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A soul-warming skillet of creamy Rotel pasta brings together al dente penne, seasoned ground beef, and velvety cheese sauce infused with zesty tomatoes and green chilies. This one-pan wonder transforms simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece that's ready in under 30 minutes.
I've made this countless times for potlucks, and the skillet always returns empty. My family particularly loves gathering around the table on chilly evenings when this pasta's aromatic spices fill our kitchen.
Essential Ingredients Guide
- Penne pasta: Ridged tubes create the perfect sauce-catching pockets
- 90% lean ground beef: Offers rich flavor while keeping the dish from becoming too heavy
- Rotel tomatoes: The perfect balance of tomatoes and green chilies provides signature southwestern zest
- Heavy cream and cream cheese: Creates an irresistibly smooth, rich sauce base
- Fresh garlic and onion: Builds an aromatic foundation that elevates all other flavors
- Carefully selected spices: Smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder create depth and warmth
Creating Your Masterpiece
- Pasta Foundation:
- Boil generously salted water in a large pot. Cook penne until tender but still firm to bite, about 11 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
- Savory Base Creation:
- Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium flame. Brown beef with diced onions until meat is cooked through and onions turn translucent.
- Aromatic Enhancement:
- Add fresh minced garlic to the meat mixture, stirring until the kitchen fills with its enticing aroma.
- Sauce Development:
- Pour in Rotel tomatoes and broth, incorporating cream and softened cream cheese. Let the sauce gently simmer until it reaches a silky consistency.
- Final Assembly:
- Fold in the cooked pasta, allowing each piece to become thoroughly coated in the luxurious sauce.
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Growing up, my mother always insisted on using fresh garlic instead of powder, and this small detail makes a remarkable difference in depth of flavor. The aroma of fresh garlic hitting the pan brings back countless memories of family dinners.
Perfect Pairings
Transform this hearty pasta into a complete feast by serving alongside garlic-rubbed crostini and a crisp Caesar salad. For casual gatherings, pair with sweet corn muffins or buttery Texas toast.
Creative Twists
Experiment with different protein options like spicy Italian sausage or ground turkey. For a vegetarian version, substitute with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers. Add black beans and corn for a Mexican-inspired variation.
Keeping It Fresh
Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container, drizzling with a touch of cream to maintain moisture. Refrigerate up to 4 days. Reheat gently on stovetop, adding splashes of broth to revive the sauce's creamy texture.
After years of perfecting this recipe, I've found it's not just about the ingredients – it's about the love and attention to detail that transforms simple components into a memorable meal that brings people together.
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Common Questions About Cooking
- → Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make it up to 2 days ahead. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin the sauce.
- → What can I substitute for Rotel tomatoes?
- Use regular diced tomatoes mixed with a small can of diced green chilies as a substitute for Rotel tomatoes.
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Any medium-sized pasta works well - try rotini, shells, or fusilli instead of penne.
- → Is this dish very spicy?
- It has a mild to medium heat level from the Rotel tomatoes. Use mild Rotel for less heat.
- → Can I freeze this pasta dish?
- Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. The sauce might separate when thawed, so reheat slowly while stirring.