Introduction
Welcome to a comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of creamy cheese and zesty tomatoes, complimented by savory ground beef. This Creamy Rotel Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it’s quick to make and packed with a delightful combination of spices. Each bite promises a burst of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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 until it’s fully cooked, stirring occasionally. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, filling your kitchen with a warm and inviting aroma.
- Stir in the can of Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Mix everything together until the cream cheese melts and the sauce transforms into a silky, creamy texture.
- Season your mixture with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to infuse into the sauce.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a separate pot according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, then drain and set aside. This will give it the perfect chewy texture to complement the creamy sauce.
- With the pasta drained, fold it into the creamy beef mixture in the skillet. Stir gently until each piece of pasta is generously coated with that luscious sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and give it a moment to melt into the warm pasta before removing it from the heat. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Notes or Tips
- For added spice, consider using spicy Rotel tomatoes or adding fresh jalapeños to the mix.
- Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- If you have any leftovers (which is rare), this dish can be refrigerated for up to three days and reheated easily in the microwave.
Cooking Techniques
This dish relies on the technique of sautéing and merging flavors. Sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re just tender releases their sweetness, which balances beautifully with the acidity of the tomatoes. Combining all ingredients in one skillet helps meld the flavors together while keeping cleanup minimal. Plus, the melting cheese over the cooked pasta creates that irresistible, creamy texture that will have everyone at the table thrilled!
FAQ
- Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes! You may replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or simply add more vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.
- What type of pasta works best? Penne or rotini are fantastic choices as their shapes hold onto the sauce wonderfully, but feel free to use your family’s favorite!
- Can I freeze this pasta dish? Absolutely! Just make sure to cool it completely before portioning it into airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
This Creamy Rotel Pasta with ground beef is sure to become a staple in your household. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings the family together around the dinner table, filled with laughter and clean plates! Make this delightful dish any night of the week for a comforting meal that will warm you from the inside out. Enjoy every creamy bite!