Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today we’re diving into the world of Rotel Pasta, a creamy, hearty, and incredibly delicious dish. This Rotel Pasta recipe is a perfect weeknight meal, packed with rich flavors from Rotel tomatoes, melty cheddar cheese, and tender penne pasta. Whether you’re a fan of cheesy, savory comfort dishes or looking for a new way to impress family and friends, this recipe is a must-try.
Introduction: Discover the Perfect Comfort Dish
Rotel Pasta is a classic American comfort food that combines pasta, beef, and the bold flavors of Rotel tomatoes. Originally a Southern favorite, this dish has become a household staple, known for its ease of preparation and savory, creamy taste. The combination of Rotel’s tomatoes and green chilies with cream cheese and ground beef creates a balanced dish that is both satisfying and packed with flavor.
Whether you’re a busy parent needing a quick dinner or someone looking for a cozy meal to curl up with, this Rotel Pasta is an excellent option. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can easily be customized to suit different tastes.
Ingredients for Rotel Pasta
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need for this creamy Rotel Pasta recipe. Feel free to make substitutions for dietary restrictions or personal preferences:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish
Optional substitutions:
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Use gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Replace cheddar with a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for a different flavor profile.
How to Make Rotel Pasta – Step by Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and diced onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking up the beef, until browned and the onions are soft.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, add chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic salt, cumin, and black pepper to enhance the flavors of the beef mixture.
Step 4: Incorporate Rotel Tomatoes
Pour in the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes and mix everything well. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Add the beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Melt the Cheddar
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
Step 7: Combine with Pasta
Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, ensuring each piece is well coated with the rich Rotel sauce.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Serve the dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness. Enjoy!
Helpful Tips for Rotel Pasta
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion elevate the flavor more than their powdered versions.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer less heat, opt for mild Rotel tomatoes. For those who like it spicy, add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Creamy texture: To make the sauce extra creamy, consider adding a bit more cream cheese or heavy cream.
Cooking Tips for the Best Rotel Pasta
- Best cooking techniques: Use a heavy-bottom skillet to avoid scorching the sauce while simmering.
- Make ahead tip: Prepare the sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
- Rotel Pasta hacks: Save time by using pre-cooked ground beef or substituting with rotisserie chicken for a quick weeknight meal.
Serving Suggestions for Rotel Pasta
Pair this creamy Rotel Pasta with light and refreshing sides like a simple Caesar salad or garlic bread for added crunch. For a complete meal, you can serve it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
For beverages, a chilled glass of white wine or lemonade perfectly complements the bold flavors of this dish.
Nutritional Information for Rotel Pasta
This dish is not only comforting but also packed with protein and essential nutrients.
- Calories: 643 kcal
- Fat: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 31g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
Storage and Leftovers for Rotel Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the pasta or warm it in a skillet with a splash of beef broth or water to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.
For longer storage, you can freeze Rotel Pasta for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Rotel Pasta
- Can I use other pasta types? Yes, you can swap penne for fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti for a different texture.
- Is Rotel Pasta spicy? The dish has a mild kick from the green chilies, but you can adjust the spice by choosing mild Rotel or adding more chili powder.
- How can I make it vegetarian? Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or omit it altogether and add more veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms.
- Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, prepare the sauce and pasta separately and combine them right before serving for the freshest taste.
Related Recipes for Rotel Lovers
Conclusion: Try This Creamy Rotel Pasta Tonight
This Rotel Pasta recipe is your go-to for a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that’s easy to whip up. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with your own variations and share your feedback!
Print
Rotel Pasta Recipe: Creamy, Delicious & Easy Dinner
Description
Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today we’re diving into the world of Rotel Pasta, a creamy, hearty, and incredibly delicious dish. This Rotel Pasta recipe is a perfect weeknight meal, packed with rich flavors from Rotel tomatoes, melty cheddar cheese, and tender penne pasta. Whether you’re a fan of cheesy, savory comfort dishes or looking for a new way to impress family and friends, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish
Optional substitutions:
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Use gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Replace cheddar with a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and diced onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking up the beef, until browned and the onions are soft.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, add chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic salt, cumin, and black pepper to enhance the flavors of the beef mixture.
Step 4: Incorporate Rotel Tomatoes
Pour in the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes and mix everything well. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Add the beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Melt the Cheddar
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
Step 7: Combine with Pasta
Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, ensuring each piece is well coated with the rich Rotel sauce.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Serve the dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness. Enjoy!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion elevate the flavor more than their powdered versions.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer less heat, opt for mild Rotel tomatoes. For those who like it spicy, add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Creamy texture: To make the sauce extra creamy, consider adding a bit more cream cheese or heavy cream.
