If there’s one dish that knows how to turn up the volume on a weeknight dinner, it’s this Rotel Pasta Fiesta. Bursting with bold, zesty flavor from diced tomatoes and green chilies, combined with rich ground beef, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta—it’s comfort food with a summer kick.
Quick, satisfying, and made with pantry staples, this one-pan wonder is just the thing for busy evenings, casual gatherings, or when you’re simply craving a little spice in your life.
🥄 Why You’ll Love This Pasta
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Tex-Mex meets creamy pasta: The perfect fusion of cheesy comfort and zesty heat.
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Family favorite: It’s got that nostalgic cheesy-beefy vibe everyone loves.
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One skillet magic: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
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Perfect for summer potlucks: Crowd-pleasing and easy to double.
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Flexible & budget-friendly: Use what you have—Rotel, ground beef, any pasta!
📝 Ingredients (6 Servings)
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12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
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1 lb lean ground beef
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1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (do not drain)
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1/2 onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp taco seasoning (or a mix of cumin, chili powder, and paprika)
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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4 oz cream cheese
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
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1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
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Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
⏱ Prep & Cook Time
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Yield: 6 servings
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
Add garlic, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Rotel
Pour in the can of Rotel (undrained) and stir. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese and sour cream. Cook until smooth and combined.
Step 6: Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water. Toss to coat. Stir in shredded cheese and mix until melty and combined.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Spoon into bowls and top with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for color and zing. Serve hot and enjoy!
🌞 Why It’s Perfect for Summer
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No oven needed: Stovetop-only keeps your kitchen cool.
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Quick & fuss-free: Dinner on the table in 30 minutes.
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Crowd-friendly: A hit at block parties, potlucks, or backyard dinners.
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Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
💡 Tips & Variations
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Swap the protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even black beans for a vegetarian twist.
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Add veggies: Bell peppers, corn, or zucchini add a fresh crunch.
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Make it spicier: Use Rotel Hot, extra jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce.
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More Tex-Mex flair: Add a teaspoon of cumin and a squeeze of lime juice at the end.
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Baked version: Pour into a casserole dish, top with more cheese, and broil until bubbly!
🧊 Storage & Reheating
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Microwave with a splash of milk or water, or warm gently in a skillet.
🌶️ What is Rotel?
Rotel is a beloved blend of diced tomatoes and green chilies, known for its signature tangy heat. It’s a pantry MVP for Tex-Mex dishes and adds instant flavor to everything from queso to casseroles—and yes, this pasta!
🔁 More Spicy & Cheesy Meals You’ll Love
🗣️ Let’s Fiesta!
Did you make this Rotel Pasta Fiesta?
Share your spicy skillet magic by tagging @sarahsseasonaltreats on Instagram and using #RotelPastaFiesta. Show us how you served it—topped with avocado, more cheese, or eaten right out of the pan (we won’t judge).