Rotel Pasta is a quick, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights. Made with ground meat, melty cheese, and a zesty kick from Rotel tomatoes and peppers, it’s a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Why We Love This Rotel Pasta Recipe
What makes Rotel Pasta so appealing? The answer lies in its simplicity and versatility. The flavor combinations in this dish are easy to customize based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love. The combination of ground beef and sausage adds a hearty touch, while the addition of Rotel gives it a delightful kick. Plus, cheese lovers will appreciate the creamy Velveeta cheese that brings everything together.
This recipe is not only delicious but also comes together in about thirty minutes, making it an excellent choice for those busy nights. With its colorful presentation and solid flavor profile, Rotel Pasta will quickly become a go-to in your meal rotation.
Ingredients About Rotel Pasta
To create your own mouthwatering Rotel Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 12 ounces penne pasta (cooked and drained)
- 1/2 yellow onion (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (diced)
- 2 (10 ounce) cans Rotel (undrained)
- 16 ounces Velveeta cheese (cubed)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
With these straightforward ingredients, you’re set to create a delicious dish that everyone will talk about!
How to Make Rotel Pasta Directions
Making Rotel Pasta is a straightforward process that’s perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. Follow these steps for a delightful meal that’s big on flavor.
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Meats: In a large skillet, heat it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sausage to the skillet.
Add Vegetables: After a few minutes, when the meats start to brown, add in the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper. Stir occasionally and cook until the vegetables are tender and the meat is no longer pink.
Season and Combine: Once the meat and vegetables are cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet. Season the mixture with onion powder and garlic powder.
Add Rotel and Cheese: Next, pour in the undrained cans of Rotel and the milk. Stir everything together thoroughly. Begin adding in the cubed Velveeta cheese, mixing until it’s melted and creamy.
Mix in the Pasta: After the cheese has melted and combined with the other ingredients, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Stir well until all the pasta is coated with the cheesy sauce.
Serve: Once everything is combined, your Rotel Pasta is ready to be served.
This process takes about thirty minutes, leaving you with a delicious creamy dish that boasts vibrant colors and flavors.
How to Serve Rotel Pasta
When it comes to serving Rotel Pasta, there are plenty of options to consider. You can serve it straight from the skillet, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or extra cheese if desired. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with a side salad, providing a delightful contrast.
You might also consider serving it alongside some crunchy garlic bread for a delicious meal that covers all flavor profiles. For an extra touch, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on the side for those who love a little kick.
If you’re thinking about portion sizes, this recipe typically serves about six people, making it ideal for family dinners or a small gathering with friends.
Expert Tips: Rotel Pasta
Here are some expert tips to make the most out of your Rotel Pasta:
- Choose Your Meats: You can easily swap out the ground beef or sausage for turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also try using only one type of meat if you prefer.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While Velveeta adds creaminess, feel free to mix in other cheese types such as Monterey Jack or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the Heat: If you like things spicy, consider adding chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper along with the Rotel.
- Add Some Greens: Feel free to throw in some fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrients without changing the flavor too much.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot cheese mixture.
By following these tips, you can elevate your Rotel Pasta experience, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor!
How to Store Rotel Pasta
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely, but can happen!), storing Rotel Pasta is quite simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For even longer storage, consider freezing the Rotel Pasta. Place the cooled pasta in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring all the air is pressed out. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.
Variation of Rotel Pasta
While the classic Rotel Pasta recipe is already bursting with flavor, don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or flavors! Here are some variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Rotel Pasta: Substitute ground meat with a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, corn, or mushrooms. Add in beans for protein and enhance the flavor even more.
- Seafood Twist: Consider adding shrimp or crabmeat for a seafood version of this dish. Just cook the seafood separately and mix it in once the cheese is melted.
- Mexican Inspired: Spice it up by adding black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Top with avocado slices and cilantro for a fresh touch.
- Baked Version: After mixing the pasta with the cheesy sauce, transfer it to a baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Feel free to experiment with these variations or create your own!
FAQ about Rotel Pasta
What is Rotel Pasta?
Rotel Pasta is a creamy pasta dish made with ground beef, sausage, diced bell peppers, and those iconic tomatoes and green chilies known as Rotel. It’s rich and flavorful, perfect for quick dinners.
How can I make Rotel Pasta spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, try adding chopped jalapeños or use a spicy variety of Rotel tomatoes. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper while cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Rotel Pasta a few hours in advance and keep it warm on low heat. It also refrigerates well!
What should I serve with Rotel Pasta?
Rotel Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or even some crusty rolls. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on the side.
How long does Rotel Pasta last in the fridge?
When stored correctly in an airtight container, leftover Rotel Pasta can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3 days.
Rotel Pasta
Ingredients
Meats
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground sausage
Pasta and Dairy
- 12 ounces penne pasta (cooked and drained)
- 16 ounces Velveeta cheese (cubed)
- 1/2 cup milk
Vegetables
- 1/2 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 1 medium red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper (diced)
- 2 cans Rotel (10 ounces each, undrained)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Meats
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and sausage to the skillet.
Add Vegetables
- When the meats start to brown, add in the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper. Stir and cook until vegetables are tender and meat is no longer pink.
Season and Combine
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet and season with onion powder and garlic powder.
Add Rotel and Cheese
- Pour in the undrained cans of Rotel and milk. Stir together thoroughly. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
Mix in the Pasta
- Once the cheese has melted, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat with the cheese sauce.
Serve
- Your Rotel Pasta is ready to be served! Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or additional cheese.