![- 12 oz penne pasta - 1 lb ground beef - 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup chicken broth The heart of this dish is the penne pasta and ground beef. The Rotel adds a nice kick, while the cream cheese and cheddar create a rich, creamy sauce. Chicken broth gives moisture and flavor. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste These seasonings boost the flavor. Garlic and onion powder bring depth. Cumin adds warmth, and paprika gives a hint of smokiness. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste. - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Olive oil helps brown the beef nicely. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness at the end. For the full recipe, make sure to check the complete steps to create this mouthwatering dish. To cook penne pasta to al dente, start with a large pot. Fill it with water and add a good amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and stir it gently. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10 to 12 minutes. You want it firm to the bite, not mushy. Once the pasta is done, drain it in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta. Rinsing can wash away the starch that helps the sauce stick. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the beef and sauce. To brown the ground beef, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it warm up. Place the ground beef in the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes. Stir it often to get even browning. If there is too much fat, drain it off. This keeps the dish from being greasy. Now it's time to season the beef. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef with all the spices. This step brings out the flavor and makes your dish taste great. Pour in the can of Rotel, juices and all, along with 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir the mixture and raise the heat to let it simmer gently. Cook for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together nicely. Next, lower the heat and add 1 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts completely. This gives your dish a creamy, rich texture. Now, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together. Make sure the pasta is coated with the sauce. Finally, sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Stir until the cheese melts and combines with the pasta. This creates a deliciously creamy dish. Taste your creamy Rotel pasta and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add more salt or pepper. When you're ready to serve, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color. This step makes your dish even more appealing. Enjoy your flavorful delight! For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. To avoid clumping with cream cheese, always soften it first. Place it out for an hour or microwave it for 15 seconds. This helps it blend smoothly into the sauce. Stir it in slowly over low heat. Mixing well ensures a creamy finish. For melting cheese evenly, sprinkle it in gradually. This allows the heat to distribute evenly. Stir constantly to help it melt fully. If you see lumps, lower the heat and mix more. This keeps the texture smooth and creamy. For added depth, consider spices like cayenne pepper or Italian herbs. These bring warmth and complexity to your dish. You could also mix in diced bell peppers for crunch and sweetness. Before serving, taste your pasta. Adjust the seasoning with salt or pepper as needed. A squeeze of lime can also brighten the flavors. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference. For serving styles, use individual bowls. This makes each dish feel special. Top each bowl with extra cheddar and a sprig of cilantro for color. Creative serving plate ideas can elevate your meal. A colorful platter or rustic wooden board can catch the eye. A drizzle of lime juice around the pasta adds a fresh touch. It turns a simple dish into a feast for the eyes! {{image_4}} You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based alternatives. Options like lentils or crumbled tofu work well. You can also add more vegetables to enhance the dish. Try bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. They add color and crunch. Sauté them with the spices for added flavor. If you like heat, spice it up! Adding jalapeños gives a nice kick. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. For a milder dish, use less Rotel or choose a milder version. Always taste as you go to find the right balance. Cheese is key to this creamy dish. While cheddar is great, you can explore different cheese types. Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist. For more creaminess, add cream cheese or mascarpone. Both will enhance the smooth texture. Mix and match cheeses to create your perfect blend. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to get started! To keep your creamy pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. Wait for the pasta to cool down before sealing it. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make your dish soggy. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep it creamy. Stir gently to avoid sticking and keep the texture smooth. You can freeze creamy Rotel pasta if you won’t eat it within a few days. Portion it into freezer-safe containers. Label each container with the date. For thawing, place it in the fridge overnight. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove. Add a bit of broth to enhance the flavor and creaminess. Creamy Rotel pasta stays good in the fridge for up to four days. Check for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or mold. If it smells sour or looks strange, it’s best to toss it. This way, you’ll enjoy the delicious flavors without any risk. It takes about 30 minutes to make this dish. You need 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. This quick time makes it a perfect weeknight meal. Yes, you can use other pasta shapes. Feel free to swap penne for shells, rotini, or even spaghetti. Each type will hold the creamy sauce well, adding a fun twist to the dish. I recommend serving it with a simple salad or garlic bread. Steamed veggies also pair nicely. These sides balance the rich flavors of the pasta and add freshness to your meal. Absolutely! To make it more appealing to kids, you can cut the spice. Use mild Rotel or add a touch of sugar. Kids love cheesy dishes, so don’t skimp on the cheese. Serve it with a side of fruit for a complete meal. Creamy Rotel Pasta combines rich flavors and easy steps. We explored the key ingredients, from penne to ground beef, and the spices that make it pop. You learned how to cook pasta, brown beef, and mix everything for a creamy finish. I shared helpful tips to enhance flavor and presentation, plus variations to suit different tastes. Remember, you can store leftovers properly to enjoy later. This dish is not just a meal; it’s fun and flexible for everyone. Enjoy creating your own version of this creamy delight!](https://tossedtastes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/03dc48ff-8aa0-4b9f-9f41-f356aece57a4.webp)
If you’re craving a quick, hearty meal that bursts with flavor, you’re in the right place! My Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is the answer. This easy dish combines tender pasta with ground beef, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and rich cheeses—all in one pot. Whether you’re busy on a weeknight or want a comforting dish for family, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Creamy Rotel Pasta
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup chicken broth
The heart of this dish is the penne pasta and ground beef. The Rotel adds a nice kick, while the cream cheese and cheddar create a rich, creamy sauce. Chicken broth gives moisture and flavor.
Seasoning Essentials
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
These seasonings boost the flavor. Garlic and onion powder bring depth. Cumin adds warmth, and paprika gives a hint of smokiness. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste.
Cooking Essentials
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Olive oil helps brown the beef nicely. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.
For the full recipe, make sure to check the complete steps to create this mouthwatering dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
To cook penne pasta to al dente, start with a large pot. Fill it with water and add a good amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and stir it gently. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10 to 12 minutes. You want it firm to the bite, not mushy.
Once the pasta is done, drain it in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta. Rinsing can wash away the starch that helps the sauce stick. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the beef and sauce.
Preparing the Ground Beef
To brown the ground beef, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it warm up. Place the ground beef in the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes. Stir it often to get even browning.
If there is too much fat, drain it off. This keeps the dish from being greasy.
Now it’s time to season the beef. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef with all the spices. This step brings out the flavor and makes your dish taste great.
Combining Ingredients
Pour in the can of Rotel, juices and all, along with 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir the mixture and raise the heat to let it simmer gently. Cook for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together nicely.
Next, lower the heat and add 1 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts completely. This gives your dish a creamy, rich texture.
Now, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together. Make sure the pasta is coated with the sauce.
Finally, sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Stir until the cheese melts and combines with the pasta. This creates a deliciously creamy dish.
Taste your creamy Rotel pasta and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add more salt or pepper.
When you’re ready to serve, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color. This step makes your dish even more appealing. Enjoy your flavorful delight! For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Creamy Texture
To avoid clumping with cream cheese, always soften it first. Place it out for an hour or microwave it for 15 seconds. This helps it blend smoothly into the sauce. Stir it in slowly over low heat. Mixing well ensures a creamy finish.
For melting cheese evenly, sprinkle it in gradually. This allows the heat to distribute evenly. Stir constantly to help it melt fully. If you see lumps, lower the heat and mix more. This keeps the texture smooth and creamy.
Enhancing Flavor
For added depth, consider spices like cayenne pepper or Italian herbs. These bring warmth and complexity to your dish. You could also mix in diced bell peppers for crunch and sweetness.
Before serving, taste your pasta. Adjust the seasoning with salt or pepper as needed. A squeeze of lime can also brighten the flavors. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference.
Presentation Suggestions
For serving styles, use individual bowls. This makes each dish feel special. Top each bowl with extra cheddar and a sprig of cilantro for color.
Creative serving plate ideas can elevate your meal. A colorful platter or rustic wooden board can catch the eye. A drizzle of lime juice around the pasta adds a fresh touch. It turns a simple dish into a feast for the eyes!
Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based alternatives. Options like lentils or crumbled tofu work well. You can also add more vegetables to enhance the dish. Try bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. They add color and crunch. Sauté them with the spices for added flavor.
Spicy Version
If you like heat, spice it up! Adding jalapeños gives a nice kick. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. For a milder dish, use less Rotel or choose a milder version. Always taste as you go to find the right balance.
Cheese Variations
Cheese is key to this creamy dish. While cheddar is great, you can explore different cheese types. Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist. For more creaminess, add cream cheese or mascarpone. Both will enhance the smooth texture. Mix and match cheeses to create your perfect blend.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to get started!
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To keep your creamy pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. Wait for the pasta to cool down before sealing it. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make your dish soggy. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep it creamy. Stir gently to avoid sticking and keep the texture smooth.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze creamy Rotel pasta if you won’t eat it within a few days. Portion it into freezer-safe containers. Label each container with the date. For thawing, place it in the fridge overnight. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove. Add a bit of broth to enhance the flavor and creaminess.
Shelf Life Considerations
Creamy Rotel pasta stays good in the fridge for up to four days. Check for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or mold. If it smells sour or looks strange, it’s best to toss it. This way, you’ll enjoy the delicious flavors without any risk.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef?
It takes about 30 minutes to make this dish. You need 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. This quick time makes it a perfect weeknight meal.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes. Feel free to swap penne for shells, rotini, or even spaghetti. Each type will hold the creamy sauce well, adding a fun twist to the dish.
What can I serve with Creamy Rotel Pasta?
I recommend serving it with a simple salad or garlic bread. Steamed veggies also pair nicely. These sides balance the rich flavors of the pasta and add freshness to your meal.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! To make it more appealing to kids, you can cut the spice. Use mild Rotel or add a touch of sugar. Kids love cheesy dishes, so don’t skimp on the cheese. Serve it with a side of fruit for a complete meal.
Creamy Rotel Pasta combines rich flavors and easy steps. We explored the key ingredients, from penne to ground beef, and the spices that make it pop. You learned how to cook pasta, brown beef, and mix everything for a creamy finish. I shared helpful tips to enhance flavor and presentation, plus variations to suit different tastes. Remember, you can store leftovers properly to enjoy later. This dish is not just a meal; it’s fun and flexible for everyone. Enjoy creating your own version of this creamy delight!
![- 12 oz penne pasta - 1 lb ground beef - 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup chicken broth The heart of this dish is the penne pasta and ground beef. The Rotel adds a nice kick, while the cream cheese and cheddar create a rich, creamy sauce. Chicken broth gives moisture and flavor. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste These seasonings boost the flavor. Garlic and onion powder bring depth. Cumin adds warmth, and paprika gives a hint of smokiness. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste. - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Olive oil helps brown the beef nicely. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness at the end. For the full recipe, make sure to check the complete steps to create this mouthwatering dish. To cook penne pasta to al dente, start with a large pot. Fill it with water and add a good amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and stir it gently. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10 to 12 minutes. You want it firm to the bite, not mushy. Once the pasta is done, drain it in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta. Rinsing can wash away the starch that helps the sauce stick. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the beef and sauce. To brown the ground beef, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it warm up. Place the ground beef in the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes. Stir it often to get even browning. If there is too much fat, drain it off. This keeps the dish from being greasy. Now it's time to season the beef. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef with all the spices. This step brings out the flavor and makes your dish taste great. Pour in the can of Rotel, juices and all, along with 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir the mixture and raise the heat to let it simmer gently. Cook for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together nicely. Next, lower the heat and add 1 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts completely. This gives your dish a creamy, rich texture. Now, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together. Make sure the pasta is coated with the sauce. Finally, sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Stir until the cheese melts and combines with the pasta. This creates a deliciously creamy dish. Taste your creamy Rotel pasta and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add more salt or pepper. When you're ready to serve, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color. This step makes your dish even more appealing. Enjoy your flavorful delight! For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. To avoid clumping with cream cheese, always soften it first. Place it out for an hour or microwave it for 15 seconds. This helps it blend smoothly into the sauce. Stir it in slowly over low heat. Mixing well ensures a creamy finish. For melting cheese evenly, sprinkle it in gradually. This allows the heat to distribute evenly. Stir constantly to help it melt fully. If you see lumps, lower the heat and mix more. This keeps the texture smooth and creamy. For added depth, consider spices like cayenne pepper or Italian herbs. These bring warmth and complexity to your dish. You could also mix in diced bell peppers for crunch and sweetness. Before serving, taste your pasta. Adjust the seasoning with salt or pepper as needed. A squeeze of lime can also brighten the flavors. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference. For serving styles, use individual bowls. This makes each dish feel special. Top each bowl with extra cheddar and a sprig of cilantro for color. Creative serving plate ideas can elevate your meal. A colorful platter or rustic wooden board can catch the eye. A drizzle of lime juice around the pasta adds a fresh touch. It turns a simple dish into a feast for the eyes! {{image_4}} You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based alternatives. Options like lentils or crumbled tofu work well. You can also add more vegetables to enhance the dish. Try bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. They add color and crunch. Sauté them with the spices for added flavor. If you like heat, spice it up! Adding jalapeños gives a nice kick. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. For a milder dish, use less Rotel or choose a milder version. Always taste as you go to find the right balance. Cheese is key to this creamy dish. While cheddar is great, you can explore different cheese types. Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist. For more creaminess, add cream cheese or mascarpone. Both will enhance the smooth texture. Mix and match cheeses to create your perfect blend. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to get started! To keep your creamy pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. Wait for the pasta to cool down before sealing it. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make your dish soggy. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep it creamy. Stir gently to avoid sticking and keep the texture smooth. You can freeze creamy Rotel pasta if you won’t eat it within a few days. Portion it into freezer-safe containers. Label each container with the date. For thawing, place it in the fridge overnight. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove. Add a bit of broth to enhance the flavor and creaminess. Creamy Rotel pasta stays good in the fridge for up to four days. Check for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or mold. If it smells sour or looks strange, it’s best to toss it. This way, you’ll enjoy the delicious flavors without any risk. It takes about 30 minutes to make this dish. You need 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. This quick time makes it a perfect weeknight meal. Yes, you can use other pasta shapes. Feel free to swap penne for shells, rotini, or even spaghetti. Each type will hold the creamy sauce well, adding a fun twist to the dish. I recommend serving it with a simple salad or garlic bread. Steamed veggies also pair nicely. These sides balance the rich flavors of the pasta and add freshness to your meal. Absolutely! To make it more appealing to kids, you can cut the spice. Use mild Rotel or add a touch of sugar. Kids love cheesy dishes, so don’t skimp on the cheese. Serve it with a side of fruit for a complete meal. Creamy Rotel Pasta combines rich flavors and easy steps. We explored the key ingredients, from penne to ground beef, and the spices that make it pop. You learned how to cook pasta, brown beef, and mix everything for a creamy finish. I shared helpful tips to enhance flavor and presentation, plus variations to suit different tastes. Remember, you can store leftovers properly to enjoy later. This dish is not just a meal; it’s fun and flexible for everyone. Enjoy creating your own version of this creamy delight!](https://tossedtastes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/03dc48ff-8aa0-4b9f-9f41-f356aece57a4-300x300.webp)