Cheesy Rotel Pasta Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that combines pasta, creamy cheese, and the zesty flavor of Rotel tomatoes. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces rotini or penne pasta
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• Optional: chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish

Timing

Making Cheesy Rotel Pasta Bake takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

1. Brown Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Mix Ingredients: In the skillet with the cooked meat, add the undrained Rotel tomatoes, black beans, tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat through for about 5 minutes.
2. Add Pasta and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the meat mixture, sour cream, corn, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the pasta mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Rotel Pasta Bake!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Cheesy Rotel Pasta Bake (per serving, based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	400
Protein	20g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	5g

Tips for Customization

• Meat Variations: You can substitute the ground beef or turkey with cooked chicken or sausage for different flavors.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more beans, vegetables, or even tofu.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a unique twist.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Cheesy Rotel Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

Conclusion

Cheesy Rotel Pasta Bake is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the cheesy goodness and zesty flavors in every bite!

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I serve with this pasta bake?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.