Chicken Burrito Pasta Bake

The Chicken Burrito Pasta Bake is a vibrant, Tex-Mex inspired meal that brings the bold flavors of a burrito to a comforting pasta casserole. Featuring tender chicken, fiber-rich black beans, and a creamy salsa sauce, this dish is designed to be a hearty and satisfying weeknight dinner that comes together in just 45 minutes.

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This bake stands out because of its unique texture; the penne pasta catches the creamy sauce, while the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese create a bubbly, golden crust. It is a fantastic way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken while creating something that feels entirely new and exciting for the family table.

Ingredients

• 300 g (10 oz) penne or rigatoni pasta
• 2 cups (about 300 g) cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
• 1 can (400 g/15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup (150 g) corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups (500 ml) tomato salsa (mild or spicy)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional garnishes: Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish (about 9x13 inches / 23x33 cm).

Step 2

Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 4

Add the cooked chicken, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 2 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in salsa and sour cream until combined. Remove from heat.

Step 6

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the chicken and bean mixture. Add 1 cup cheddar and 1/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese, stirring to combine.

Step 7

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.

Step 8

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9

Let rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with cilantro, jalapeños, and lime wedges, if desired. Serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, cook your pasta until it is just al dente, as it will continue to soften while soaking up the salsa and sour cream mixture in the oven. Always let the dish rest for at least five minutes after removing it from the oven; this helps the cheese set and makes the pasta easier to serve. If using frozen corn, there is no need to thaw it beforehand as it will cook through during the sauté and bake steps.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily customize this bake to suit your preferences. For a spicier version, use a hot salsa or stir chopped jalapeños directly into the filling. If you don't have chicken on hand, cooked turkey or seasoned ground beef work as excellent substitutes. To make this dish gluten-free, simply use your favorite gluten-free penne or rigatoni pasta.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this hearty bake warm, topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños for a fresh contrast to the melted cheese. A squeeze of fresh lime juice over each portion adds a bright acidity that perfectly complements the Tex-Mex spices. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple side salad or a scoop of guacamole.

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Whether you are feeding a hungry family or looking for a reliable meal-prep option, the Chicken Burrito Pasta Bake is a flavorful and dependable choice. Its combination of simple ingredients and easy steps makes it a recipe you will return to time and time again.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pasta bake up to 24 hours in advance. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake directly from cold, adding 5-10 minutes to cooking time until cheese is melted and bubbly.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

Ground beef, cooked turkey, or shredded pork work excellently. Use the same quantity (2 cups cooked) for consistent results. For vegetarian options, add extra beans or crispy tofu.

→ How do I make this spicier?

Use hot salsa instead of mild, increase chili powder to 2 teaspoons, add diced jalapeños to the filling, or top with sliced jalapeños before baking. Adjust heat gradually to your preference.

→ How long do leftovers keep?

Refrigerate covered leftovers for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent excessive browning. Frozen portions last up to 2 months.

→ Can I use fresh cilantro in the mixture instead of garnish?

Absolutely. Mix 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro into the chicken mixture before combining with pasta. Save additional cilantro for garnish to brighten each serving.

→ What pasta shapes work best?

Penne and rigatoni are ideal for trapping sauce. Farfalle and fusilli also work well. Avoid thin pasta like spaghetti, which becomes mushy when baked.