Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe
This Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal combining zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies, tender ground beef, and creamy cheeses tossed with elbow macaroni. The savory blend of garlic and onion powder enhances the rich flavors, making it a perfect quick and satisfying dinner that is hearty and full of zest.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Meat
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 pound ground beef
Cheese and Dairy
- One 8-ounce block of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables and Liquids
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the beef. Stir in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and the beef broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet in chunks. Stir constantly until the cream cheese has fully melted and created a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Add Cheddar Cheese and Pasta: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Then fold in the cooked elbow macaroni until evenly coated with the creamy beef and tomato sauce.
- Final Simmer and Serve: Allow the pasta to heat through for a couple more minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, flavorful meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, consider adding chopped jalapeños or hot sauce along with the tomatoes.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar for a lighter version.
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley add a bright finish and are optional.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish reheats well in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth or water to maintain creaminess.
Keywords: Rotel pasta, creamy pasta, ground beef pasta, cheesy pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe
