Cheesy Hatch Chili Pasta Bake

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a hearty pasta bake. The Hatch Chili Cheesy Pasta Bake is a perfect embodiment of this genre, offering a delightful combination of creamy textures and bold flavors that warm the soul. This dish is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about enjoying a symphony of tastes and aromas that bring families together around the dinner table. With its rich, cheesy goodness and a hint of spice from the iconic Hatch green chilies, this pasta bake is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Discover the deliciousness of Hatch Chili Cheesy Pasta Bake, a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe beautifully combines creamy cheeses with the unique flavors of Hatch green chilies, offering a mild spice that enhances any meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can whip up this hearty bake in no time. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight or a special occasion, this pasta bake will delight your taste buds and bring everyone together at the table.

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Ingredients

12 oz elbow macaroni

1 cup diced Hatch green chilies (fresh or canned)

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

1 cup cream cheese, softened

2 cups milk

1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

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

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

Make Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream cheese, milk, and broth. Whisk until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Add Chilies and Cheese: Once the sauce is well-combined and warm, fold in the diced Hatch chilies, sharp cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted completely.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is evenly coated.

Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a bit of olive oil, then sprinkle over the top of the pasta bake to create a crispy topping.

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

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, spicy delight!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 servings