Description
Rotel Pasta Fiesta is a bold, cheesy, and flavor-packed Tex-Mex-inspired pasta bake. This one-dish wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, with ground beef, colorful bell peppers, spicy Rotel tomatoes, and gooey cheese. It’s hearty, zesty, and easy to make—comfort food with a fiesta twist!
Ingredients
250 g (8.8 oz) pasta (penne, rotini, or macaroni)
1 can (400 g / 14 oz) Rotel tomatoes (with green chilies)
300 g (10.5 oz) ground beef
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
200 g (7 oz) shredded cheese (cheddar or blend)
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook Pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Sauté Veggies:
Add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until soft and fragrant.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add Rotel tomatoes and stir. Return beef to the pan and mix well. Fold in the cooked pasta and stir until evenly coated.
5. Bake:
Transfer everything to a baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Make it spicier with hot Rotel or chopped jalapeños.
Substitute ground turkey or veggie crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex / American Fusion