Description
Rotel Pasta Fiesta is a quick and easy one-pot Tex-Mex inspired dish featuring tender pasta combined with zesty Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, seasoned ground beef or turkey, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. This comforting recipe delivers bold flavors balanced with creamy cheese, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or busy weeknights. Customizable with various proteins, veggies, and toppings, it’s a budget-friendly crowd-pleaser that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Flavoring & Sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Chopped cilantro
- Jalapeños
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Cook the Meat: Using the same pot or a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Drain excess grease if necessary to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Add Spices and Rotel: Mix in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in the entire can of Rotel tomatoes with chilies, including the liquid, and stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Create the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously until fully incorporated. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked pasta to the pot, tossing thoroughly so the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy Rotel sauce. Garnish with optional toppings such as chopped cilantro, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve warm immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use short pasta shapes like penne or rotini to hold the sauce better.
- Grate your own cheese for better melting and creaminess.
- For less spice, use mild Rotel tomatoes; to add heat, incorporate jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Do not overcook the pasta; slightly undercooked pasta absorbs the sauce better.
- Store leftovers airtight in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months.
- When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Keywords: Rotel Pasta Fiesta, cheesy pasta, Tex-Mex pasta, one-pot dinner, ground beef pasta, easy weeknight meal, creamy pasta recipe, Rotel tomatoes recipe
