Rotel Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and packed with just the right kick from diced tomatoes and green chilies. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you crave comfort food with a little spice.
Why We Love This Rotel Pasta Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this Rotel pasta recipe. First and foremost, it strikes a perfect balance between being easy to prepare and delivering an explosion of flavors in every bite. With simple ingredients mostly found in your pantry, this recipe cuts down on prep time without compromising taste. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder—after cooking the pasta, the rest of the dish comes together in a single skillet. This makes clean-up a breeze!
The blend of creamy textures with a hint of spice and a touch of freshness from the herbs creates a symphony of flavors that keeps you coming back for more. You can also customize it to your liking, allowing you to experiment with various ingredients while ensuring that the meal is suitable for everyone at your table.
Ingredients for Rotel Pasta
To prepare this mouthwatering Rotel pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion (chopped)
- 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (10 ounces)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
How to Make Rotel Pasta
Creating this delicious Rotel pasta dish is straightforward and doesn’t require culinary expertise. Simply follow these easy steps for a delightful meal that your family will enjoy:
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the pound of lean ground beef along with the chopped yellow onion. Cook while stirring occasionally until the meat is browned, and the onions are tender. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
Create the Flavor Base: Once the meat and onions are cooked, stir in the can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic salt, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Incorporate the Creaminess: Reduce the heat and begin stirring in the heavy whipping cream and cream cheese. Mix until both are completely incorporated and you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
Combine with Pasta: Carefully add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to ensure that every piece is well-coated in the flavorful sauce.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta. Allow it to melt into the warm dish, merging its rich flavor with the other ingredients.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, serve the pasta warm, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of fresh flavor.
How to Serve Rotel Pasta
Serving Rotel pasta is as easy as preparing it. After dotting the dish with fresh cilantro or parsley, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
- Pair with Salad: A light green salad with a tangy dressing can complement the richness of the pasta, adding a refreshing bite that balances the meal.
- Accompany with Bread: Garlic bread or fresh rolls are great options to soak up any leftover sauce, making your meal even more satisfying.
- Offer Additional Toppings: Set out extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, or more shredded cheese, allowing guests to customize their dishes to perfection.
Expert Tips for Rotel Pasta
Creating a stellar Rotel pasta dish can be enhanced with a few expert tips. Here’s how you can elevate your recipe:
- Mix Up the Protein: While lean ground beef is fabulous, feel free to experiment with other proteins like ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a unique twist.
- Watch the Heat: If you prefer a more muted spice level, drain the liquid from the Rotel before adding it to the skillet, as this can tone down the heat.
- Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach into the skillet along with the onions. This will bring a delightful texture to the dish.
- Cook Pasta al Dente: It’s essential to not overcook the penne pasta. Al dente pasta has a firm bite and allows it to hold up better when tossed with the sauce.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to add more heavy cream or cream cheese, tailoring it to your taste preferences.
How to Store Rotel Pasta
Once you’ve prepared your Rotel pasta and have leftovers, proper storage is key to maintaining its flavor and texture. Here are some essential tips:
- Refrigerate Promptly: After the meal, allow the pasta to cool down before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerating promptly ensures food safety and keeps it fresh.
- Use Within a Few Days: Try to consume the stored Rotel pasta within three to four days to enjoy optimal taste.
- Reheat Gently: When ready to eat, reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to help bring back the creaminess. Stir gently to ensure it heats evenly.
Variations of Rotel Pasta
One of the best things about Rotel pasta is its adaptability. Here are some exciting variations to try:
- Cheesy Spinach Rotel Pasta: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking to add nutrients and color while infusing the dish with vibrant flavors.
- Mexican-Inspired Rotel Pasta: Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the mixture for a southwestern twist that complements the existing flavors beautifully.
- One-Pot Rotel Pasta: For minimal cleanup, try making everything in one pot. Add uncooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce, adjusting the liquid content as necessary to ensure adequate cooking.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the meat entirely for mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite vegetables, making it a satisfying vegetarian dish that everyone can enjoy.
- Spicy Shrimp Rotel Pasta: For a seafood twist, toss in shrimp just after the sauce begins to simmer, cooking until they turn pink and perfectly cooked.
FAQ About Rotel Pasta
What is Rotel pasta?
Rotel pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring penne pasta cooked with lean ground beef and a delicious sauce made from Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, seasoned with various spices.
Can I make Rotel pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare Rotel pasta ahead of time. Store the cooked dish in the refrigerator for up to four days and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy your meal.
How do I make Rotel pasta spicier?
To amp up the heat in your Rotel pasta, consider adding some diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or even a dash of hot sauce when preparing the sauce.
Is Rotel pasta suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Rotel pasta makes for an excellent meal prep option. Its great flavor holds up well when stored and reheated, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Rotel Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Base
- 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked) Cook until al dente
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
- 1 pound lean ground beef Can substitute with other proteins
- 1 large yellow onion (chopped) Adds sweetness and depth
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (10 ounces) Provides spice and flavor
- 1 cup beef broth Use low-sodium if preferred
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Adds umami flavor
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust for heat preference
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt Enhances overall flavor
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds a smoky depth
Cream and Cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream For creaminess
- 1/4 cup cream cheese Ensure it's softened for easy mixing
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese For topping and flavor
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped) For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onions are tender. Drain excess fat.
Cooking
- Stir in the Rotel diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic salt, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until thickened.
- Reduce heat and mix in the heavy whipping cream and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Top with the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the dish.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley.