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 looking for a vibrant, comforting, and downright delicious dish to brighten up any weeknight dinner, then look no further than ROTEL PASTA FIESTA. This recipe combines tender pasta, savory browned meat, and a luscious creamy sauce bursting with the zesty kick of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. Every bite is a celebration of bold flavors and satisfying textures, making it an instant favorite in my kitchen and sure to become one in yours too. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just craving a hearty meal, ROTEL PASTA FIESTA hits all the right notes.

ROTEL PASTA FIESTA Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple pantry staples, but together they create the magic of ROTEL PASTA FIESTA. Each component adds its own special touch to the dish—rich creaminess, spicy brightness, or that perfect cheesy gooeyness—making the final result shine with every forkful.

12 oz pasta (penne or rotini): The ideal shapes to capture sauce and deliver satisfying bites.
1 lb ground beef or turkey: Adds protein and a savory, meaty base that’s hearty and flavorful.
1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained): The star ingredient providing that signature spicy and tangy flair.
1 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture and balances the heat.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the pasta for that irresistible cheesy finish.
1 teaspoon taco seasoning: Elevates the flavor with a smoky, slightly spicy twist.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle savory depth without overpowering.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together perfectly.
Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of fresh herbal brightness and color.

How to Make ROTEL PASTA FIESTA

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta—penne or rotini work beautifully—according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures the pasta has just enough bite to hold up well to the luscious sauce without becoming mushy. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet, add your ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s completely browned and no longer pink inside. Be sure to drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too heavy. This step builds a savory foundation for the ROTEL PASTA FIESTA, giving you that hearty meaty flavor that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Add the Sauce Ingredients

Stir in the entire can of undrained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. Then add the heavy cream, taco seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. This creamy, spicy concoction really brings the fiesta into the dish!

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with your flavorful sauce. Toss everything together to ensure each piece of pasta is fully coated. Then sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir gently until it melts into a gooey, rich blanket covering the noodles. This fusion of creamy cheese and zesty tomato is what makes ROTEL PASTA FIESTA downright addictive.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle the top of your ROTEL PASTA FIESTA with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley if you like a fresh herbal contrast. Serve it hot and watch as everyone dives in eagerly, savoring the combination of spice, creaminess, and cheesy goodness.

How to Serve ROTEL PASTA FIESTA

Garnishes

A simple garnish of fresh cilantro or parsley really brightens up the dish visually and adds a burst of freshness that cuts through the rich creaminess. For a little extra kick, a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime on top works wonders, transforming the flavor profile in exciting ways.

Side Dishes

Rotel Pasta Fiesta pairs beautifully with simple green salads or steamed veggies to balance the richness. A side of warm garlic bread or crunchy tortilla chips also complements the spicy, creamy flavors perfectly, making it a satisfying and complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the ROTEL PASTA FIESTA in individual mini casseroles or even stuffed inside halved bell peppers for a colorful and festive presentation. It also makes a fantastic filling for a baked pasta casserole topped with extra cheese and crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to four days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve the creamy texture and bold flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just give it a quick reheat for a comforting meal all over again.

Freezing

You can freeze ROTEL PASTA FIESTA, making it a great option for meal prepping. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly and prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk during reheating can help revive the creamy texture if it thickens too much in the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of beef or turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well in ROTEL PASTA FIESTA and will keep the dish light yet flavorful. Just brown it thoroughly and follow the recipe as usual.

Is there a vegetarian version of ROTEL PASTA FIESTA?

Yes! You can swap out the meat for sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, or even a plant-based ground substitute. These options maintain the heartiness while keeping it meat-free.

Can I make this dish spicy or mild?

The heat level is easily adjustable by choosing mild or hot Rotel tomatoes and modifying the amount of taco seasoning. For a milder version, use less seasoning or mild Rotel; for extra heat, add chili flakes or hot sauce.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese is classic here because it melts well and has that sharp flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce. But feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for different textures and tastes.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?

Definitely! You can assemble ROTEL PASTA FIESTA in a baking dish, refrigerate it, and bake it later with some extra cheese on top for a bubbly, golden finish. Just add about 20 minutes at 350°F, covered, until heated through.

Final Thoughts

ROTEL PASTA FIESTA is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its combination of creamy texture, cheesy richness, and that unmistakable zing of Rotel tomatoes makes it a go-to recipe for an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner. I genuinely hope you give this vibrant pasta fiesta a try—it’s sure to brighten your table and your taste buds with every single bite.

ROTEL PASTA FIESTA Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 16 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Rotel Pasta Fiesta is a flavorful and creamy one-pan dish combining tender penne or rotini pasta with savory browned ground beef or turkey, zesty Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, rich heavy cream, and melted cheddar cheese. Enhanced with taco seasoning and garlic powder, this quick and easy meal brings a festive Tex-Mex twist to your dinner table, perfect for weeknight meals or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

pasta and protein

12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
1 lb ground beef or turkey

sauce and seasoning

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

garnish

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 thoroughly and set aside.
Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease from the pan to keep the dish from being too oily.
Add the Sauce Ingredients: Stir into the skillet the undrained Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, heavy cream, taco seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat all the noodles in the creamy, spicy sauce. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and stir until it melts completely, creating a rich, creamy texture.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve the Rotel Pasta Fiesta hot for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
Adjust the amount of Rotel tomatoes based on your spice preference; mild or original versions work well.
For a lower-fat version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduced-fat cheese.
The taco seasoning can be homemade or store-bought, just be mindful of sodium content.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Tex-Mex