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To create a truly memorable Spicy Hatch Chili Alfredo Pasta Bake, it’s essential to understand the key ingredients that come together to form this delectable dish. Each component plays a significant role in delivering flavor and texture, transforming simple pasta into a culinary delight.

Hatch Chili Alfredo Pasta Bake

Discover the richness of Spicy Hatch Chili Alfredo Pasta Bake, a comforting dish that beautifully balances creamy Alfredo sauce with the vibrant heat of Hatch chiles. This recipe features penne pasta enveloped in a velvety sauce, enhanced with a mix of spices and melty cheese. Perfect for family gatherings, it's easy to prepare and customize with added proteins like chicken or shrimp. Elevate your meals with this delightful twist on a classic comfort food that's sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup diced roasted Hatch chiles (fresh or canned)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)

1/2 cup bread crumbs (for topping)

Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp (for added protein)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted Hatch chiles, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the pasta mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly. If desired, fold in the cooked chicken or shrimp.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased (or buttered) 9x13 inch baking dish.

            Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the bread crumbs for a delicious crunchy topping.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8