The aroma of ground beef sizzling away, paired with the lively tang of Rotel tomatoes, transports me to a cozy kitchen late on a Sunday afternoon. This Rotel Pasta with Creamy Cheese Sauce has become a staple for its effortless warmth and comforting flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-skillet meal is perfect for those busy nights when you just want to unwind and enjoy a satisfying dish without the fuss. Plus, with its creamy texture and mild spice, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table. So why not grab your favorite pasta and dive into this delicious recipe? You might just discover your new family favorite! Why is Rotel Pasta a Must-Try? Comforting Warmth: The creamy cheese sauce envelops the pasta and beef in a rich hug that’s perfect for chilly evenings. One-Skillet Convenience: Minimal cleanup is required, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Endless Flavor: The combination of Rotel tomatoes and spices creates a delightful taste profile that’s anything but boring. Customizable Options: Want it vegetarian? Try ground turkey! Prefer more heat? Just toss in jalapeños! Quick & Satisfying: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is both delicious and time-saving, making it perfect for any schedule. Rotel Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • Penne Pasta – The base of the dish; opt for gluten-free pasta for a healthier choice. • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; substitute with any neutral oil if needed. For the Meat • Lean Ground Beef – Adds protein and flavor; ground turkey or chicken are great lighter alternatives. • Yellow Onion – Brings sweetness; shallots can be used for a milder taste. • Garlic – Enhances flavor; freshly minced garlic is recommended for the best taste. For the Sauce • Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies – Provides spice and acidity; any canned diced tomatoes works if spice is balanced. • Beef Broth – Adds richness; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. • Heavy Cream – Creates creaminess; half-and-half or a plant-based cream works well too. • Cream Cheese – Contributes to the creamy texture; Neufchâtel is a lower-fat option. • Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami; choose vegan Worcestershire for plant-based diets. • Chili Powder – Provides heat; adjust according to your preferred spice level. • Smoked Paprika – Elevates the flavor with a smoky note; regular paprika or cumin can substitute. • Garlic Salt – Enhances overall seasoning; regular salt with extra minced garlic is a quick workaround. • Ground Cumin – Offers an earthy flavor; omit if you’re avoiding spices. • Black Pepper – For seasoning; adjust to your taste. For the Finish • Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Enhances creaminess and flavor; try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a twist. • Fresh Chopped Cilantro or Parsley – Ideal for garnish; leave out if there are allergies. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rotel Pasta Step 1: Cook Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing any excess water to drip off while you prepare the rest of your creamy Rotel pasta dish. Step 2: Brown Beef In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef along with the diced yellow onion. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. This step builds a savory base for your Rotel pasta, so keep an eye on the color change! Step 3: Add Garlic Once the beef and onions are cooked through, add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Stir it in and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic releases its aromatic scent, filling the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that sets the stage for your delicious creamy sauce. Step 4: Make Sauce Next, pour in the undrained Rotel diced tomatoes and 1 cup of beef broth, followed by the heavy cream and cream cheese. Add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a pinch of garlic salt, cumin, and black pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer on medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cream cheese has fully melted and the sauce is well blended. Step 5: Add Cheese Reduce the heat to low, then stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. This step transforms your sauce into the delightful, cheesy coating that will envelop your pasta, making your Rotel pasta indulgently rich. Step 6: Combine Pasta Carefully add the cooked penne pasta into the sauce mixture in the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is generously coated with the creamy sauce. The combination of flavors should meld beautifully, and you’ll see the pasta absorbing that delicious sauce, creating a comforting, hearty meal. Step 7: Serve To finish off your Rotel pasta, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve the dish hot right from the skillet, and enjoy this comforting one-skillet meal that’s perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with loved ones. Rotel Pasta: Endless Variations Await! Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize this delightful recipe to suit your family’s taste buds or dietary preferences! Vegetarian: Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative like Beyond Meat for a delicious vegetarian delight. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta for an equally satisfying dish suitable for those avoiding gluten. Creamy & Spicy: Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick that will tantalize your taste buds; the creaminess offsets the heat beautifully. Cheesy Twist: Mix in a blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a richer, more complex flavor profile. Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition; this adds a lovely crunch, enhancing the dish’s texture. Sausage Swap: Try using Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a delightful flavor lift; it pairs fantastically with the spices. Pasta Shape Variations: Experiment with different pasta shapes like shells or elbow macaroni for a fun twist on the classic. Make It zesty: Add a splash of lime or lemon juice before serving for a refreshing brightness that complements the rich flavors beautifully. For a fun cozy night, serve your Rotel Pasta alongside a scrumptious side Salad or some warm Garlic Parmesan Pasta to perfectly balance the meal! What to Serve with Rotel Pasta? A delightful meal deserves a host of tasty companions to enhance your dining experience. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy, buttery element that balances the meal beautifully. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with a tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the Rotel pasta, providing a fresh contrast that invigorates each bite. Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant florets not only add a pop of color but offer a healthy crunch that complements the creamy pasta dish wonderfully. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful sweetness to your plate, and its juicy kernels pair beautifully with the savory flavors of the Rotel pasta. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and slightly caramelized, they lend a nuttiness that brings depth to the overall dish experience, making every mouthful memorable. Spicy Jalapeño Poppers: For spice lovers, these cheesy bites add a decadent kick, enhancing the heat of the Rotel tomatoes while providing a crunchy contrast. Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, cleanses the palate between bites, allowing for the full flavors of the Rotel pasta to shine. Chocolate Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich slice of chocolate cake, bringing a delightful balance to the cheesy, savory goodness of your dinner. Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and add a vibrant burst of flavor, balancing the richness of the pasta splendidly. Make Ahead Options These creamy Rotel Pasta preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can cook the penne pasta and brown the ground beef up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the sauce, prepare everything except for the cheese, covering it tightly; it can be stored for up to 3 days without losing its rich flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply combine the prepared components in a skillet, add the cheese, and heat until bubbly and creamy. This make-ahead method ensures that your Rotel Pasta is just as delicious while making mealtime a breeze! Expert Tips for Rotel Pasta Perfect Pasta: Always cook the penne al dente to ensure it holds up against the creamy sauce; overcooked pasta can turn mushy. Layer Flavors: Sauté the onion until just translucent before adding garlic; this brings out their natural sweetness and prevents burning the garlic. Creamy Consistency: For a truly velvety sauce, whisk the cream cheese in thoroughly until fully melted; it’s essential for that rich Rotel pasta experience. Spice Control: Adjust the chili powder based on your spice preference; start with less and add more if you like it hot. Leftover Goodness: Store any leftover Rotel pasta in an airtight container, adding a splash of broth when reheating to keep it creamy and prevent drying. How to Store and Freeze Rotel Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Add a splash of milk or broth before sealing to keep the creamy texture intact. Freezer: Allow the Rotel Pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; for best results, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring frequently. Adding a bit of milk or broth while reheating helps restore its creamy consistency and prevent drying out. Rotel Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of pasta should I use for Rotel Pasta? Absolutely! I recommend using penne pasta as it holds the creamy sauce beautifully. However, you can easily swap it for gluten-free pasta or even other shapes like elbow macaroni or shells if you are feeling adventurous! How should I store leftovers? Very good question! Store your leftover Rotel Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To maintain that creamy texture, add a splash of milk or broth before sealing; this will help prevent it from drying out. Can I freeze Rotel Pasta? Yes, you can! First, allow the Rotel Pasta to cool entirely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stove. What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe? If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully as lighter options. For a vegetarian alternative, you can use a plant-based meat substitute or even black beans for added protein! Just make sure to season accordingly to keep the flavor intact. How can I adjust the spice level in Rotel Pasta? Great question! You can easily manage the heat by adjusting the amount of chili powder and opting for mild Rotel tomatoes instead of the spicy variety. If you want an extra kick, add fresh or pickled jalapeños to the mix for a delightful layer of flavor! What should I do if my sauce is too thick? If you find the sauce overly thick, simply stir in a splash of beef broth, milk, or cream until you reach your desired consistency. It’s best to do this gradually, as you can always add more liquid but can’t take it away! Creamy Rotel Pasta: A Comforting One-Skillet Delight This Creamy Rotel Pasta is a quick and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights, featuring ground beef and creamy cheese sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Penne Pasta opt for gluten-free pasta for a healthier choice1 tbsp Olive Oil substitute with any neutral oil if neededFor the Meat1 lb Lean Ground Beef ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives1 Yellow Onion substitute with shallots for a milder taste2-3 cloves Garlic freshly minced garlic is recommendedFor the Sauce1 can Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies any canned diced tomatoes works if spice is balanced1 cup Beef Broth use vegetable broth for vegetarian option1 cup Heavy Cream half-and-half or a plant-based cream can be used4 oz Cream Cheese Neufchâtel is a lower-fat option1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce choose vegan Worcestershire for plant-based diets1-2 tsp Chili Powder adjust according to your preferred spice level1 tsp Smoked Paprika regular paprika or cumin can substitute1 tsp Garlic Salt regular salt with extra minced garlic is a workaround1 tsp Ground Cumin omit if avoiding spices1 tsp Black Pepper adjust to your tasteFor the Finish1-2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a twist1 Fresh Chopped Cilantro or Parsley leave out if there are allergies Equipment Large potlarge skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Rotel PastaBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef along with the diced yellow onion. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Once the beef and onions are cooked through, add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Stir it in and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, pour in the undrained Rotel diced tomatoes and 1 cup of beef broth, followed by the heavy cream and cream cheese. Add Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, and seasoning. Allow this mixture to simmer on medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Carefully add the cooked penne pasta into the sauce mixture in the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is generously coated with the creamy sauce. To finish off your Rotel pasta, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Add a splash of milk or broth before sealing to keep the creamy texture intact. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
