Name: Creamy Cheesy Rotel Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz rotini or penne pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

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A simple, creamy, and slightly spicy pasta that cooks quick and pleases kids and adults.

Table of Contents

introduction

This dish is creamy, cheesy, and has a little kick from diced tomatoes with chilies. It cooks fast and uses few ingredients, so you can make dinner in under 30 minutes. If you like rich pasta dishes, try this creamy shrimp alfredo with broccoli for another easy meal.

why make this recipe

Make this recipe when you want a filling meal with low effort. It is good for busy weeknights and for feeding a small group. The mix of meat, cheese, and Rotel gives strong flavor without many steps. You can also change ingredients to use what you have at home. For a different crowd-pleasing dip style, see this cheesy creamy buffalo chicken dip idea for party food.

how to make Creamy Cheesy Rotel Pasta

You brown the beef, add the Rotel and spices, pour in cream, then toss with cooked pasta and cheese. Work in this order so the sauce stays smooth and the cheese melts evenly. Keep heat medium to low after adding cream to avoid breaking the sauce. For a similar baked twist, check this cajun cream cheese chicken pasta bake for inspiration.

Ingredients :

12 oz rotini or penne pasta, 1 lb ground beef, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 can Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies), 1 cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat, draining any excess fat.
Add Rotel tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; stir and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream, mix well, and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and cheese is melted. Serve hot.

how to serve Creamy Cheesy Rotel Pasta

Serve hot right from the pan. Add extra shredded cheese on top if you like. A side salad or steamed vegetables pair well. You can also add chopped green onions or a spoon of sour cream for more flavor.

how to store Creamy Cheesy Rotel Pasta

Let the pasta cool to room temperature, then put it in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, or warm in the microwave in short intervals, stirring often.

tips to make Creamy Cheesy Rotel Pasta

Cook pasta just until al dente so it does not get soft when reheated.
Drain excess fat after browning the beef to keep the sauce smooth.
Use full-fat heavy cream and good cheddar for the best texture and taste.
Stir gently after adding cheese to avoid clumping.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.

variation (if any)

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or cooked sausage.
Add cooked vegetables like bell peppers or corn for more color.
Use pepper jack instead of cheddar for extra heat.
Make it meatless by using cooked mushrooms or a canned bean like black beans.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes. Rotini or penne work best, but any short pasta will do.

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a little cream cheese or a flour slurry to thicken if you use milk.

Q: Is this dish freezer-safe?
A: It can be frozen, but texture may change. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat slowly with a splash of milk.

Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add extra chopped green chilies, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cheesy Rotel Pasta is a quick and tasty meal that uses simple pantry items and gives big flavor. For a variation that adds sausage and a similar creamy texture, try this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Sausage | Butter Your Biscuit. For another take on creamy Rotel pasta, you can read this Creamy Rotel Pasta – CookWithCi.

Creamy Cheesy Rotel Pasta

Author: lamharmalmehdi25
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Beef

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