Description
Spicy Rotel pasta fiesta dances with zesty tomatoes and creamy cheese, creating a quick weeknight marvel. Comfort meets excitement in this simple skillet sensation that promises to satisfy hungry crowds with bold Southwestern flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded chicken
Vegetables and Tomatoes:
- 1 can (10 oz) rotel tomatoes
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup diced onions
Pasta and Seasonings:
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1/2 cup taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then brown ground beef until fully cooked and crumbled, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Add diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet, sautéing until vegetables become tender and slightly translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate shredded chicken into the meat mixture, stirring to combine and distribute evenly.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over the protein mixture, stirring thoroughly to coat all ingredients and release aromatic spices.
- Pour Rotel tomatoes into the skillet, mixing well to integrate the tangy tomato blend with the meat and vegetables.
- Meanwhile, cook penne pasta in a separate pot of salted boiling water until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, then drain.
- Add cooked pasta directly into the meat and vegetable mixture, gently folding to ensure even distribution.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, creating a rich and creamy sauce that binds all ingredients together.
- Gradually sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta, allowing it to melt and create a smooth, velvety texture.
- Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, adding a bright, herbaceous finish to the dish.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the vibrant and zesty Rotel Pasta Fiesta.
Notes
- Customize the heat level by selecting mild, medium, or hot Rotel tomatoes based on personal spice preference.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian version of the dish.
- For a gluten-free option, replace penne pasta with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Keep extra cheese on hand for topping, as melted cheddar adds an irresistible creamy texture and enhances overall flavor complexity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg