Southwest Alfredo

Southwest Alfredo (Our Family’s “Favorite Pasta”)

If your family needs a new go-to dinner… THIS is it! Our Southwest Alfredo — originally shared by @Alexa.Anglin here — has officially taken over our house. I shared it on Instagram recently, and so many of you messaged me asking for the recipe. My girls don’t even call it Southwest Alfredo anymore… they just say:

“Mom, can we have our favorite pasta tonight?”

And honestly… same. 😂

We make this almost weekly because:

✔️ It’s quick
✔️ It’s creamy
✔️ It’s kid-friendly
✔️ EVERYONE actually agrees on it

A true unicorn meal. 🦄🍝

It’s simple, cozy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something that feels special without a lot of effort.

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Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast
• 8-12 oz Penne pasta (any amount you typically cook for your family)
• 2–3 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 can mild Rotel
• ½ – 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup Mexican cheese blend

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How to Make It

1. Cook the chicken.
Heat a little oil in a skillet, sprinkle taco seasoning on raw chicken front and back. Once covered, cook the chicken breast. Once done, remove it from the pan and set aside.

2. Build the creamy Southwest sauce.
In the same pan, stir in the heavy cream, scraping bits from the bottom of the pan. Once incorporated, add the can of mild Rotel. Add the Mexican cheese blend and let it melt into a smooth, creamy sauce.

3. Add the pasta + veggies.
Add in your cooked penne pasta, then toss in the fresh spinach. It will wilt perfectly in the warm sauce.

4. Bring it all together.
Add the chicken back into the pan and let everything simmer for a couple of minutes so the sauce thickens and coats the pasta. Add additional taco seasoning to the sauce based on taste.

Serve it up and watch everyone devour it — including the picky ones. 🙌

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Why We Love This Meal

• Comes together in under 20 minutes
• Uses pantry staples
• Easily customizable
• Perfect for leftovers (although we rarely have any!)

This is one of those meals I know I’ll be making for years — comforting, simple, and a guaranteed family win.

If you try it, let me know… or tag me on Instagram so I can drool over your version!

– Katie