Name: Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz Elbow Macaroni; 1 lb Ground Beef; 2 tbsp Olive Oil; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Pepper; 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (Rotel); 8 oz Cream Cheese; 1 cup Beef Broth; 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Jump to Recipe

Indulging in comfort food during the week is a joy that transforms any regular dinner into a delightful experience. One of my all-time favorites is a rich and creamy Rotel pasta with ground beef that is not only quick to prepare but also packs fantastic flavor. Picture perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, complemented by zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies. This dish is ideal for those cozy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef find a spot on your dinner table? Here are a few compelling reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to keep your family happy without breaking a sweat. Budget-friendly ingredients mean you won’t empty your wallet either. Plus, the flavor combination is simply irresistible; kids adore it, and adults will find themselves going back for seconds.

“This pasta dish has become a staple in our household! It’s easy to make, and everyone loves the creamy texture and kick from the Rotel. Highly recommend for a weeknight dinner!” – A satisfied home cook.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Ready to dive into this delicious dish? You’ll want to gather a few items and follow these streamlined steps. It’s a straightforward process that will lead you to a plate of comforting goodness.

Cook your pasta.
Brown the beef.
Add the remaining ingredients.
Combine and let simmer.
Serve!

With these quick steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to go with minimal fuss.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Here’s your shopping list for this creamy pasta goodness:

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8 oz Elbow Macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
1 lb Ground Beef (feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option)
2 tbsp Olive Oil (canola oil works too)
1 tsp Garlic Powder (bring in fresh minced garlic for an extra kick)
1 tsp Onion Powder (or diced fresh onion for added texture)
1 tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
1 tsp Pepper (adjust to taste)
1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (Rotel) (sub plain diced tomatoes with spices if needed)
8 oz Cream Cheese (consider sour cream for a tangy twist)
1 cup Beef Broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or substitute with Monterey Jack or a dairy-free alternative)

Step-by-Step Directions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, incorporate the ground beef. Cook until browned and thoroughly cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add Flavor: Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Combine Ingredients: Pour in the can of Rotel, cream cheese, and beef broth. Mix until the cream cheese is melted and everything is creamy.
Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to ensure the pasta is coated in the creamy mixture.
Cheesy Finish: Finally, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and combined.
Serve Hot: Allow it to cool for a minute before serving to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy!

Best Way to Serve

This creamy pasta dish shines on its own but can easily be elevated with thoughtful pairings. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast or some garlic bread for a dose of crunch. You could even toss in some sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. For an added flair, top with freshly chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream.

Storage Tips

Leftover Creamy Rotel Pasta can be safely stored for later enjoyment. Place it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last about 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to maintain that creamy consistency. If you’re considering freezing, this dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, but prepare for slight variations in texture upon thawing.

Pro Chef Tips

Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and portion it out for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Flavor Boost: For a deeper flavor profile, sauté the beef with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or even add a little cumin or chili powder for some warmth.
Creaminess Adjustment: If you find the dish too thick, simply add a bit more broth or milk when reheating.

Creative Twists

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Substitute the ground beef with ground sausage for a spicier kick, or try adding different kinds of cheese like pepper jack for extra flavor. You can also make it vegetarian by including black beans and tossing in your favorite veggies. The options are endless!

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?

Cooking this dish takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the cream cheese and cheddar cheese with dairy-free alternatives to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.

How should I safely store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth to regain creaminess.

Embrace the warmth and satisfaction that this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef brings to your table. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, it’s sure to become a family favorite!