Easy Mexican Alfredo Recipe: A Quick and Delicious Twist on Classic Alfredo
If you’re looking for a simple, quick, and flavorful dinner, this Mexican Alfredo is the perfect solution! Combining the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the bold flavors of taco seasoning, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Plus, it’s so easy that even toddlers could help in the kitchen! Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken breast – Boneless, skinless, and cut into chunks.
- Pasta – Any kind of pasta will work, but penne or fettuccine are great choices.
- Alfredo sauce – A jar of your favorite Alfredo sauce, or homemade if you prefer.
- Taco seasoning – This is the secret ingredient that gives the dish its Mexican flair.
- Shredded cheese – A good melty cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or even Hatch cheese (if you can find it) for an extra kick.
- Olive oil – For sautéing the chicken.
- Black pepper – To finish with a little extra seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized chunks. Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté until fully cooked and browned, about 6-8 minutes. Once the chicken is cooked through, sprinkle half a packet of taco seasoning over the chicken and stir to coat evenly. This will infuse the chicken with that signature taco flavor. - Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 5-8 minutes. Be sure to drain the pasta but keep a little pasta water on hand in case the sauce needs to be thinned later. - Make the Alfredo Sauce
Once the chicken is ready, add a jar of Alfredo sauce to the pan with the chicken. Stir in the remaining taco seasoning, ensuring the sauce is fully incorporated with the chicken. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together. - Melt the Cheese
Next, add about 1 cup of shredded cheese to the sauce and stir until it melts completely. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a small amount of pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency. - Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy Alfredo mixture and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the cheesy, flavorful sauce. - Finish and Serve
Season the dish with black pepper to taste. Give everything one final stir, and your Mexican Alfredo is ready to serve!
Tips for the Perfect Mexican Alfredo:
- Add some spice – If you like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Customize the protein – You can easily swap out the chicken for ground beef, shrimp, or even a vegetarian option like black beans.
- Cheese options – For extra flavor, try using Mexican blend cheese or even Queso Fresco for a unique twist.
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Alfredo:
- Quick and easy – With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe comes together in no time.
- Family-friendly – It’s a great dish for picky eaters or toddlers who want to help in the kitchen.
- Flavorful – The combination of creamy Alfredo and taco seasoning creates a rich, savory flavor that’s sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Whether you’re craving something creamy and comforting or want to add a little kick to your regular Alfredo recipe, this Mexican Alfredo is the perfect go-to. You can make it in less than 30 minutes, and it’s packed with bold, savory flavors. Enjoy!