Introduction
Rotel Pasta is a deliciously simple and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies, and melted cheddar cheese.
The combination of these ingredients over penne pasta creates a comforting meal perfect for any time of the year.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to share with friends and family, this dish offers both flavor and ease.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green
chilies
1/2 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat and add the chopped onions. Sauté the onions for about 2-3 minutes until.
they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef completely, ensuring it is cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
Once the beef is cooked, add the can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the beef and tomato mixture has cooked, add the drained penne pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is fully coated with the savory mixture.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and beef mixture. Stir until the cheese has melted and is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Serve the Rotel pasta immediately, either in a large bowl for family-style serving or plated individually. You can garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs, if desired.
How to Make
To make Rotel Pasta, start by cooking the penne pasta until al dente in boiling salted water. This ensures that the pasta retains its firm texture and holds up well when mixed.
with the other ingredients. While the pasta is cooking, focus on preparing the flavorful meat sauce. Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
ensuring it’s fully cooked and well-seasoned with the onions and garlic. This step is crucial as it builds the base of the dish’s flavor.
The star of the dish is the can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies. When added to the cooked beef.
these tomatoes bring both moisture and a mild spice to the dish. Letting this mixture simmer allows the flavors to develop, creating a robust sauce that will coat the pasta nicely.
After adding the cooked pasta, make sure to toss everything together well so that every bite is flavorful.
When the shredded cheddar cheese is added at the end, it provides a creamy and rich element that pulls everything together.
The cheese melts beautifully, adding a velvety texture to the dish. Once everything is mixed together and the cheese is fully melted, your Rotel Pasta is ready to serve.
Variations
If you’re looking to tweak the recipe to your preferences, there are several variations you can try.
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option while still keeping the dish hearty.
For a more vegetarian-friendly version, substitute the ground meat with black beans or lentils, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a burst of color and nutrients.
For those who enjoy extra heat, you can opt for a spicier version of the Rotel tomatoes, or add a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the skillet.
This will intensify the flavor and give the dish an added kick. Another variation involves using different.
kinds of cheese—pepper jack cheese adds both creaminess and spice, while mozzarella provides a milder, gooey texture.
If you want to make the dish even more indulgent, you can add sour cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce to make it extra creamy.
You could also try baking the dish in the oven with a breadcrumb topping for a crunchy twist.
For those looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap out the penne pasta for gluten-free pasta. This ensures the dish remains just as satisfying while accommodating dietary restrictions.
Tips
To ensure your pasta is perfectly cooked, always cook it according to the package instructions, but remember to check a couple of minutes before the recommended.
cooking time to avoid overcooking. If you’re preparing the dish ahead of time, consider undercooking the pasta slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.
If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a small splash of water or broth to loosen it up. On the other hand, if it’s too watery, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken.
For more flavor, you can brown the beef with a tablespoon of chili powder or cumin, which complements.
the Rotel tomatoes and adds depth to the dish. Fresh cilantro or parsley can be sprinkled on top to add freshness and color to your dish.
Feel free to customize the cheese by adding a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or any other cheese you love.
A stronger cheese like sharp cheddar will add a richer flavor, while a milder cheese will allow the other ingredients to shine.
If you prefer a less spicy dish, simply drain the Rotel tomatoes to remove the extra chilies, or use a milder variety of diced tomatoes.
The onions and garlic will still create a savory base for the dish.
This dish can also be served with a side of vegetables or a light salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
Consider pairing it with steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to restore moisture.
Conclusion
Rotel Pasta is an easy and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy days when you need something quick yet flavorful.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and exciting, thanks to the zesty Rotel tomatoes.
Whether you follow the traditional recipe or get creative with variations, Rotel Pasta is a versatile meal that everyone in your family will enjoy. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to become a regular on your dinner menu.