to bake. When you're ready to serve, just heat it up and top with cheese!
What can I serve with Pecos Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed vegetables can balance the richness of the pasta. For a comforting touch, consider serving it with cornbread or biscuits. You might also enjoy it alongside Pineapple Cheese Pie for a sweet finish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).