Description
This Rotel Pasta Fiesta is a quick and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with creamy cheese, savory ground beef, spicy Rotel tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a delicious Tex-Mex inspired comfort meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz (3 cups) penne or rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture
- In the same pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it into smaller pieces, and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add Seasonings and Rotel
- Stir in the Rotel tomatoes, chili powder, paprika, cumin, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Create the Sauce
- Lower the heat and add the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated. Let it cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve
- Top with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Notes
- For added spice, use the “Hot” variety of Rotel or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat for different variations.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.