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If you're looking for a dish that perfectly marries comfort and flavor, look no further than the Hatch Chili Turkey Pasta Bake. This delightful recipe combines the savory notes of ground turkey with the unique zest of Hatch green chilies, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy pasta bake that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. It's the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Hatch Chili Turkey Pasta Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Savory Hatch Chili Turkey Pasta Bake. This dish features a delightful blend of ground turkey, creamy cheeses, and the vibrant flavor of Hatch green chiles, making it perfect for family dinners. Easy to make, it’s a flavorful concoction that balances savory, cheesy goodness with a hint of spice. Ideal for weeknight meals or gatherings, this pasta bake is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters at your table. Cook it up for a warm, satisfying experience that brings everyone together.

Ingredients
  

8 oz penne pasta

1 lb ground turkey

1 cup Hatch green chilies, diced (canned or fresh)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Olive oil for cooking

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

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

      Sauté the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

        Brown the Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, as well as salt and pepper. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

          Mix in the Chilies and Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and Hatch green chilies. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

            Combine Pasta and Turkey Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the turkey mixture. Stir until well combined.

              Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

                Cheese it Up: Sprinkle the Monterey Jack cheese and cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.

                  Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                    Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious and comforting Hatch Chili Turkey Pasta Bake!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8