Creamy Rotel Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Any Occasion

Creamy Rotel Pasta is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. As someone who loves experimenting with different recipes, I can confidently say that this creamy pasta is a crowd-pleaser. Originating from the classic combination of pasta and the zesty Rotel tomatoes, this dish has become a staple in many households, especially in the Southern United States. The creamy texture combined with the tangy kick of the tomatoes creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds.

People adore Creamy Rotel Pasta not only for its rich flavor but also for its convenience. It’s a one-pot wonder that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The creamy sauce envelops each piece of pasta, creating a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of rotini pasta
• 1 can (10 ounces) of diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of cooked and crumbled sausage (optional)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to the water; it helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. 2. Once the water is boiling, add the 8 ounces of rotini pasta. Stir it gently to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. 3. While the pasta is cooking, prepare a colander in the sink. Once the pasta is done, drain it well and set it aside. I like to reserve a cup of the pasta water just in case I need to adjust the sauce later.

Making the Creamy Sauce

4. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. If you’re using sausage, add it to the skillet now and cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. If you’re skipping the sausage, just heat the oil. 5. Once the sausage is cooked (or if you’re not using it, just the oil is heated), add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. The tomatoes will release some juices, which will help create a flavorful base for the sauce. 6. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine with the tomatoes. The cream will help to mellow out the acidity of the tomatoes and create a rich, creamy texture. 7. Now, it’s time to add the seasonings. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully. 8. After the sauce has simmered, reduce the heat to low and add in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

9. Once the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy, it’s time to add the cooked rotini pasta. Gently fold the pasta into the sauce, ensuring that every piece is coated in that delicious creamy goodness. 10. Taste the pasta and sauce mixture. This is the moment to adjust the seasoning! Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little more heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes. 11. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add a bit more of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. I usually find that a couple of tablespoons do the trick.

Serving the Dish

12. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. I like to let it sit for a minute or two to thicken up just a bit more. 13. Serve the creamy Rotel pasta in bowls or on plates. If you’re feeling fancy, you can garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. 14. Enjoy your creamy Rotel pasta! This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for impressing guests at a gathering. The combination of creamy cheese, zesty tomatoes, and optional sausage makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Storage and Reheating

15. If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of milk or cream to help bring back the creamy texture. 16. To reheat, you can use the microwave or a skillet over low heat. If using a skillet, add a little bit of water or milk to help loosen the sauce as it warms up. This

Conclusion:

In summary, this Creamy Rotel Pasta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The combination of creamy cheese, zesty tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side dish at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. For a fun twist, consider adding some cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to make it even more nutritious. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect blend. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Creamy Rotel Pasta a try and make it your own. Once you’ve whipped it up, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for this delightful dish together! Happy cooking! Print