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–+ servings

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Beef

A quick and delicious one-pan meal combining rotini pasta, ground beef, creamy cheese, and zesty tomatoes.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: DINNER
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Beef Ingredients
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta This spiral-shaped pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully.
  • 1 pound ground beef A classic choice for protein, ground beef adds heartiness to the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil This helps to sauté the onions and garlic, adding flavor and preventing sticking.
  • 1 small onion, diced Onions provide a sweet and savory base for the dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
  • 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel) This is the star ingredient, giving the dish its signature zesty kick.
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened Cream cheese creates a rich and creamy sauce that binds everything together.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Cheddar adds a sharp, cheesy flavor that complements the creaminess.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder This spice enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Cumin brings an earthy note that balances the dish.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional) A sprinkle of herbs adds a fresh touch and brightens the dish.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • pot

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and warm it up. Sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked for 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  2. While the beef is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
  3. In the same skillet, stir in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Add softened cream cheese, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until cream cheese melts and mixture is well combined, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Toss gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
  5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a few minutes to melt the cheese. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalProtein: 28gSodium: 800mg

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