Pasta Archives - Shoppin' Buggy Recipes

Easy One-Pan Taco Hamburger Helper

Angie — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 14:19:08 +0000

This Easy One-Pan Taco Hamburger Helper is a creamy, flavorful, semi-homemade dinner made with Hamburger Helper, taco seasoning, and a few pantry staples. The perfect quick and easy comfort food for busy weeknights!

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If you grew up loving Hamburger Helper, this semi-homemade twist is going to be your new weeknight favorite! My son has always loved Hamburger Helper, he calls it “cheesy beef and noodles”, and corn is one of his favorite veggies. So I thought it would be fun to give one of his favorite dinners a little upgrade into a cheesy taco pasta!

This Easy One-Pan Taco Hamburger Helper takes that nostalgic boxed mix and turns it into a creamy, flavorful skillet meal with a fun taco-inspired twist. It’s rich, hearty, cheesy-tasting from the creamy sauce, and packed with family-friendly flavor, all in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy, one-pan dinner: Everything cooks in the same skillet for easy cleanup.
Semi Homemade shortcut: Start with a Hamburger Helper box and a few pantry staples for a fast, comforting meal.
Creamy and flavorful: The heavy cream and taco seasoning make the sauce rich and delicious.
Family-approved: Kids and adults will love the cozy taco flavor twist.
Customizable: Add black beans, bell peppers, or top with shredded cheese — make it your own!

Ingredients For This Hamburger Helper with A Taco Twist:

1 pound ground beef
1 box Hamburger Helper mix (I used Cheeseburger Macaroni, but any flavor works)
1 ¼ cups water (plus extra if needed) – you could also use beef broth instead
2 cups heavy cream (instead of milk)
1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
1 (15–16 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup frozen corn
1 cup frozen peas
Salt, to taste (optional)

Ingredient amounts and entire recipe directions in recipe card below with print option!

How To Make Easy One-Pan Taco Hamburger Helper:

rown the beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain the grease (or blot it with a paper towel like I do!).
Add the pasta and sauce
Add the Hamburger Helper pasta, the seasoning packet from the box, water, and heavy cream. Stir until everything is combined.
Add the extra flavor
Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with juices, frozen corn, and peas. Mix well.
Cook and simmer
Cover the skillet with a lid and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks. You want the liquid to be mostly gone but want it to look long enough for the pasta to be done.
Finish and serve
If the pasta isn’t quite tender, add a splash of water and cook for about 5 more minutes. Taste and add a little salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

Angie’s Semi Homemade Suggestions:

You can jazz this up even more by sprinkling on shredded cheddar, your favorite taco toppings before serving or a handful of crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy taco hamburger helper. It gives that extra “taco night” vibe, and if you have picky eaters, melted cheese never hurts. Shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey jack would be great.
Also a bit of sour cream and salsa with slices of fresh avocado would be great
We don’t use onion in our recipes because Thomas is allergic but you could also sauté some onions with the beef if you wanted.
To use homemade taco seasoning in this recipe, just remove the packet and use 2 tablespoons of your homemade seasoning.

What to Serve with Taco Hamburger Helper:

side salad or roasted veggies
Warm tortillas or cornbread
Or just enjoy it by itself as a full meal in one pan

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. When reheating it, you may want to add a splash of milk or water to loosen up the sauce.

Want to try this taco update with a homemade version? I also have a recipe on BigBearsWife.com for a homemade taco hamburger helper if you’d like to try that.

MORE Pasta Recipes:

Easy One-Pan Taco Hamburger Helper

Yield: 4–5 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

This Easy One-Pan Taco Hamburger Helper is a creamy, flavorful, semi homemade dinner made with Hamburger Helper, taco seasoning, and a few pantry staples. The perfect quick and easy comfort food for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 box Hamburger Helper mix (Cheeseburger Macaroni works great!)
1 ¼ cups water (plus extra if needed)
2 cups heavy cream (instead of milk)
1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
1 (15–16 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup frozen corn
1 cup frozen peas
Salt, to taste (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain the grease (or blot it with a paper towel like I do!).

Step 2: Add the pasta and sauce

Add the Hamburger Helper pasta, the seasoning packet from the box, water, and heavy cream. Stir until everything is combined.

Step 3: Add the flavor

Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with juices, frozen corn, and peas. Mix well.

Step 4: Cook and simmer

Cover the skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks.

Step 5: Finish and serve

If the pasta isn’t quite tender, add a splash of water and cook for about 5 more minutes. Taste and add a little salt if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Try sprinkling some shredded cheese or crushed tortilla chips on top before serving.

If you make this recipe, snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #semihomemaderecipes — We love to see what you’re making from the blog!

The post Easy One-Pan Taco Hamburger Helper appeared first on Shoppin' Buggy Recipes.

Pesto Alfredo Cheese Tortellini

Angie — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 12:23:36 +0000

Creamy, comforting, and loaded with flavor—this Pesto Alfredo Cheese Tortellini is everything you want in a quick weeknight dinner. It’s rich and cheesy, comes together in under 30 minutes, and gets a little veggie boost from sweet green peas. Best part? It’s made with just a handful of grocery store staples. This is Semi Homemade Recipes at its very best!

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If you’ve ever found yourself standing in front of the fridge at 6 PM, wondering how to throw together something that feels a little fancy but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen—this one’s for you.

My Pesto Alfredo Cheese Tortellini is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, and the best part? It’s semi-homemade magic. We’re using store-bought tortellini, jarred sauces, and just a few fresh add-ins to make this feel like something from a cozy homemade meal.

This pesto tortellini dish is proof that you don’t need to make everything from scratch to make something really good. It’s comfort food with a fresh, flavorful twist—perfect for cozy nights, last-minute guests, or just treating yourself after a long day.

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Pasta Recipe:

Quick & Easy – Dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes.
Minimal Ingredients – Just six pantry and fridge staples.
Kid-Friendly – Creamy pasta + cheesy tortellini = a dinner win.
Freezer-Friendly – Make a double batch and freeze the extras!

Tips & Add-Ins:

Make it meaty: Stir in cooked shredded chicken, rotisserie-style, for a protein boost.
Add some crunch: Toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs on top add a fun texture.
Be flexible. Toss in some fresh spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even grilled salmon or grilled chicken if you want to bulk it up.

Ingredients For Pesto Alfredo Tortellini:

16 ounces Alfredo Sauce
1/2 cup basil pesto
2 cups frozen peas
9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Optional sprinkle of fresh parsley for color
Salt for pasta water

Ingredient amounts and entire recipe directions in recipe card below with print option!

Which Brands Did I Use For This Pesto Alfredo Cheese Tortellini?

Sometimes when it comes to Semihomemade recipe that use packaged foods to create meals, the brands of items can make or break a dish. I don’t think this ALWAYS happens but I do know that not all packaged items are created equally.

Alfredo sauce – We use Bertolli Alfredo Sauce with Aged Parmesan Cheese. This is my favorite jar alfredo but you can always make homemade!

Basil Pesto – You can use homemade but for this recipe I used the Barilla Rustic Basil Pesto Sauce.

Frozen peas- I used the Birds Eye Steamfresh Sweet Peas.

Refrigerated cheese tortellini– I used the refrigerated cheese tortellini from the deli section but you can use any kind you want.

Grated parmesan cheese – I like to use BelGioioso Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese.

This semi-homemade tortellini recipe is packed with pantry-friendly ingredients and perfect for busy families or anyone craving a cozy pasta night.

How To Make Pesto Alfredo Cheese Tortellini:

Cook the tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package (about 3–5 minutes).
Toss in the frozen peas during the last minute. Drain and set aside.

If you don’t want to cook the peas with the pasta, you can steam them in the bag and then stir them into the alfredo sauce.
Make the sauce:
In the same pot, combine Alfredo sauce and basil pesto. Stir over medium heat until smooth and warmed through—this creates a luscious, creamy pesto Alfredo sauce.
Mix it all together:
Add the tortellini and peas to the sauce and stir to coat.
Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Serve & garnish:
Plate it up, add a little fresh parsley, and extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy.

Other Pasta Shapes You Can Use in Pesto Alfredo

Pasta Swaps & Variations:

No cheese tortellini on hand? No problem! This recipe is super flexible. Try these other pasta shapes that pair perfectly with the creamy pesto Alfredo sauce:

Ravioli – Cheese or spinach ravioli adds a cozy, stuffed twist.
Farfalle (Bowties) – Fun, kid-friendly, and great for scooping sauce.
Penne or Rigatoni – Classic short pastas that hold creamy sauces beautifully.
Fusilli or Rotini – All those spirals catch the pesto Alfredo like a dream.
Cavatappi – Chewy and curly—perfect for a saucy pasta night.
Orecchiette – “Little ears” that hug peas and cheese in every bite.
Gnocchi – Not a pasta, but absolutely amazing with creamy sauces!

Pro tip: Just cook your pasta until al dente, then toss it right into the sauce with the peas and Parmesan—just like you would with the tortellini.

The combo of jarred Alfredo and pesto makes a velvety, flavor-packed sauce with zero effort. Don’t feel like you’re “cheating” by not making your own sauce—it’s about working smarter, not harder. Your weeknight dinner deserves to be both easy and delicious.

If you try this Pesto Alfredo Cheese Tortellini, tag me on Instagram or drop a comment below—I love seeing your creations!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats beautifully. Just store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of milk when reheating to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze this?

You can! Let it cool completely, then freeze in portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a little extra sauce or broth.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, as long as your Alfredo and pesto are meat-free (check labels!).

What to Serve With It:

Garlic breadsticks
Side salad with balsamic or lemon vinaigrette
Roasted veggies like broccoli or asparagus

More Tortellini Recipes:

More Pesto Recipes:

Pesto Alfredo Cheese Tortellini

Yield: 4 cups

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

9 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
16 oz jarred Alfredo sauce
1/2 cup basil pesto
2 cups frozen peas
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, for the pasta water
Optional: fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package (about 3–5 minutes).
Toss in the frozen peas during the last minute. Drain and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same pot, combine Alfredo sauce and basil pesto. Stir over medium heat until smooth and warmed through—this creates a luscious, creamy pesto Alfredo sauce.
Mix it all together: Add the tortellini and peas to the sauce and stir to coat.
Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Serve & garnish: Plate it up, add a little fresh parsley, and extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy.

If you make this recipe, snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #semihomemaderecipes — We love to see what you’re making from the blog!

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Ingredients

16 ounces Alfredo Sauce
1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
Optional sprinkle of fresh parsley for color

Instructions

Add alfredo sauce and buffalo sauce to a medium saucepan.
Heat on medium heat until warm.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Once the water is boiling, add refrigerated cheese tortellini.
Cook according to package directions. About 5-7 minutes.
Add shredded chicken to the buffalo sauce mixture and stir to combine.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain and add pasta to the sauce.
Stir to combine.
Once heated throughout, it's time to serve.
Optional sprinkle of fresh parsley for color.

If you make this recipe, snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #semihomemaderecipes — We love to see what you’re making from the blog!

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Easy Caprese Pasta Salad

Angie — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 13:09:55 +0000

This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad is just what you need for your next summer cookout or a lazy meal to have in the fridge and snack on for a few days!

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Looking for more pasta salad recipes? Try these out: Mom’s Pasta Salad, Instant Pot Pasta Salad and this Ham and Cheese Pasta Salad – No Mayonnaise!

Pasta salad is always one of my go-to recipes for cookouts and potlucks. Plus this would be great to fill a jar with and take it on a fun picnic!

I love it as a side dish for weekend cookouts and it is great to keep in the fridge to snack on during the week. I love all of the fresh ingredients in this pasta salad!

Perfect side dish for – Easy Herb Garlic Chicken Thighs or Air Fryer BBQ Teriyaki Chicken!

Ingredients For Caprese Pasta Salad:

4 tablespoons olive oil or extra-virgin olive oil
4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
8 ounce fresh mozzarella pearls
8 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini*
Salt & Pepper

*I used tri-colored refrigerated cheese tortellini for this recipe but you can use any refrigerated cheese tortellini

Ingredient amounts and full recipe directions in recipe card below with print option!

Which Brands Did I Use For This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad?

Pasta Salad Ingredients:

Olive oil or extra-virgin olive oil – any brand you like

Balsamic vinegar – Pompeian

Fresh basil – Nature’s Promise

Fresh – BelGioioso Fresh Mozzarella Pearl Cheese

Cherry tomatoes, halved – any brand

Refrigerated cheese tortellini – I used the Food Lion tri colored pasta

Salt & Pepper – any brand

How To Make Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe:

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. You don’t really need to measure how much salt. I normally just sprinkle salt in a circle in the pot for about 2-3 seconds.
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. You’ll want this bowl to be big enough to hold all of the pasta salad.
Chop the fresh basil and halve the tomatoes. Make sure you’re using fresh basil for this recipe.
Add in the chopped basil and the mozzarella pearls.

These are the mozzarella pearls that I used.
Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the bowl. You can leave some of the tomatoes whole if you want.
Once the large pot of salted water is boiling, add refrigerated cheese tortellini. Cook according to package instructions. About 5-7 minutes.
Once pasta is tender, pour into a colander to drain pasta water and rinse pasta with cold water.

YES, Yes…. I know that rinsing pasta is normally a no no, but we need this pasta to be cool so it doesn’t melt the cheese. Also, you don’t normally wash pasta because you need the starch to help it stick to the sauce but we’re not really using a sauce for this recipe.
Once pasta is cool, add to bowl and stir everything together.
Add a few dashes of salt and black pepper. I don’t give measurements for salt and pepper for a recipe like this because I feel like everyone has different tastes when it comes to salt and pepper.

For example, my best friend likes salt WAY more that I do. haha.
Taste and season as desired.
Cover bowl and chill in fridge for at least 4 hours.
Before serving, toss pasta salad.
You may want to add a few more dashes of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, as the pasta will soak up the liquid in the pasta salad while in the fridge.
You can also finish it off with a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.

The balsamic glaze is super good.

What Is A Caprese Salad?

Caprese is made with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil and balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze.

Normally you’ll find Caprese laid out as layers of slices tomatoes, slices of fresh mozzarella and fresh basil leaves.

Those slices are then drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar or a balsamic glaze.

Do I Have To Use Extra-Virgin Olive Oil?

You don’t’ have to use extra virgin olive oil. Just use your favorite olive oil.

What Kind Of Pasta Can I Use For This Caprese Pasta Salad?

I love using the tri colored refrigerated cheese tortellini for this recipe but you can also use pasta shapes like:

Penne
Rotini Pasta
Bowtie Pasta
Fusilli Pasta
Macaroni

More Pasta Salad Recipes:

More Tortellini Recipes:

Easy Caprese Pasta Salad

Yield: 6 cups

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 7 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad is just what you need for your next summer cookout or a lazy meal to have in the fridge and snack on for a few days!

Ingredients

4 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
8 ounce fresh mozzarella pearls
8 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini*
Salt & Pepper

Instructions

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Add in the chopped basil and the mozzarella pearls.
Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the bowl. You can leave some of the tomatoes whole if you want.
Once the water is boiling, add refrigerated cheese tortellini. Cook according to package directions. About 5-7 minutes.
Once pasta is tender, pour into a colander and rinse with cold water.
Once pasta is cool, add to bowl and stir everything together.
Add a few dashes of salt and pepper.
Taste and season as desired.
Cover bowl and chill in fridge for at least 4 hours.
Before serving, toss pasta salad.
You may want to add a few more dashes of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, as the pasta will soak up the liquid in the pasta salad while in the fridge.
You can also finish it off with a balsamic glaze before serving.

Notes

*I used tri-colored refrigerated cheese tortellini for this recipe but you can use any refrigerated cheese tortellini

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1 cup
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 319Trans Fat: 0g

I am not a nutritionist. Calories and other numbers may vary based on brands and amounts used.

If you make this recipe, snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #semihomemaderecipes — We love to see what you’re making from the blog!

Ingredients

8 ounces sliced mushrooms
8 ounces asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon onion powder
16 ounces large seashell pasta, uncooked
15 ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
24 ounce jar Vodka sauce
2 ounces shredded parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Preheat oven to 425F.
On a rimmed lined baking sheet, add mushroom and asparagus.
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with onion powder.
Toss everything together and spread into a single layer.
Roast vegetables in oven for 15 minutes.
While vegetables are roasting, add pasta to boiling water and cook for 10 minutes (or until tender)
Drain pasta. Add drained pasta back to pot and add the drained and rinsed beans to pasta.
Once vegetables are done roasting, add them to the pot as well.
Add pasta sauce and stir. *
Plate pasta and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.

Notes

* you can heat pasta sauce in a sauce pan before adding to pot but I find that the heat from the pasta and roasted vegetables is normally enough to heat the sauce.

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The post Quick Roasted Vegetable Pasta in Vodka Sauce appeared first on Shoppin' Buggy Recipes.

Super Easy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Angie — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 16:13:22 +0000

Craving a comforting and satisfying meal? Look no further! This foolproof recipe for chicken Alfredo stuffed shells will guide you through the process, ensuring a delicious and stress-free meal. Get ready to cozy up with a plate of pure deliciousness!

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Craving a warm, comforting meal that will satisfy your taste buds and lift your spirits? Look no further!

If you’re in need of the ultimate comfort food, we have the perfect solution for you: Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells.

With just a few simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a plate of pure deliciousness that will have you cozying up and enjoying every bite.

Ingredients For Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells:

boneless, skinless chicken breast
salt
pepper
Italian Seasoning
“Pinch Perfect” Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning
Jumbo Shells
Alfredo sauce
grated parmesan cheese
shredded mozzarella cheese

Ingredient amounts and entire recipe directions are in the recipe card below with a print option!

Which Brands Did I Use For This Alfredo Cajun Cream Sauce Chicken Thighs and Wild Rice?

Sometimes when it comes to Semihomemade recipes that use packaged foods to create meals, the brands of items can make or break a dish. I don’t think this ALWAYS happens but I do know that not all packaged items are created equally.

Boneless, skinless chicken breast – I used Nature’s Promise Chicken Breasts Boneless & Skinless

Salt – any brand is fine

Pepper – any brand is fine

Italian Seasoning – any brand is fine

“Pinch Perfect” Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning

Jumbo Shells – We used Barilla Jumbo Shells

Alfredo sauce – Bertolli Alfredo Sauce with Aged Parmesan Cheese. You could also use Homemade alfredo sauce if you wanted to.

Grated parmesan cheese – I’ve been loving the Sartori Parmesan Classic

Shredded mozzarella cheese – I used kraft

How To Make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells:

Preheat oven 350F
Seasoning chicken with chicken seasoning.
Cook chicken for about 15 minutes on medium heat until done (internal temperature should reach 165F)
Remove chicken from heat and set aside.
Bring a salted pot of water to a boil.
Add jumbo shells to the water and boil for 9 minutes.
For the filling, shred the chicken. Then combine the shredded chicken and combine 15 ounces of Alfredo, 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning, 1 teaspoon “Pinch Perfect” Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning, 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix Well.
Once jumbo pasta shells are cooked, remove them from water and let drain.
Spoon a spoonful of mixture / filling into each shell.
In a 9×13 dish, spread a small amount of alfredo over the bottom of the pan.
Line stuffed shells in a baking dish in a single layer.
Pour alfredo sauce over shells.
Top with Mozzarella cheese and Italian Seasoning.
Bake for 30 minutes.

More Stuffed Shell Recipes:

Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Shells

Plus 10 of the BEST Stuffed Shell Recipes

More Alfredo Recipes:

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast

Seasoning for Chicken:

1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
1/2 teaspoon "Pinch Perfect" Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning
12 ounce box Jumbo Shells

For Filling:

15 oz jar Alfredo sauce
1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
1 teaspoon "Pinch Perfect" Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For Topping:

30 ounce Alfredo Sauce
2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian Seasoning

Instructions

Preheat oven 350F
Seasoning chicken with chicken seasoning.
Cook chicken for about 15 minutes on medium heat until done (internal temperature should reach 165F)
Remove chicken from heat and set aside.
Bring a salted pot of water to a boil.
Add jumbo shells to the water and boil for 9 minutes.
For the filling, shred the chicken and combine 15 ounces of Alfredo, 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning, 1 teaspoon "Pinch Perfect" Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning, 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
Mix Well.
Once shells are cooked, remove them from water and let drain.
Spoon a spoonful of filling into each shell.
In a 9x13 dish, spread a small amount of alfredo over the bottom of the pan.
Line stuffed shells in a baking dish in a single layer.
Pour alfredo sauce over shells.
Top with Mozzarella cheese and Italian Seasoning.
Bake for 30 minutes.

If you make this recipe, snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #semihomemaderecipes — We love to see what you’re making from the blog!

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Cajun Alfredo Chicken Pasta

Angie — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 10:57:00 +0000

Pressed for time? Learn the quick and easy way to whip up a delicious Cajun Alfredo Chicken Pasta in just 30 minutes. Say goodbye to boring weeknight dinners!

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Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day at work? Do you crave a meal that is not only delicious but one that can be ready in just 30 minutes? Say goodbye to boring weeknight dinners and get ready to savor every mouthwatering bite of this semihomemade delight.

Ingredients For Cajun Alfredo Chicken Pasta:

16 ounce box penne pasta
2 – 24 ounce jars Alfredo sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 teaspoons cajun seasoning
4 cups chopped cooked chicken*

Ingredient amounts and entire recipe directions in recipe card below with print option!

Which Brands Did I Use For This Cajun Alfredo Chicken Pasta?

How To Make Cajun Alfredo Chicken Pasta:

To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is vigorously boiling, add the pasta of your choice.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection. This usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes.
In a large skillet or large sauce pan, combine the alfredo sauce and Cajun Seasoning.
*Remember, if you don’t normally cook with cajun seasoning, add a little at a time and taste as you go.
Add in cooked chicken and mozzarella cheese and stir well.
When pasta is done cooking, add drained pasta to sauce and stir well!
Fresh Parlsey used in photos as garnish.

And there you have it – a delectable Cajun Alfredo Chicken Pasta that is ready to be served. In just 30 minutes, you’ve created a meal that balances the spiciness of Cajun seasoning with the richness of Alfredo sauce, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful dish. Get ready to indulge in a plateful of this culinary delight.,

More Pasta Recipes:

More Chicken Recipes:

Cajun Alfredo Chicken Pasta

Yield: 6 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Pressed for time? Learn the quick and easy way to whip up a delicious Cajun Alfredo Chicken Pasta in just 30 minutes. Say goodbye to boring weeknight dinners!

Ingredients

16 ounce box penne pasta
2 - 24 ounce jars Alfredo sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 teaspoons cajun seasoning
4 cups chopped cooked chicken*

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for about 12 minutes or until tender.
In a large skillet or large sauce pan, combine the alfredo sauce and Cajun Seasoning.
Add in cooked chicken and mozzarella cheese and stir well.
When pasta is done cooking, add drained pasta to sauce and stir well!
Fresh Parlsey used in photos as garnish.

If you make this recipe, snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #semihomemaderecipes — We love to see what you’re making from the blog!

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The post Cajun Alfredo Chicken Pasta appeared first on Shoppin' Buggy Recipes.

BBQ Taco Macaroni Pasta Salad

Angie — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 09:09:00 +0000

Incorporate this BBQ taco macaroni pasta salad into your next gathering and watch as your guests rave about the unique twist. With the perfect fusion of BBQ and tacos, it’s an easy-to-make crowd pleaser that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to create your own personalized version. So, go ahead and give this surprising twist a try – your taste buds will thank you!

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We love a good pasta salad around here and we’re always looking to create new and awesome flavor combination.

Introducing the BBQ Taco Macaroni Pasta Salad – a fusion of two beloved favorites that will revolutionize the way you think about pasta salad. Get ready to wow your guests at your next gathering with this unique recipe that combines the smoky richness of BBQ with the zesty kick of taco seasoning.

You’re going to love making this for your next cookout/BBQ or family dinner!

The BBQ Taco Macaroni Pasta Salad is versatile too. Feel free to customize it according to your preferences. Add some crisp and colorful veggies for extra crunch and freshness. Toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier version. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this dish to your liking and impress your guests with your culinary creativity.

Ingredients For BBQ Taco Macaroni Pasta Salad:

elbow macaroni
BBQ Sauce
mayo
taco seasoning
frozen sweet corn, cooked and cooled
black beans, drained and rinsed

My best friend was one of my test tasters for this recipe and she did say that she added some salt to it, but that is personal preference. You may or may not want to add a little extra salt. Just give it a taste after its chilled and make the call.

Ingredient amounts and entire recipe directions in recipe card below with print option!

Which Brands Did I Use For This BBQ Taco Macaroni Pasta Salad?

Elbow macaroni – any brand is fine.

BBQ Sauce– We used Sweet Baby Rays BBQ sauce for this recipe

Mayo– Dukes of course!

Taco seasoning– I used the Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Mix but your favorite will work.

Frozen sweet corn, cooked and cooled– I love the steamer bags of frozen corn.

Black beans, drained and rinsed– I used the Food Lion brand

How To Make BBQ Taco Macaroni Pasta Salad:

Start the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions, about 12 minutes. You want the pasta to have a bit of a bite to it, so it doesn’t end up mushy after sitting with the dressing in the fridge.
Time to make the base:
In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, mayo, and taco seasoning. Stir well.
Add ins:
Add in sweet corn and black beans. Stir well.
Once pasta is cooked, drain and rinse with cold water. Pasta salad is the only time you’ll see me rinsing pasta!
Toss pasta into mayo mixture and stir to completely combine.
Chill in fridge at least 2 hours before serving.

Serve and impress with this BBQ Taco Macaroni Pasta Salad that will be the star of any gathering. Its vibrant colors and enticing aroma will instantly draw everyone’s attention, while the extraordinary blend of flavors will keep them hooked. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard barbecue or a sophisticated dinner party, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Can I Change The Pasta Shape?

Of course! We used elbow macaroni but these shapes will work as well:

Penne
Shell Pasta
Wagon Wheels
Fusilli
Bowties

Keeping Leftovers?

This Pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least 2 days. After that, you may notice that the pasta salad starts to get a little dry.

More BBQ Recipes:

More Pasta Salad Recipes:

BBQ Taco Macaroni Pasta Salad

Yield: 12 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 22 minutes

Incorporate this BBQ taco macaroni pasta salad into your next gathering and watch as your guests rave about the unique twist. With the perfect fusion of BBQ and tacos, it's an easy-to-make crowd pleaser that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to create your own personalized version. So, go ahead and give this surprising twist a try – your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients

16 ounce box elbow macaroni
1 cup BBQ Sauce
2 cups mayo
1 ounce packet taco seasoning
10 ounce bag frozen sweet corn, cooked and cooled
2 (15.25 ounce each) cans black beans, drained and rinsed

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package directions, about 12 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, mayo, and taco seasoning. Stir well.
Add in sweet corn and black beans. Stir well.
Once pasta is cooked, drain and rinse with cold water.
Toss pasta into mayo mixture and stir to completely combine.
Chill in fridge at least 2 hours before serving.

If you make this recipe, snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #semihomemaderecipes — We love to see what you’re making from the blog!

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The post BBQ Taco Macaroni Pasta Salad appeared first on Shoppin' Buggy Recipes.

Super Easy 6 Ingredient Rotini

Angie — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 10:58:00 +0000

6 Ingredient Rotini – In just a few simple steps and with only 6 ingredients, you can create a delicious rotini dish that will wow your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a gathering, this recipe is a winner. Don’t waste time on complex recipes when you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.

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Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen, slaving over complicated recipes?

Don’t get me wrong, I love to cook and sometimes I LOVE to spend time creating huge meals. However, sometimes I just want simple and easy.

We’ve got the perfect solution for you. Introducing the ultimate shortcut to a mouthwatering dish: our 6 ingredient rotini recipe. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Say goodbye to culinary complexities and hello to dinner on the table in no time. So, put away those fancy cookbooks and get ready to discover the shortcut to a delicious rotini dish.

Ingredients For 6 Ingredient Rotini:

rotini pasta
Pasta Sauce
heavy cream
garlic powder
Italian seasoning
shredded parmesan cheese

Parsley and Extra cheese for garnish is optional

Ingredient amounts and entire recipe directions in recipe card below with print option!

Which Brands Did I Use For This Super Easy Rotini?

Rotini pasta – any brand will work, we used Ronzoni brand for this particular recipe but your favorite brand will be fine!

Pasta Sauce – Use your favorite pasta sauce! I can’t lie, we love the Hunts Herb & Garlic Pasta Sauce. It’s cheap and with seasonings it’s pretty good.

Heavy cream – store brand is fine

Garlic powder – store brand is fine

Italian seasoning – store brand is fine

Shredded parmesan cheese – we used Sartori Shredded Parmesan Cheese

How To Make 6 Ingredient Rotini:

First, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. While waiting for the water to boil, gather your ingredients and prep them for cooking.

I prefer to salt the water when I cook pasta, so if you want to do that, just toss some salt into the water before boiling.
Next, add the rotini pasta to the boiling water, making sure to cook it according to the package instructions, typically around 9 to 11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
While the pasta cooks, make the sauce.
Heat the pasta sauce in a medium sauce pan.
Stir in the garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
Once super hot. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and cheese.
Drain pasta and add pasta to sauce.
Parsley and Extra cheese for garnish is optional.

Not only is our super easy rotini dish perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also great for those times when you’re feeling a bit lazy in the kitchen. Maybe you had a long day at work or just want to relax on the weekends—whatever the reason, this dish is here to save the day. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that requires little cleanup afterwards. It’s a win-win situation!

Which Pasta Shapes Can I Use?

We used Rotini noodles for this dish, but you could also use wagon wheel pasta, penne, fusilli or something with the same shape or size.

Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing Pasta Dish

Cheese lovers can take their customization game to the next level by exploring different cheese options.

For a classic Italian touch, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or Romano cheese on top. If you prefer a creamier and richer flavor, melt in some mozzarella or Gruyere cheese. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses to create a truly indulgent rotini dish.

When it comes to making a rotini dish kid-friendly, simplicity is key. Children often appreciate familiar flavors and textures, so stick with simple ingredients. If you want to try to get some veggies into the dish, you can also add some diced vegetables, such as carrots or peas, to introduce a pop of color and sneak in some extra nutrients. Kids love fun shapes, so opting for spiral rotini or any pasta in interesting shapes will surely make the meal more appealing. Wagon Wheel pasta is a super fun shape for kids.

For a crowd-pleasing rotini dish, it’s all about bold flavors and satisfying combinations. One idea is to incorporate some Italian sausage or ground beef into the dish, adding a savory and meaty element. You can also mix in some sautéed onions and bell peppers for a burst of sweetness and a delightful crunch. To enhance the flavor profile, spicy red pepper flakes can take the dish to the next level.

No matter how you choose to enjoy your rotini dish, one thing is for sure: it will be a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself, your family, or a crowd, the flavors and simple ingredients will leave everyone wanting more. So go ahead, savor the simplicity and let your taste buds revel in the delight of this customizable pasta creation.

More Easy Pasta Recipes:

More 30 Minute Meal Recipes:

6 Ingredient Rotini

Yield: 6 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

In just a few simple steps and with only 6 ingredients, you can create a delicious rotini dish that will wow your taste buds. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a gathering, this recipe is a winner. Don't waste time on complex recipes when you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.

Ingredients

16 ounce box rotini pasta
24 ounce can Hunts Herb & Garlic Pasta Sauce
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions

First, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. While waiting for the water to boil, gather your ingredients and prep them for cooking.

Next, add the rotini pasta to the boiling water, making sure to cook it according to the package instructions, typically around 9 to 11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

While the pasta cooks, make the sauce.

Heat the pasta sauce in a medium sauce pan.

Stir in the garlic powder and Italian seasoning.

Once super hot. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and cheese.

Drain pasta and add pasta to sauce.

Notes

Parsley and Extra cheese for garnish is optional.

If you make this recipe, snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #semihomemaderecipes — We love to see what you’re making from the blog!

Love it? Pin It!

The post Super Easy 6 Ingredient Rotini appeared first on Shoppin' Buggy Recipes.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Angie — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 23:51:49 +0000

In just 30 minutes, you can create a crowd-pleasing Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad that will leave your guests craving for more. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors. Perfect for your next dinner, potluck or picnic.

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Have you ever found yourself in need of a quick and easy recipe that is sure to impress your family or party guests? Look no further than this mouthwatering Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any occasion.

This pasta salad is great served warm or chilled!

Ingredients For Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad:

12 ounces farfalle pasta
16 ounces, chopped cooked chicken*
1 cup Kens Creamy Caesar Dressing
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 heart of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese
Croutons

*you can cook and chop chicken or use something like the Perdue’s already cooked grilled chicken. Using the precooked chicken helps get this on the table in no time.

Ingredient amounts and entire recipe directions in recipe card below with print option!

Which Brands Did I Use For This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad?

Chicken: I used the Perdue already cooked grilled chicken for this pasta salad. Using the pre-cooked chicken makes this a super fast dinner. You can also cook and chop chicken breasts for this recipe. A chopped rotisserie chicken would also work.

Pasta: I used farfalle (bow-tie) pasta but choose your favorite type of pasta for this salad. Traditional options like penne or rotini work well, but feel free to use something like fusilli too.

Romaine lettuce: Fresh and crisp, romaine lettuce is the classic base for a Caesar salad. Grab a head and wash it thoroughly before using.

Parmesan cheese: Shaved Parmesan cheese adds a delightful tangy and nutty flavor to the salad. Make sure you have enough to sprinkle generously. I used Frigo Shaved Cheese because that is what my grocery store had, but use your favorite brand.

Caesar dressing: You can make your own if you’re feeling up to it but I love using 1 cup Kens Creamy Caesar Dressing for this recipe. You’ll need about 1 cup of dressing. I have a recipe for homemade Caesar salad dressing here on BigBearsWife.com if you’d rather try that.

Croutons: Crispy croutons lend a satisfying crunch to the salad. You can either purchase ready-made croutons or make your own by toasting cubes of day-old bread with olive oil and seasonings. I just grabbed the store brand.

Salt and Pepper: These pantry staples will be used to season pasta, so make sure you have them on hand but brand shouldn’t matter.

How To Make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad:

Start by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook for 13 minutes.
While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop the lettuce.
This is also a great time to chop and reheat the chicken if you’re using precooked chicken or leftover chicken.
Once pasta is done, drain but DON’T RINSE!
Add pasta to a large bowl.
Add in chicken, dressing, salt and pepper.
Stir until completely combined.
Add in chopped lettuce and cheese.
Toss well.
Top with croutons right before serving.

Now that you have mastered the art of creating a crowd-pleasing chicken Caesar pasta salad in just 30 minutes, it’s time to take your salad-making skills to the next level. Here are some tips and variations to help you elevate your culinary masterpiece even further.

Experiment with Different Greens: While romaine lettuce is the classic choice for a Caesar salad, don’t be afraid to explore other greens. Spinach, kale, or even arugula can add a unique flavor and texture to your pasta salad. Mix and match your greens to create a salad that suits your taste buds.
Add Colorful Vegetables: While the traditional Caesar salad typically includes only lettuce and croutons, you can make your pasta salad more vibrant and nutritious by adding colorful vegetables. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, or thinly sliced cucumbers. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a refreshing crunch.
Play with Protein Options: While chicken is a fantastic choice for a protein-packed pasta salad, don’t limit yourself to just one option. You can substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Be creative and choose a protein that complements the flavors of the salad.
Get Adventurous with Dressing: While a classic Caesar dressing is a tried-and-true option, don’t hesitate to experiment with different dressings to add a new dimension to your pasta salad. Try a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, a creamy avocado dressing, or a zesty lemon herb dressing. The right dressing can take your salad from ordinary to extraordinary.
Enhance with Additional Toppings: To add texture and flavor, consider incorporating additional toppings into your chicken Caesar pasta salad. Toasted pine nuts, extra grated Parmesan cheese, or even crispy bacon bits can take your salad to the next level. Don’t be shy to sprinkle on some extra goodness.

Serving Suggestions! What Should I Serve With This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe?

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad can be an entire meal but you can leave out the chicken and serve it as a side dish. If you’re going to do that, here are a few dishes to serve with it:

More Pasta Salad Recipes:

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Yield: 4 large dinners or about 12 party servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 13 minutes

Total Time: 28 minutes

In just 30 minutes, you can create a crowd-pleasing Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad that will leave your guests craving for more. Don't hesitate to give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors. Perfect for your next dinner, potluck or picnic.

Ingredients

12 ounces farfalle pasta
16 ounces, chopped cooked chicken*
1 cup Kens Creamy Caesar Dressing
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 heart of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese
Croutons

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook for 13 minutes.
Drain.
Pour pasta into a large mixing bowl.
Add in chicken, dressing, salt and pepper.
Stir until completely combined.
Add in chopped lettuce and cheese.
Stir well.
Top with croutons right before serving.

Notes

*you can cook and chop chicken or use something like the Perdue's already cooked grilled chicken. Using the precooked chicken helps get this on the table in no time.

This pasta salad can be served warm or cold.

If you make this recipe, snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #semihomemaderecipes — We love to see what you’re making from the blog!

Love it? Pin It!

The post Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad appeared first on Shoppin' Buggy Recipes.