A delightful blend of cheesy pasta and spicy Rotel tomatoes, this comforting dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.
Servings 4servings
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Ingredients
Pasta and Proteins
8ozElbow MacaroniFeel free to use any pasta shape you love.
1lbGround BeefSubstitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Oils and Seasonings
2tbspOlive OilCan be swapped for canola oil if preferred.
1tspGarlic PowderFresh minced garlic can kick it up a notch.
1tspOnion PowderReplace with finely diced fresh onion for extra texture.
1tspSaltAdjust to taste for perfect seasoning.
1tspPepperAdjust to taste for perfect seasoning.
Main Ingredients
1canDiced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (Rotel)If unavailable, use plain diced tomatoes with spices.
8ozCream CheeseConsider sour cream for a tangy twist.
1cupBeef BrothKeep it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead.
1cupShredded Cheddar CheeseFeel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or a dairy-free alternative.
Method
Cooking Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Browning the Beef
In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Adding Seasonings
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine the flavors.
Incorporating Tomatoes
Add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies to the pot, stirring well.
Making it Creamy
Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
Combining with Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and stir to incorporate. Return the drained pasta to the pot, mixing everything together until well combined.
Finishing Touch
Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving
Serve hot and enjoy your deliciously creamy Rotel pasta!
For a lighter dish, swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option. Mix in some cooked veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. For extra heat, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.