Cheesy Pasta with Cilantro for a Quick Dinner

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Cheesy Pasta with Cilantro is the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner when you crave comfort food that’s quick and satisfying. With wide pasta enveloped in gooey melted cheese and topped with fresh cilantro, this dish is not only easy to whip up but also packs a flavorful punch. Add a hint of spice with jalapeños, and you’ve got a dinner that hits all the right notes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser that combines creamy textures with a zesty finish. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

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Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
Comforting: Creamy cheese and pasta make for a satisfying meal.
Flavorful: Fresh cilantro and jalapeños add a delightful kick.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking.

Ingredients

8 ounces wide pasta (like pappardelle or fettuccine)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1-2 jalapeños, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Water for boiling pasta

How to Make Cheesy Pasta with Cilantro

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the wide pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced jalapeños and sauté for 1-2 minutes until they soften.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Mix until the sour cream is fully incorporated, then add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy.
Add the drained pasta to the pot and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the cheesy mixture. If it seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Remove from heat and fold in the chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

For an extra creamy texture, use a combination of cheddar and cream cheese.
Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
Always taste and adjust seasoning after combining all ingredients.

Easy Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
Swap cilantro for parsley or basil if you prefer a different herb flavor.

What to Serve With It

A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Garlic bread for a hearty side.
Steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans for a colorful plate.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Cheesy Pasta with Cilantro
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:

8 ounces wide pasta (like pappardelle or fettuccine)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1-2 jalapeños, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Water for boiling pasta

Instructions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the wide pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced jalapeños and sauté for 1-2 minutes until they soften.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Mix until the sour cream is fully incorporated, then add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy.
Add the drained pasta to the pot and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the cheesy mixture. If it seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Remove from heat and fold in the chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

📚 RECIPE LOVER FINDS