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Pasta bites have taken the culinary world by storm, emerging as a trendy and versatile dish that can easily transition from appetizers at a party to a satisfying main course for family dinners. The concept of pasta bites is simple yet delightful: tiny pockets of pasta filled with rich, creamy ingredients that burst with flavor. Among the myriad of pasta bite variations, Creamy Jalapeño Pasta Bites stand out for their unique combination of creamy textures and the zesty kick of jalapeños.

Creamy Jalapeño Pasta Bites

Discover the delicious blend of creamy and spicy with Creamy Jalapeño Pasta Bites! These mini pasta shells are filled with a rich mixture of cream cheese, jalapeños, and a medley of cheeses, making them the perfect addition to any gathering or a comforting weeknight dinner. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, these pasta bites are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Get ready for a delightful culinary experience!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz. mini pasta shells

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2-3 fresh jalapeños, deseeded and finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sour cream

1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Bread crumbs (for topping)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    - Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Add the mini pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set them aside in a large bowl.

      Sauté the Vegetables:

        - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it turns translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the jalapeños start to soften.

          Make the Creamy Sauce:

            - Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the skillet. Stir constantly until the two are well blended and creamy. Gradually incorporate the grated sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, mixing until the cheeses melt and form a smooth sauce.

              Season the Mixture:

                - Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors. Taste the sauce, adjusting the seasoning if desired to suit your palate.

                  Combine Pasta and Sauce:

                    - Fold the cooked mini pasta shells into the creamy jalapeño sauce, ensuring each shell is generously coated with the mixture. If you find the sauce too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out to your liking.

                      Prepare for Baking:

                        - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with non-stick spray or olive oil. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, carefully fill each pasta shell with the creamy jalapeño filling, placing them snugly in the prepared baking dish.

                          Top and Bake:

                            - Evenly sprinkle a generous amount of bread crumbs over the filled pasta shells for a delightful crunch. If you’d like, you can also add a handful of extra grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top for additional flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

                              Garnish and Serve:

                                - Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of color and flavor.

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                                    20 minutes | 50 minutes | 4-6 servings

                                      Presentation Tips:

                                        Serve the pasta bites warm in a rustic bowl or on a platter. For an elegant touch, drizzle some extra cilantro over the top and offer lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy!