Rotel Pasta is a rich and savory dish that combines tender penne pasta with ground beef, tomatoes with green chilies, and a creamy cheese sauce. This hearty and flavorful meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend dish. With its blend of spices and creamy texture, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
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 of diced tomatoes with green chilies, including the liquid
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 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
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a finishing touch
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a vigorous boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package directions until it’s tender but still has a slight bite.Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Mix in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, or until it becomes aromatic.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, heavy cream, cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic salt, ground cumin, and black pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined and heated through.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Continue cooking for an extra 2-3 minutes to make sure everything is evenly heated and thoroughly mixed.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and fully incorporated into the pasta.
- Serve: Transfer the creamy Rotel pasta to serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley.
Conclusion
This creamy Rotel pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal that brings together the bold flavors of ground beef, tomatoes with green chilies, and a luscious cheese sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Enjoy this hearty and comforting pasta dish with family and friends!