Rotel Pasta Fiesta: Creamy and Spicy Rotel Pasta Delight
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner, look no further than the Rotel Pasta Fiesta! This creamy and spicy dish combines pasta, ground beef, and cheesy goodness for a meal the whole family will love. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Rotel Pasta Fiesta because it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together. The creamy texture and bold flavors make it a comforting dish that warms the heart and satisfies your hunger. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for those nights when you want something yummy without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Rotel Pasta Fiesta
To start making this delicious meal, gather all your ingredients and follow the simple steps below.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chuck
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 8 oz pasta noodles
- 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 4 oz Blanco Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 tsp season salt
- 1 tsp lemon pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tsp Slap Ya Mama seasoning
- 1 tsp Accent
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Directions:
- Cook the pasta noodles according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set them aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground chuck over medium heat until browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and diced bell peppers to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the veggies are nice and softened.
- Now stir in the season salt, lemon pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, taco seasoning, Slap Ya Mama seasoning, and Accent. Mix everything well to combine all the flavors.
- Next, stir in the Rotel tomatoes (with their juice), cubed Velveeta, Blanco Velveeta, and shredded cheese. Cook over low heat until all the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix it all together. Then, stir in the heavy whipping cream and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through and creamy.
- Serve it hot, and feel free to garnish with extra shredded cheese or fresh herbs if you’d like!
How to Serve Rotel Pasta Fiesta
Serve this dish hot right from the pan! It goes wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread. Everyone will love digging into a big bowl of creamy, cheesy pasta goodness.
How to Store Rotel Pasta Fiesta
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let it cool down, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a little extra cream or milk to bring back its creamy texture.
Tips to Make Rotel Pasta Fiesta
- For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños when sautéing the veggies.
- Use different types of cheese if you prefer, like cheddar or pepper jack, for different flavors.
- Make it a complete meal by adding in some cooked corn or black beans.
Variation
You can easily switch out the ground chuck for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Or for a vegetarian twist, try substituting the meat with mushrooms or some cooked lentils.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze Rotel Pasta Fiesta?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it. Just make sure to cool it completely first, then store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw and reheat before serving.
3. What can I serve it with?
This dish pairs nicely with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or even some tortilla chips for a fun crunch!