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Rotel Pasta Fiesta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.2 from 40 reviews

Rotel Pasta Fiesta is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender pasta with savory ground beef or turkey, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, seasoned with taco spices for a fiesta of Tex-Mex inspired flavors. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for weeknight dinners and can be customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)

Meat and Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheese and Garnish

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  2. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease for a healthier dish.
  3. Add the Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the undrained Rotel diced tomatoes, heavy cream, taco seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for 5 minutes so the flavors combine and the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and meat. Toss thoroughly to coat all the pasta pieces evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir gently until the cheese melts into a creamy, cohesive sauce.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh herbal note. Serve the dish hot for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the pasta and brown the meat up to two days ahead, storing them separately in the refrigerator for quick assembly later.
  • Customizing the Flavor: Enhance the spiciness by adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Substitute the ground meat with shredded chicken or make a vegetarian version by including black beans and corn.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair this pasta fiesta with garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out your meal.
  • Storage Tips: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain creaminess.

Keywords: Rotel pasta, creamy pasta, Tex-Mex pasta, ground beef pasta, quick dinner, one-pan meal

Find it online: https://epicrecipebox.com/rotel-pasta-fiesta-recipe/