Bold and Smoky Chipotle Pasta with Creamy Avocado Drizzle

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Get ready to turn up the heat in your kitchen with this fiery chipotle pasta. It’s a little smoky, a little tangy, and a whole lot of fun to cook. With a few simple ingredients, you can transform an ordinary dinner into a lively meal bursting with flavor.

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Ingredients

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  • 8 ounces penne or your favorite pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (or more for extra kick)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 avocado, mashed and lightly seasoned with salt
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, add olive oil to a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about five minutes, then add the minced garlic. Stir in the chipotle chili powder and let it bloom for 30 seconds, releasing that smoky aroma.

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Reduce the heat and pour in the tomato sauce, followed by the heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper, then let the sauce simmer gently for five minutes. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and stir into the sauce, coating each piece thoroughly. Transfer the pasta to serving bowls, top with the mashed avocado (or drizzle if you thin it with a little water), and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired.

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What makes this chipotle pasta so special is its blend of vibrant flavors—smoky, creamy, and just spicy enough to keep things interesting. It’s perfect for anyone who loves adding a little extra heat to their meal, and it’s easy to adapt if you’re feeding vegetarians or needing to pare down dairy by using a plant-based cream. Swap in whole wheat pasta for extra fiber, or add roasted vegetables and grilled chicken for a heartier dish. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and enjoy the tastiest chipotle pasta you’ve ever whipped up at home!

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.