Why You’ll Love Preppable Fajita Pasta Bake Recipe
This pasta bake is warm, filling, and full of fajita flavor. It uses simple ingredients, comes together quickly, and bakes into a bubbly, cheesy dish the whole family can enjoy. It is also great for meal prep because you can assemble it ahead and bake it when needed.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 packet fajita seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
Directions
- Cook the pasta in salted water according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced peppers and onion, then cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and fajita seasoning.
- Add the salsa and chicken broth.
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken mixture.
- Transfer everything to a baking dish.
- Top with shredded Mexican blend cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
Use rotini, rigatoni, or shells instead of penne. Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder for more heat. Swap the chicken for cooked turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken. You can also stir in black beans, corn, or a spoonful of sour cream for extra flavor and texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot, or warm the pasta bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of broth before reheating if the pasta seems dry.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta such as penne, rotini, shells, or rigatoni works best because it holds the sauce well.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes. Leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
Can I make it spicier?
Yes. Add diced jalapeños, hot salsa, cayenne pepper, or extra chili powder.
Can I freeze this pasta bake?
Yes. Freeze it before baking, then bake from frozen with extra cooking time.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a taco cheese blend all work well.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta just until tender, since it will continue cooking slightly in the oven.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Corn, black beans, zucchini, mushrooms, or extra peppers are great additions.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes. It reheats well and can be portioned into containers for easy meals during the week.
What can I serve with fajita pasta bake?
Serve it with a simple salad, garlic bread, sour cream, guacamole, or tortilla chips.
Conclusion
Preppable Fajita Pasta Bake is an easy, flavorful dinner that brings together pasta, chicken, peppers, salsa, and melted cheese in one comforting dish. It is simple enough for a weeknight, hearty enough for a family meal, and convenient enough to make ahead.
Preppable Fajita Pasta Bake
A flavorful and comforting fajita pasta bake packed with seasoned chicken, peppers, and a cheesy finish. Perfect for meal prep and easy weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet fajita seasoning
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add peppers and onion, cooking until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in cooked chicken and fajita seasoning, mixing well.
- Add diced tomatoes, sour cream, and cream cheese. Stir until fully combined and creamy.
- Fold in the cooked pasta and mix until evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with cilantro if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Add jalapeños or chili flakes for extra heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
