Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate—Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef. This recipe is a symphony of flavors, combining the richness of cream cheese with the zing of diced tomatoes and green chilies. Picture yourself sitting down to a steaming bowl of this comforting pasta, where every bite is a creamy, cheesy embrace. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan meal comes together quickly and will have your loved ones asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup beef broth
- 8 oz pasta of your choice (rotini or penne recommended)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until it is fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and flavorful.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring occasionally until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and softened cream cheese. Mix everything together until the cream cheese is fully melted and creates a creamy sauce.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the mixture, ensuring it is well combined for a burst of flavor in every bite.
- In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy meat sauce in the skillet, stirring gently to coat every piece of pasta.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dish, allowing it to melt and create a gooey, cheesy layer before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness, if desired.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the pasta used for this dish; any shape will work beautifully!
- If you prefer a little more heat, consider adding jalapeños or using spicy Rotel tomatoes.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings—just make sure to use a bigger skillet!
Cooking Techniques
This dish highlights simple cooking techniques that yield delicious results. Browning the ground beef properly adds depth of flavor, while melting the cream cheese into the sauce ensures a rich and creamy texture. Cooking the pasta to the right level of doneness ensures it retains a lovely bite, which holds up well when tossed with the sauce.
FAQ
- Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy sauce ahead of time and simply cook the pasta just before serving. Reheat gently and combine. - What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken would work well, or for a vegetarian version, try using lentils or your favorite meat substitute.
Conclusion
Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. With its quick prep time and simple ingredients, it fits perfectly into any busy schedule while still delivering on flavor. So gather your loved ones around the table, dish out generous portions, and enjoy the smiles of satisfaction that follow. Happy cooking!