Creamy Tex-Mex Pasta Fiesta (Print Version)

A hearty pasta dish combining creamy sauce, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and melty cheddar cheese for the ultimate Tex-Mex comfort food.

# Ingredients:

01 - 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
02 - 1 lb ground beef or turkey
03 - 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained)
04 - 1 cup heavy cream
05 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
06 - 1 tsp taco seasoning
07 - ½ tsp garlic powder
08 - Salt and pepper, to taste
09 - Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 - In a skillet, brown ground meat over medium heat. Drain grease.
03 - Add Rotel, heavy cream, taco seasoning, and garlic powder to the meat. Simmer for 5 minutes.
04 - Stir in cooked pasta and mix to coat in sauce.
05 - Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
06 - Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro or parsley and serve hot.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Make Ahead: Cook pasta and brown meat in advance, store separately up to 2 days.
02 - Vegetarian: Use black beans and corn instead of meat.
03 - Protein Swap: Shredded chicken or tofu work well.
04 - Serve With: Garlic bread or a crisp salad.