Rotel Pasta Fiesta: Quick One-Pot Beef Meal (Print Version)
Quick Rotel pasta fiesta with beef is a flavorful one-pot meal. Enjoy this easy weeknight dinner, packed with zesty tomatoes and savory ground beef.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Sizzling Start
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
03 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Fiesta Flavor Core
05 -
1 (10 oz) can Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies, undrained
06 -
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
07 -
2 cups beef broth
08 -
1 tbsp chili powder
09 -
1 tsp ground cumin
10 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
11 -
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
12 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Hearty Pasta & Creamy Finish
13 -
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
14 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened, cut into cubes
15 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
16 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more.
02 -
Pour in 1 (10 oz) can Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (undrained), 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce, and 2 cups beef broth. Stir in 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring this flavorful base for your Rotel Pasta Fiesta: Quick One-Pot Meal with Beef to a boil.
03 -
Stir in 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
04 -
Remove the pot from the heat. Add 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes, stirring until it is completely melted and smooth. This step is crucial for the creamy texture of your Rotel Pasta Fiesta: Quick One-Pot Meal with Beef.
05 -
Fold in 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and incorporated into the pasta mixture. This final touch brings together the rich flavors of your Rotel Pasta Fiesta: Quick One-Pot Meal with Beef. Continue stirring gently until the cheese creates a rich, gooey consistency throughout the dish.
06 -
Let the Rotel Pasta Fiesta: Quick One-Pot Meal with Beef rest, uncovered, for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, just before serving for a fresh finish.
# Notes:
01 -
For a different twist, try using ground turkey instead of beef, or swap elbow macaroni for penne. You can also experiment with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for the cheddar.
02 -
Leftovers store wonderfully! Keep any remaining Rotel Pasta Fiesta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
Serve this hearty one-pot meal with a simple green salad and some warm cornbread for a complete and satisfying dinner. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra fresh cilantro makes a great topping.
04 -
Adjust the spice level to your preference. For more heat, add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. For less, omit the cayenne entirely.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
06 -
Wooden spoon or spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 547 kcal
Total Fat: 29 g
Total Carbohydrate: 37 g
Protein: 34 g