Rotel Pasta Fiesta

Imagine coming home to the tantalizing aroma of a bubbling, cheesy pasta bake that promises comfort in every bite. Welcome to the world of Rotel Pasta Fiesta, a dish that combines the zestiness of Tex-Mex flavors with the heartiness of a classic pasta casserole. This delightful recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Rotel Pasta Fiesta is not just another pasta dish; it’s a celebration of flavors. You’ll love how the creamy cheese melds with spices and ground beef, creating a rich and satisfying meal. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that’s quick to make, versatile, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 lb of lean ground beef
• 12 ounces of wide egg noodles
• 1 (10-ounce) can of mild Rotel tomatoes
• 1 (10-ounce) can of Campbell’s condensed fiesta nacho cheese soup
• 1 cup of whipping cream
• 1/2 cup of diced onion
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
• 2 cups of shredded fiesta cheese taco blend

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, brown the onions and ground beef over medium heat. Add the garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder to the meat mixture, then drain off any excess grease.
3. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions and drain them well.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, fiesta nacho cheese soup, Rotel tomatoes (do not drain), and whipping cream. Stir in the cooked noodles and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is warmed through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the noodles are cooked al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preference.
• For a spicier kick, use hot Rotel tomatoes or add jalapeños to the mix.

Additional Tips and Variations

You can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with black beans or meatless crumbles.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 20g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Rotel Pasta Fiesta is a go-to recipe that brings warmth and joy to any meal. Its ease of preparation and bold flavors make it a dish you’ll want to return to again and again. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you! Feel free to share your own variations and experiences in the comments below. Happy cooking!