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At the heart of this pasta skillet is the hatch green chile, a prized ingredient known for its distinctive flavor profile. Originating from the Hatch Valley in New Mexico, these chiles are celebrated for their mild to medium heat, which provides a gentle warmth without overwhelming the dish. Their unique taste is often described as earthy and slightly sweet, making them an excellent complement to a variety of ingredients. Whether you’re a chili aficionado or a newcomer, the versatility of hatch chiles can transform ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences.

Creamy Hatch Chili Pasta Skillet

Discover the deliciousness of Creamy Hatch Chili Pasta Skillet, a perfect blend of creamy cheese, roasted hatch green chiles, and hearty penne pasta. This comforting dish is easy to prepare, making it great for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Dive into the unique flavor of hatch chiles, known for their mild heat and earthy sweetness, and enjoy a meal that balances richness with bright cilantro and lime. Elevate your culinary repertoire with this tasty recipe!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups roasted hatch green chilies, diced (fresh or canned)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

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

    Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

      Add Chilies and Spices: Incorporate the diced hatch green chilies into the skillet. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

        Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and begins to simmer, about 2 minutes.

          Incorporate the Cheeses: Gradually add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

            Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing it gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

              Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 25 min | Serves 4