Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef
Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a quick and hearty dish perfect for busy weeknight dinners, featuring creamy flavors and zesty Rotel tomatoes enveloping perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Protein base for adding richness and heartiness.
- 3 cups rotini pasta Twisted shape holds onto the creamy sauce.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel) Adds a zesty and slightly spicy kick.
- 1 cup heavy cream Essential for a luxurious creamy texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Brings flavor and creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Used for sautéing beef and vegetables.
- 1 small onion, chopped Provides a flavorful base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For added aroma.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Boosts flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cumin Enhances warmth and flavor.
- Salt to taste salt For seasoning.
- Pepper to taste pepper For seasoning.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish fresh cilantro, chopped Adds color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about five minutes until the onion turns translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into smaller pieces, and cook for approximately seven to eight minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes.
Cooking
- Stir in the can of Rotel diced tomatoes along with their juices into the beef mixture and let it simmer for about five minutes.
- Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently until blended. Allow it to simmer for an additional three to five minutes.
- Incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts and combines fully.
Assembly
- Drain the cooked pasta and transfer it into the creamy beef mixture in the skillet. Gently fold the pasta into the sauce, ensuring even coating.
- Cook everything together briefly over low heat for an additional two to three minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro.
Notes
Adjust the level of spiciness according to your preference. You can add more vegetables, swap cheeses, or make it vegetarian by replacing the meat with beans or lentils. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days, reheating as needed.