Description
Rotel Pasta Fiesta is a creamy, cheesy Tex-Mex pasta dinner made with seasoned ground beef, Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, rich cream, and melty cheddar cheese. This easy one-pan comfort meal is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, brown the ground beef or turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, and the undrained Rotel tomatoes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Fold in the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra spice, use Hot Rotel or add diced jalapeños.
- Stir in black beans or corn for added Tex-Mex flavor.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat beautifully with a splash of milk or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex