Name: TexMex Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 oz. pasta of choice ((penne or fusilli works beautifully)); 1 Recipe Chipotle Chicken ((optional)); 2 large red bell peppers ((roasted)); 1 small white onion ((quartered)); 4 cloves garlic ((roasted)); 1 tablespoon flour; 1 14.5 oz. low sodium chicken broth; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp chipotle chili powder; 1/4 tsp cumin; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp pepper; 8 oz. cream cheese; 3/4 cup black beans ((rinsed and drained)); 1 cup fresh spinach ((packed))

Are you ready to delight your taste buds with a dish that beautifully marries the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with the comforting essence of pasta? This TexMex Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is not only vibrant and delicious, but it also brings a wholesome twist to your weeknight meals. The creamy roasted red pepper sauce, enriched with spices, black beans, and fresh spinach, creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and perfect for a quick dinner or a gathering with friends. So let’s dive right into this flavorful dish!

The Upside of TexMex Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

This TexMex Roasted Red Pepper Pasta brings together the warmth of roasted red peppers and the comforting familiarity of pasta. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding protein like chicken, or keeping it vegetarian by loading it with veggies. Not only does it come together in just one pan, but it also packs a nutritious punch with black beans and fresh spinach. With its creamy texture and a hint of chipotle, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredient Breakdown

8 oz. pasta of choice – Choose your favorite pasta; penne or fusilli works beautifully.
1 Recipe Chipotle Chicken (optional) – For those who want to add protein, this will elevate the dish.
2 large red bell peppers – Sweet and smoky when roasted, they form the base of the sauce.
1 small white onion – Adds depth to the sauce with its natural sweetness.
4 garlic cloves – A must-have for flavor; roasted garlic adds a mellow sweetness.
1 tablespoon flour – To help thicken the sauce.
1 14.5 oz. low sodium chicken broth – The liquid base for the sauce, enhancing the flavor.
1/2 tsp EACH salt, chipotle chili powder – For seasoning and a kick of heat.
1/4 tsp EACH cumin, smoked paprika, pepper – These spices bring out the Tex-Mex profile.
8 oz. cream cheese – For a creamy, luscious sauce.
3/4 cup black beans – Rinsed and drained; they add protein and texture.
1 cup packed fresh spinach – A nutritious addition that wilts beautifully into the sauce.
Cilantro (optional) – For garnish, adding a fresh touch.

Recommended Tools

Large pot – For cooking the pasta.
Blender or food processor – To create a smooth sauce from the roasted vegetables.
Skillet – For combining the pasta with the sauce.
Spatula – For stirring and mixing ingredients.

Mastering TexMex Roasted Red Pepper Pasta: How-To

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved red bell peppers, quartered onion, and garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until the peppers are charred and tender.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Blend the Sauce

Once the vegetables are done roasting, transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add the flour, chicken broth, chipotle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Thicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the blended sauce. Add the cubed cream cheese and stir until melted and well incorporated.

Step 5: Add Beans and Spinach

Stir in the rinsed black beans and chopped spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt for a couple of minutes, mixing everything together.

Step 6: Mix with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve the TexMex Roasted Red Pepper Pasta hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy the vibrant colors and aromas as they fill your kitchen!

Quick Replacement Ideas

Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
Cream cheese: Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
Chicken broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
Black beans: Swap with kidney beans or chickpeas for variety.

What I Learned Testing

Roasting the peppers and onions truly enhances their sweetness, creating a rich flavor base.
Blending the sauce until smooth is key; it makes the dish velvety and luxurious.
Adding the beans boosts the protein content and adds a hearty texture.
This dish can easily be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

This TexMex Roasted Red Pepper Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Freezing is also an option; store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this pasta dish vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese or a cashew cream, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti work well. Choose a pasta shape that can hold onto the creamy sauce!

How spicy is this dish?

The level of spiciness depends on the amount of chipotle chili powder you use. Feel free to adjust it to your taste preference!

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can complement the flavors beautifully. Just sauté them before adding to the sauce.

One Pan, More Ideas

Vegetable Pasta – A delightful medley of seasonal vegetables.
Creamy Pasta with Broccoli – A simple yet delicious creamy pasta dish.
Easy Vegan Pasta – A quick and satisfying vegan meal.

See You at the Table

This TexMex Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that invites friends and family to gather around the table. The creamy sauce, the nutritious greens, and the hearty pasta come together to create a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you choose to spice it up with chipotle chicken or keep it vegetarian, this recipe is sure to please. So grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and let’s make mealtime memorable! Enjoy every delicious bite!