A Spicy and Creamy Pasta Delight

How to Make Rotel Pasta Fiesta

1. Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Prepare the Sauce Base
  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Stir in the Rotel tomatoes and taco seasoning, cooking for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Add the Cream and Cheese
  1. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
  2. Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
4. Incorporate the Pasta and Protein
  1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the creamy sauce.
  2. If using protein (ground meat, chicken, or beans), fold it into the mixture.
  3. Adjust the consistency with the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
5. Serve and Garnish
  1. Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or plate directly from the skillet.
  2. Garnish with chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or extra cheese if desired.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy the fiesta of flavors!
PREPARATION