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Spicy Queso Protein Pasta

Spicy Queso Protein Pasta

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free pasta)

Description

Spicy Queso Protein Pasta is a creamy, bold-flavored dish combining a spicy queso cheese sauce with high-quality protein and pasta. It offers a perfect balance of heat, comforting cheese, and protein-packed nutrition, ideal for a quick weeknight meal or casual gatherings. Customizable in spice level and protein choice, this pasta recipe delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

  • Whole grain or protein-enriched pasta of choice (about 12 oz)
  • Grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or plant-based protein (about 1 lb)

Queso Sauce

  • Queso cheese (8 oz creamy queso blend)
  • 1–2 fresh or pickled jalapeños or chili peppers, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Salt to taste
  • Reserved pasta water (about 1 cup, as needed)

Garnishes and Flavor Enhancers

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Extra queso or shredded cheese for topping (optional)

Optional Variations Ingredients

  • Sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables (for vegetarian version)
  • Vegan queso cheese and plant-based protein (for dairy-free/vegan option)
  • Chipotle peppers or hot sauce (for extra spicy version)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for the sauce.
  2. Prepare the Protein: Season your selected protein (chicken, shrimp, or plant-based) with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat a skillet with a little oil over medium-high heat and cook the protein until fully cooked and browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Make the Spicy Queso Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic and chopped onions until fragrant and translucent. Add chopped jalapeños or chili peppers and cook briefly. Stir in the queso cheese continuously, slowly adding reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy, smooth sauce with your desired consistency.
  4. Combine and Season: Return the cooked protein to the skillet with the queso sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss thoroughly to coat all pasta. Season with cumin, additional black pepper, and squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture to brighten flavors.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top and add extra queso or shredded cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce thickness and help it cling better to the pasta.
  • Cook protein separately for even cooking and a nice sear.
  • Use fresh jalapeños or chilies and adjust spice level to your preference.
  • Melt queso cheese gently over low heat to prevent curdling.
  • Add lime juice to balance and brighten the rich, spicy sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Find it online: https://cooktune.com/spicy-queso-protein-pasta/