Tag: pasta

If you love classic Chicken Alfredo but crave a little extra kick, this Southwest Chicken Alfredo is for you! Creamy, cheesy, and full of bold flavor, this easy pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. Chicken Breasts, cut into 1” strips
• 1/2 lb. Penne Pasta
• 1 (15oz.) can Diced Tomatoes
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 1/2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Onion, chopped
• 4 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon Honey
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 tablespoon Butter
• 2 tablespoons Cilantro, chopped

Southwest Seasoning:

• 1 1/2 teaspoon Chili Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon Oregano
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/8 teaspoon Cayenne
  

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the southwest seasoning blend together

2. Add cut chicken to a large bowl and drizzle in honey and the seasoning blend. Toss to combine

3. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Transfer to a plate

5. In the same skillet, add onion and butter. Cook for a few minutes until tender. Add garlic and cook another minute. Add diced tomatoes and bring to a low simmer.

6. Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring until fully incorporated. Bring to a nice simmer. Add chicken back to the skillet. Sprinkle in cheddar cheese and stir to combine. Add penne pasta to the sauce and toss to combine. Remove pasta from heat and let sit a few minutes.

7. Top with fresh cilantro and extra cheese if desired. Serve immediately!

Tips & Variations:

Swap penne for fettuccine for a classic Alfredo feel. Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra heat. Want more veggies? Add sautéed bell peppers or corn for a true Southwest vibe.

Cookware I Used:

I made this using my favorite nonstick pots and pans set—it’s a game changer in the kitchen!

👉 Check it out here (affiliate link)

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and family-approved, this Creamy Southwest Chicken Alfredo is a must-try! It’s the perfect way to bring a little spice to your weeknight meal rotation without spending hours in the kitchen.

🎥 Watch the full recipe video here: https://youtube.com/shorts/I1lqrveSLow?si=xC0GFxJVWcnJaVej

If you enjoyed this recipe, make sure to subscribe for more quick, easy, and delicious meals for busy people just like you. Let’s make weeknight dinners stress-free together!

Quick, creamy comfort food with a kick!

If you’re short on time but still want to serve something comforting and packed with flavor, this Spicy Smoked Sausage Alfredo Bake is about to be your new go-to. It comes together with simple ingredients, has just the right amount of spice, and delivers that cheesy, cozy goodness we all crave after a long day.

🎥 Want to see it in action?

Click here to watch the full video on YouTube!

I’ll walk you through the steps, share tips, and show you how easy it is to get that bubbly, cheesy top every time.

Why You’ll Love It

• One pan for the sauce, one dish to bake.
• Easy to make ahead and broil when you’re ready.
• Customizable: turn up the heat or make it kid-friendly!

Ingredients

• 16 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
• 3 Tbsp butter
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 Tbsp flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups half-and-half
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella (divided)
• 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about a minute.

3. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux.

4. Slowly pour in chicken broth and half-and-half, whisking until smooth. Simmer until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).

5. Season with salt, pepper, cayenne, and red pepper flakes (if using).

6. Stir in the Parmesan and 1 cup of mozzarella until melted and creamy.

7. Add sausage and parsley. Stir in the cooked pasta until fully coated.

8. Pour into a greased 9×13” baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella.

9. Broil for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!

Make It Your Own

• Milder version? Skip the cayenne and red pepper flakes.
• Lighter option? Use smoked turkey sausage.
• Veggie boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or chopped bell peppers.
• Make-ahead tip: Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and broil right before serving.

This dish is a total crowd-pleaser and perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a simple green salad.

📌 Don’t forget to save this recipe and tag @FromWorktoTable if you give it a try! I love seeing your recreations.

📺 Watch the full recipe video here → Spicy Smoked Sausage Alfredo bake