Southwest Pasta
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish featuring chili, cheese, and vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting family meal with bold southwestern flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare macaroni according to the package directions and drain.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped green pepper and onion; cook until tender but not browned.
- Add chili with beans, drained corn, seasoned salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Cover and heat on low for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or milk when combining the macaroni with the chili mixture. You can easily substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile. If you want a bit more heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This dish can also be adapted to suit vegetarian recipes by using meatless chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Southwest Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top adds a nice creaminess. This dish pairs beautifully with the Inside-Out Caramel Apples for dessert, creating a well-rounded dining experience. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Southwest Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally until heated through. Ensure it's heated to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwest Pasta contains roughly 2267 calories, with 13g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 224g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 949mg per serving (41% 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 use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili mixture and cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, combine them and heat through. This makes for a quick weeknight meal, especially if you're short on time.
Can I freeze Southwest Pasta?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned before for best results.
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).