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When you need comfort food with a bold twist and hardly any fuss Creamy Rotel Pasta is a game changer This Tex-Mex pasta wins over hungry kids and spice-loving adults alike with its creamy cheese sauce and signature zing from Rotel tomatoes I keep this recipe close when I want maximum flavor in minimal time
The first time I made this pasta it quickly became my go-to for busy nights Now it is the dish everyone asks for after a long day or cozy Sunday
Ingredients
- Penne pasta: Brings a toothy bite and holds sauce well Look for sturdy bronze-cut if possible
- Lean ground beef: Adds richness and protein Use freshly ground for best flavor
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth Choose a firm onion with papery skin
- Garlic: Delivers essential aroma and robust flavor Use fresh cloves for brightness
- Rotel: Diced tomatoes with green chilies Gives the Tex-Mex kick Opt for your ideal heat level mild or original both work
- Beef broth: Enhances meaty flavor and helps meld the sauce Low sodium allows more control over seasoning
- Heavy whipping cream: Creates an extra rich creamy base Avoid ultra-pasteurized if possible for better texture
- Cream cheese: Provides dreamy texture plus tanginess For easy mixing cube it before adding
- Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and savory notes Look for a brand with real anchovies for depth
- Chili powder: Brings smoky warmth Choose a fresh blend for most flavor
- Paprika: Lends subtle sweetness and color Spanish or Hungarian varieties shine here
- Ground cumin: Adds warmth and a hint of earthiness Buy whole and grind yourself if possible
- Salt: Essential for brightening all flavors Sea salt works best
- Black pepper: For a gentle heat and aromatic lift Use freshly cracked black pepper if you can
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for that creamy cling A must for the right consistency
- Water: Activates the cornstarch
- Mild cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly into the sauce Grate from a block for creamy texture
- Fresh cilantro: Optional garnish that adds freshness Use flat leaf for best color and flavor
- Jalapeno: Optional ring slices provide extra punch and crunch Fresh jalapenos are best for vivid heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil penne in a large pot of salted water until just al dente about one minute less than package directions Drain set aside This keeps the pasta firm enough to soak up creamy sauce later
- Brown the Beef and Onion:
- In a large deep skillet or pot add ground beef and diced onion Cook over medium-high crumbling the meat as it browns Continue until beef is fully cooked and onions are soft about eight minutes Add minced garlic Cook stirring until just fragrant takes about thirty seconds This layering builds a rich base
- Build the Sauce:
- Add drained Rotel tomatoes beef broth heavy cream cream cheese Worcestershire sauce chili powder paprika ground cumin salt and black pepper Stir well to blend Cream cheese may take a bit to melt so keep stirring until as smooth as possible
- Thicken the Sauce:
- In a small bowl combine cornstarch and water to form a smooth slurry Pour into the sauce mixture Stir and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and cream cheese is fully melted Takes about ten minutes
- Finish with Cheese:
- Add shredded cheddar cheese to the thickened sauce Stir gently until cheese is fully melted and sauce is velvety smooth
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add cooked penne to the skillet Toss thoroughly until every piece of pasta is coated in creamy spicy sauce Taste and adjust seasoning if needed
- Serve and Garnish:
- Spoon pasta into bowls Serve hot Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and optional sliced jalapenos for a fresh spicy touch
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I always look forward to adding extra fresh jalapenos on top The crunch and tingle take me back to summers grilling out when my family would load up anything with chilies for an extra punch One time we added a squeeze of lime and now it is a house rule
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep beautifully in a glass container with a tight lid Store in the refrigerator for up to three days When ready to eat spoon into a saucepan or microwave dish and reheat slowly Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce Pasta will be just as creamy as night one
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use other short pastas like rotini farfalle or elbows for a switch-up No beef Swap for ground turkey chicken or even plant-based crumbles For cheese fans pepper jack or Monterey jack add different flavors and melts Cream cheese can be swapped with mascarpone for an even silkier sauce
Serving Suggestions
Make this a one-bowl wonder or round out with a simple green salad and buttery garlic bread If you are feeding a crowd create a Tex-Mex bar with extra toppings cilantro diced red onions pickled jalapenos sour cream and tortilla strips Bright and fun for parties
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Cultural or Historical Context
Rotel tomatoes are an iconic Southern staple often used in Tex-Mex cooking Since hitting store shelves in the 1940s they have been the star of cheese dips and casseroles Using Rotel in pasta brings a modern twist to beloved southern flavors Combining rich dairy pasta and spicy chilies is now a tradition in many homes like mine
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes this pasta creamy?
The creamy texture comes from a blend of heavy whipping cream, cream cheese, and melted cheddar. This combination creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the pasta and beef perfectly.
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne is suggested, but rotini, farfalle, or elbow macaroni work well. Choose a short, sturdy shape to hold up to the hearty sauce.
- → How spicy is the dish?
The heat level depends on the Rotel tomatoes and cheese you use. For more spice, add jalapeños or pepper jack; for milder results, stick with mild Rotel and cheddar.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for up to three days. Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to preserve creaminess.
- → What toppings go well with this dish?
Fresh cilantro, green onions, or lime juice brighten up the flavors. Sliced jalapeños add heat, while extra cheese brings even more richness.
- → Can this dish be made ahead?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the meat sauce in advance and cook pasta when ready to serve. Reheat gently for best results.