why make this recipe

Rotel Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish that combines the bold flavors of seasoned ground beef and zesty Rotel tomatoes with creamy cheese and hearty pasta. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something easy yet delicious. This recipe is also great for feeding a crowd, making it an excellent option for gatherings or potlucks. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings!

how to make Rotel Pasta

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 can Rotel tomatoes
1 cup pasta (such as rotini or penne)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1 cup beef broth
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, or cilantro

Directions:

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, then drain the fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
Transfer the beef mixture to a crockpot.
Add the Rotel tomatoes, beef broth, and uncooked pasta to the crockpot, stirring to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the pasta is tender.
Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and mixed well.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with optional toppings.

how to serve Rotel Pasta

Serve Rotel Pasta warm in bowls. You can top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple garden salad or garlic bread.

how to store Rotel Pasta

To store leftover Rotel Pasta, let it cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Rotel Pasta

For extra flavor, consider adding taco seasoning to the ground beef while cooking.
You can use any type of pasta you prefer; just be mindful of the cooking time if using a different kind.
If you like it spicy, try using the hot version of Rotel tomatoes.

variation

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with black beans or lentils. For a creamier texture, add a bit of cream cheese or sour cream during the cooking process.

FAQs

Can I make Rotel Pasta on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?
Yes, you can cook it in a large pot on the stovetop. Prepare the beef and vegetables as directed, then add the other ingredients and let simmer until the pasta is cooked.

What can I use instead of beef broth?
You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer a different flavor or are looking for a lighter option.

How can I make Rotel Pasta spicier?
Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture for some extra heat! You can also choose spicy Rotel tomatoes for a bolder kick.

Rotel Pasta

Rotel Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish featuring seasoned ground beef, zesty Rotel tomatoes, creamy cheese, and hearty pasta, making it perfect for busy weeknights and gatherings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 3

Total Time 3 15

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef can be substituted with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian option
1 can Rotel tomatoes use hot version for extra spice
1 cup pasta (such as rotini or penne) any type of pasta can be used
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) can adjust cheese type for different flavors
1 cup beef broth can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

sour cream for added creaminess
green onions chopped
cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Preparation

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, then drain the fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
Transfer the beef mixture to a crockpot.

Cooking

Add the Rotel tomatoes, beef broth, and uncooked pasta to the crockpot, stirring to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the pasta is tender.
Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and mixed well.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving

Serve Rotel Pasta warm in bowls, topped with sour cream, green onions, or cilantro as desired.

Notes

To store leftovers, let cool and place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

Keyword crockpot meals, easy weeknight dinner, ground beef recipes, pasta recipes, Rotel Pasta