Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering fiesta of flavors! This Cheesy Chicken Southwest Pasta Casserole isn't just another weeknight meal - it's a culinary adventure that combines the bold, zesty essence of Southwest cuisine with the comforting embrace of cheesy, hearty pasta. Perfect for busy families, hungry crowds, or anyone craving a dish that delivers maximum taste with minimal effort, this recipe will become your new go-to comfort food that promises to tantalize every single taste bud.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, drained and rinsed black beans, corn, salsa, chili powder, and cumin. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices.
- Add the cooked pasta to the chicken mixture and gently stir to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the first layer.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture on top of the cheese layer, then top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced green onions.
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken or seasoning your chicken with additional Southwest spices before shredding.
- Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Use fresh salsa if possible for a brighter, more vibrant flavor profile.
- Feel free to customize the cheese blend - a mix of cheddar and pepper jack can add extra kick.
- If you want a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking to achieve a golden, crunchy cheese layer.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the penne with gluten-free pasta.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time to make assembly quick and easy on busy nights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
