Rotel Pasta

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This Creamy Rotel Beef Pasta is a flavorful one-pan meal combining tender penne pasta with savory ground beef simmered in a rich, cheesy Rotel tomato sauce. Infused with smoky spices and creamy cheeses, it’s comfort food with a spicy kick—perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and easy one-skillet meal

• Creamy, cheesy sauce with a spicy Rotel twist

• Budget-friendly with pantry staples

• Ideal for family dinners or meal prep

Ingredients Breakdown:

Pasta & Protein:

• 1 pound penne pasta – The hearty pasta base that holds the creamy sauce.

• 1 pound lean ground beef – Adds savory, meaty flavor and protein.

Vegetables & Aromatics:

• 1 yellow onion, diced – Provides sweetness and depth.

• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic pungency.

Sauce Components:

• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained – Gives the sauce its signature tangy and mildly spicy flavor.

• 1 cup beef broth – Adds richness and helps create the sauce base.

• 1/2 cup heavy cream – Brings smoothness and creaminess.

• 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened – Thickens the sauce and adds luscious texture.

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Boosts umami depth.

Seasonings & Spices:

• 1 teaspoon chili powder – Adds warmth and mild heat.

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives smoky undertones.

• 1 teaspoon garlic salt – Enhances savory flavor.

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds earthiness.

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds subtle spice.

Cheese & Garnish:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the sauce for gooey cheesiness.

• Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley – Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use fresh, softened cream cheese for smooth sauce consistency.

• Adjust spice level by adding more or less Rotel green chilies.

• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of milk or more heavy cream.

• Leftovers store well and reheat beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Variations and Customizations:

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

• Add sautéed bell peppers or jalapeños for extra veggies and heat.

• Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top for a crunchy texture.

• Mix in black beans or corn for a Tex-Mex twist.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.

• Pair with garlic bread or warm tortillas for a full meal.

• Enjoy with a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if sauce thickens too much.

Popular Questions:

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne works best but rigatoni, rotini, or shells are great alternatives.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat level thanks to the Rotel tomatoes. Adjust by choosing mild or hot Rotel or adding extra chili powder.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare sauce in advance and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Rotel Pasta

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Creamy Rotel Beef Pasta – Tender penne and savory ground beef smothered in a spicy, cheesy Rotel tomato sauce—ready in one pan for an easy, bold weeknight meal

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef and Onions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the meat, until beef is browned and onions are tender, about 5–7 minutes.

3. Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Build the Sauce

Add undrained Rotel tomatoes, beef broth, heavy cream, cream cheese cubes, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic salt, cumin, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

5. Simmer and Thicken

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

6. Melt in Cheddar Cheese

Lower heat to low and add shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until melted and the sauce is smooth.

7. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy Rotel sauce.

8. Serve

Plate the pasta hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

• This recipe balances creaminess and spice for a comforting dish everyone will enjoy.

• Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

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