Introduction
If you’re dreaming of a dinner that’s not only hearty but bursting with flavor, look no further than this delectable Rotel Pasta Fiesta! This creamy, cheesy Tex-Mex dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Picture a velvety sauce enveloping tender pasta, with pops of zesty tomatoes, nutritious black beans, and sweet corn adding their own unique twist. Topped off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (rotini or penne work well)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp taco seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until it reaches al dente perfection. Once done, drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, combine the softened cream cheese and chicken broth over medium heat. Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the cream cheese has melted and everything comes together into a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the creamy mixture, gently stirring until every piece is well-coated and deliciously inviting.
- Gradually fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it has melted and integrated into the sauce, creating a rich and cheesy wonder.
- Remove the pot from heat and allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes. This helps it thicken just a bit, enhancing that creamy texture.
- Serve your Rotel Pasta Fiesta warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for an added pop of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this dish to your family’s taste! For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. If you’re looking to make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken broth or use vegetable broth instead. This recipe can be easily doubled if you’re hosting a larger crowd!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases a few great techniques that make cooking simple yet impressive. Cooking pasta correctly ensures a perfect texture; remember to salt the water! Melting cream cheese into the mixture creates a wonderfully creamy sauce, and folding in the cheese at the end prevents it from clumping, ensuring a smooth and luscious final product. Don’t forget the power of garnishing — a touch of fresh cilantro brings everything together beautifully!
FAQ
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes! You can make the dish a few hours ahead and keep it warm on the stove or refrigerate and reheat before serving. Just be aware it may need a bit of additional broth to restore its creaminess.
What can I serve with this dish? This cheesy pasta dish is wonderful on its own, but you could pair it with a fresh green salad or some warm tortillas for a complete Tex-Mex experience!
Conclusion
Rotel Pasta Fiesta isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm invitation to gather around the table and enjoy a flavorful culinary experience with loved ones. With its creamy texture and delightful Tex-Mex flavors, this recipe has all the elements to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy the comforting embrace of this creamy, cheesy delight!