Name: ROTEL PASTA FIESTA Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini); 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; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with flavor, color, and that perfect creamy texture, then ROTEL PASTA FIESTA is your new go-to comfort meal. This vibrant pasta recipe combines the zest of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies with hearty ground meat, melted cheddar cheese, and a touch of creamy decadence. It’s a festive, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, taking your weeknight dinners to an exciting new level with every bite.

ROTEL PASTA FIESTA Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of ROTEL PASTA FIESTA lies in its simplicity, yet each ingredient plays an essential role in building those bold, flavorful layers. From the perfectly cooked pasta providing the ideal base to the spice-packed Rotel tomatoes that bring that signature zest, every component adds texture, depth, or color that makes this dish unforgettable.

12 oz pasta (penne or rotini): Choose shapes that hold the sauce well and create a satisfying bite.
1 lb ground beef or turkey: Provides rich, savory flavor and hearty protein; ground turkey is a leaner option.
1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained): The star ingredient that delivers a bright, spicy kick and vibrant color.
1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess that balances the spice perfectly.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce, creating gooey, cheesy goodness.
1 teaspoon taco seasoning: Brings warm, smoky spices to enhance every flavor.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and a subtle savory aroma.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to make sure every bite sings.
Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish): A pop of fresh green that adds brightness and a fresh finish.

How to Make ROTEL PASTA FIESTA

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to salt the water generously to infuse flavor into the noodles themselves. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until it is completely browned. Breaking it up with a spatula ensures even cooking and a great texture. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily without losing the deep meaty flavor.

Step 3: Add the Sauce Ingredients

To the skillet with your browned meat, add the entire can of undrained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. Pour in the heavy cream, then sprinkle the taco seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper all over. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now the magic happens: add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with your delicious sauce. Toss gently to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and stir until it melts completely, making the dish irresistibly rich and creamy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

For that finishing touch, scatter fresh cilantro or parsley on top. This not only elevates the appearance but also adds a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness. Serve your ROTEL PASTA FIESTA piping hot and watch it disappear in no time!

How to Serve ROTEL PASTA FIESTA

Garnishes

Elevate your ROTEL PASTA FIESTA with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, which add a burst of color and fresh flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of avocado can also complement the spicy creaminess, making each bite even more luscious and satisfying.

Side Dishes

This fiesta pasta pairs beautifully with crisp sides that add crunch and freshness to balance the creamy texture. Serve alongside garlic bread for soaking up extra sauce or a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette to brighten the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a colourful presentation, try serving ROTEL PASTA FIESTA in individual mini cast-iron skillets or hollowed-out bell peppers. You can also add a fun twist by layering it in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and baked until bubbly and golden, perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover ROTEL PASTA FIESTA in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to three days and tastes delightful when reheated, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners after a busy day.

Freezing

You can freeze ROTEL PASTA FIESTA in individual portions by placing it in freezer-safe containers or bags. For best texture, consume within two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain creamy consistency and vibrant flavors.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may add a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Microwave reheating also works well; cover loosely and stir midway to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I make ROTEL PASTA FIESTA vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground meat for black beans, corn, or sautéed mushrooms to keep it hearty while maintaining all the same delicious flavors.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese gives a delightful sharpness and melts perfectly, but feel free to use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different twist on the creamy texture.

How spicy is ROTEL PASTA FIESTA?

The dish has a gentle kick from the green chilies in Rotel, but adjusting the amount of taco seasoning or adding jalapeños allows you to tailor the heat to your taste.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and brown the meat separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days before combining and finishing the recipe.

What pasta shapes work best?

Penne and rotini are ideal because their tubular or ridged shapes hold onto the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use your favorites like fusilli or shell pasta.

Final Thoughts

ROTEL PASTA FIESTA is one of those heartwarming recipes that brings excitement and comfort to your dinner table in equal measure. With its perfect balance of creamy richness, zesty spice, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that easily becomes a family favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own flavorful touches as you go. Get ready to experience pasta night like never before!

ROTEL PASTA FIESTA Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 29 reviews

Author: Gabriel
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

Rotel Pasta Fiesta is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender pasta with seasoned ground beef or turkey, zesty Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner packed with Tex-Mex flair and customizable spice levels.

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

Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside to cool slightly.
Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy sauce.
Add the Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the undrained Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, heavy cream, taco seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the skillet with the meat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet and toss well to evenly coat the pasta with the creamy tomato and meat sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts fully, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and optionally sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a burst of fresh flavor and color. Serve hot for a comforting and delicious meal.

Notes

Make Ahead: Cook the pasta and brown the meat in advance to save time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before combining and serving.
Customizing the Flavor: Spice up the dish by adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a variation, swap the ground meat for shredded chicken or make it vegetarian by substituting with black beans and corn.
Serving Suggestions: This pasta pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave to maintain creaminess without drying out.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Boiling, Sautéing, Simmering
Cuisine: Tex-Mex