Rotel Pasta is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines savory ground beef, creamy Velveeta cheese, and zesty Rotel tomatoes for a delicious, comforting meal. Perfect for feeding a large group or for having leftovers, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare. Here’s how you can make this delectable dish at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 blocks of Velveeta cheese (16 oz each; one white and one regular)
- 2 cans of Rotel tomatoes
- 1 lb pasta (any shape you prefer)
- Seasonings: Slap Ya Mama, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the instructions on the box. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, season the ground beef with Slap Ya Mama, garlic powder, onion powder, and a little cayenne pepper to taste. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned. If necessary, drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Add Rotel: Once the ground beef is cooked, add the cans of Rotel tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Melt the Velveeta: Cube the Velveeta cheese and add it to the skillet with the beef and Rotel mixture. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated with the cheesy, beefy mixture. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a little milk to reach your desired consistency, although this is optional.
- Serve: Serve hot, and enjoy the cheesy, spicy goodness of Rotel Pasta. This recipe makes a generous amount, perfect for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for later.
10 Reasons Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Cheesy Goodness: The combination of Velveeta cheeses creates a rich, creamy sauce that’s irresistible.
- Zesty Flavor: Rotel tomatoes add a touch of spice and tang that elevates the dish.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this dish is quick and easy to make.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef and pasta, it’s a satisfying meal that will keep you full.
- Versatile: Use any pasta shape you like, and adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, flavorful pasta.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep or leftover lunches.
- Customizable: Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrition and variety.
- Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients like ground beef and Velveeta, this dish won’t break the bank.
- Comfort Food: This creamy, cheesy pasta is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion.
Tips for Making the Perfect Rotel Pasta
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasonings to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or use a spicier variety of Rotel.
- Cheese Melting: Cut the Velveeta into smaller cubes to help it melt faster and more evenly.
- Pasta Choice: Any pasta shape works, but short pasta like penne, rotini, or macaroni holds the sauce well.
- Grease Management: Make sure to drain the grease from the ground beef to avoid a greasy final dish.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
How to Store Rotel Pasta
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: When reheating, stir occasionally to ensure even heating and add a little milk if the pasta appears dry.
Rotel Pasta is a delightful, flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of Velveeta cheese with the zest of Rotel tomatoes and the heartiness of ground beef and pasta. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the deliciousness of Rotel Pasta with your family and friends!
