Whip Up Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef for a Delicious Meal!

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavor-packed pasta dish that’s easy to make, look no further than Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef. This irresistible creation combines tender penne pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce infused with the zesty, Tex-Mex flavors of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s sure to become a new weeknight favorite!

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Creamy Rotel Pasta

To make this delectable Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 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
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the easy-to-follow instructions for making this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat, if needed.
3. Sauté the Veggies: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the juice) and the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Make it Creamy: Add the heavy cream, cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and all the seasonings (chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic salt, cumin, and black pepper). Stir until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy Rotel sauce.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s melted and incorporated throughout the dish.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot and savor every bite!

Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Rotel Pasta

To take your Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef to the next level, consider these helpful tips:

• Cheese It Up: For an even cheesier pasta, feel free to add an extra 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little more heat, increase the amount of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Al Dente Perfection: Be sure not to overcook the penne pasta. Cook it just until it’s al dente for the best texture in the finished dish.
• Reheating Leftovers: Store any leftover Creamy Rotel Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce.

Nutritional Information

Indulging in this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your health. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 550
• Total Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 970mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 31g

For a lighter version, you can use low-fat or non-fat dairy products, reduce the amount of cheese, or serve the pasta with a side salad to balance out the creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Rotel dip with ground beef good for in the fridge?

Rotel dip with ground beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

What can I do with Rotel?

Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies are incredibly versatile! You can use them to make dips, soups, casseroles, and sauces like this Creamy Rotel Pasta. Rotel also works great in tacos, enchiladas, and breakfast dishes.

Do people put Rotel in their spaghetti?

Yes, many people do add Rotel to their spaghetti sauce for an extra burst of flavor and a touch of heat. The zesty, Tex-Mex flavors of Rotel pair wonderfully with the classic Italian spaghetti and ground beef combination.

Why do people put cream cheese in Rotel?

Cream cheese is a common addition to Rotel dip because it helps create a thick, creamy, and indulgent texture. The richness of the cream cheese balances out the tanginess and spice of the Rotel tomatoes and chilies, resulting in a dip that’s irresistibly delicious.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake
• One-Pot Spicy Chicken Pasta
• Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta with Ground Beef

Conclusion

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. With its irresistible blend of tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy Rotel-infused sauce, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or impressing guests, this Creamy Rotel Pasta is sure to become a new favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Give this delicious recipe a try and let us know how it turns out!

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