Cheesy Fajita Pasta

There’s something truly special about a dish that brings together comfort and flavor, and that’s exactly what Cheesy Fajita Pasta delivers. Picture this—you’ve had a long day, and all you want is a hearty meal that doesn’t take hours in the kitchen. That’s when I turn to this delightful dish, which combines the zest of fajitas with the creamy goodness of cheese and pasta. It’s become one of my go-to recipes, especially when the craving strikes for something fulfilling yet uncomplicated.

Every bite feels like a warm hug as the cheese melts into the pasta, and the vibrant bell peppers and onions add just the right crunch. I remember the first time I made it for friends; they were skeptical at first, thinking pasta was too plain. But once they took that first forkful, their eyes lit up with surprise and delight. The combination of flavors is not just satisfying; it’s a culinary adventure that transports you straight to a fiesta!

What I love about Cheesy Fajita Pasta is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings or cozy nights in. Whether you’re adding extra veggies or swapping out the protein, it always turns out delicious. So, let’s dive into how to create this scrumptious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Fajita Pasta

The ingredients in Cheesy Fajita Pasta are the backbone of its incredible flavor. Each component serves its purpose, creating a harmonious blend that’s both satisfying and delicious. The key players in this dish include shell pasta, which provides a great base, and various colorful vegetables that bring freshness and crunch. Let’s explore the essential ingredients that make this dish shine:

• 8 oz Shell Pasta: This hearty pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the delicious sauce and ingredients. Cooked to al dente, it provides a satisfying bite.
• 1/2 pound Red Onion: Sliced thin, this adds a sweet and slightly sharp flavor that caramelizes beautifully when sautéed.
• 1/2 Green Bell Pepper: Deseeded and sliced, this veggie contributes a crisp texture and fresh flavor that complements the dish.
• 1/2 Red Bell Pepper: Similar to the green bell pepper, but with a sweeter taste, it adds vibrant color and taste.
• 14.5 oz Petite Diced Tomatoes: These juicy tomatoes add moisture and richness to the dish, contributing to the overall flavor.
• 1 pound Precooked Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: I used white meat rotisserie chicken for convenience, which adds protein and makes the dish hearty.
• 1 packet Fajita Seasoning: This spice blend brings all the flavors of fajitas to the pasta, creating a deliciously seasoned dish.
• 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the sauce, it helps create a creamy texture that clings to the pasta.
• 1 cup Chicken Broth: Adding liquid and flavor, this ingredient ensures the sauce is rich and savory.
• 2/3 cup Mexican Style Blend Cheese: This cheesy goodness melts into the dish, making every bite creamy and indulgent.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance all the flavors in the dish.

The Method for Cheesy Fajita Pasta

Creating Cheesy Fajita Pasta is as enjoyable as eating it! The process is straightforward, and I promise that the results will have you and your loved ones asking for seconds. Here’s how to bring this dish to life:

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the shell pasta and cook according to the box directions until al dente. This typically takes about eight to ten minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, grab a large, deep-sided skillet and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Heat it over medium heat, and once warmed, add the red onion and both green and red bell peppers. Sauté these for about five minutes, or until the onions become mostly tender and fragrant.
3. Next, stir in the petite diced tomatoes, chicken, and fajita seasoning. Mix everything well so that the flavors meld together. Allow this to cook for another couple of minutes, letting the chicken warm through and the spices infuse into the veggies.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and chicken broth until smooth and there are no lumps. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring continuously. You’ll want to bring it to a gentle boil, which will help to thicken the sauce slightly.
5. Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked pasta and Mexican style blend cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together gently, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated in that creamy sauce. It should look inviting and delicious!
6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference. Now it’s time to serve—divide the pasta into four even portions and plate them up. You can garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs if you like.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about Cheesy Fajita Pasta is how easily it can be customized to suit your taste! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack for a zesty flavor or a sharp cheddar for more depth.
• Protein Options: Switch out the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.
• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and increase the amount of veggies or add beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Serving Style: Serve this pasta dish in a bowl topped with fresh cilantro or avocado slices to elevate the look and flavor.

What to Pair With Cheesy Fajita Pasta

Pairing Cheesy Fajita Pasta with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some suggestions to complement this delicious dish:

• Garlic Bread: A warm serving of garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Side Salad: A light, fresh salad can balance out the richness of the pasta. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled asparagus or zucchini can add a nice char and flavor contrast to the dish.
• Rice: Serving Cheesy Fajita Pasta alongside some Mexican rice can make for a filling and satisfying meal.
• Occasions: This pasta is perfect for casual weeknight dinners, gatherings with friends, or even themed dinner parties.
• Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy this dish during the summer months alongside a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade.

FAQ

Conclusion

Cheesy Fajita Pasta is a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and vibrant spices, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. I encourage you to give it a try—you won’t be disappointed! Gather your ingredients and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal tonight.

Cheesy Fajita Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Cheesy Fajita Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. With tender pasta, sautéed vegetables, and a cheesy blend, this dish satisfies cravings and is sure to impress. Make it tonight for a delightful family meal!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 457

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 oz Shell Pasta
• 1/2 pound Red Onion Sliced thin
• 1/2 Green Bell Pepper Deseeded and sliced
• 1/2 Red Bell Pepper Deseeded and sliced
• 14.5 oz Petite Diced Tomatoes 1 can
• 1 pound Precooked Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast I used white meat rotisserie chicken with skin and bones removed
• 1 packet Fajita Seasoning 1/4 cup
• 1 tablespoon All Purpose Flour
• 1 cup Chicken Broth
• 2/3 cup Mexican Style Blend Cheese Grated
• Salt & Pepper To taste

Equipment

• Skillet
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Blender
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Bring large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to box directions. Drain and set aside.
2. While pasta is cooking, spray a large, deep sided skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Sauté onions and peppers over medium heat until onions are mostly tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, chicken, and fajita seasoning.
3. In a small bowl, whisk flour together with chicken broth until incorporated and there are no lumps. Pour into the pan and bring to boil to thicken sauce slightly.
4. Add pasta and cheese to the pan and stir to coat well. Sprinkle with salt and pepper if needed, divide into four even portions and serve.

Notes

• Tip 1: The more accurate macros for 1 serving (1/4 of this recipe) are as follows: 457 calories, 8.7g F/58.7g C/37g P.

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Meet Molly Brooks

I love mixing nostalgic flavors with fun, fresh twists. My goal is to make cooking the best part of your day. I loved making this recipe, and I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home!