Introduction
Welcome to a fiesta of flavors with this delightful Rotel Pasta, a creamy, cheesy dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Tex-Mex right to your table! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also bursting with the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheeses. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be coming back for seconds — and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (RoTel)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Drain and set aside, allowing it to cool slightly.
- In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally. If there’s excess fat, be sure to drain it off.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked meat, stirring for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant and well combined.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies along with the corn and softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts and integrates beautifully with the meat mixture.
- Next, mix in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until everything is creamy and well blended.
- Gently fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring that every twist and turn is coated with the rich, cheesy mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to your taste, adjusting the flavors to create your perfect savory profile.
- Transfer this delicious medley into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly and topping it generously with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Place in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and beautifully golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions and a touch of fresh cilantro for that vibrant finish before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize this dish by adding additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using spicy taco seasoning.
- This dish can easily be prepared in advance. Just assemble everything in the baking dish and refrigerate before baking. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Cooking Techniques
Skillet Cooking: Using a skillet to brown your meat not only adds flavor but also helps in controlling the texture. Make sure to cook on medium heat to achieve that golden color.
Baking: Baking allows for that delicious cheesy crust to form on top, enhancing both the texture and taste of the dish. Keep an eye on it towards the end of cooking to prevent over-browning.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! Ground chicken or even a meat substitute can work beautifully in this dish.
- What can I serve with this pasta? This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or warm corn tortillas to scoop up the cheesy goodness.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Yes! Just omit the meat and add more veggies or a can of black beans for protein.
Conclusion
There you have it—a scrumptious Rotel Pasta that’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table! This creamy and cheesy Tex-Mex delight is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will have you coming back for more. Easy to prepare and with ingredients you probably already have on hand, it’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. So grab your forks and dig in — a fiesta of flavor awaits!