Description
Creamy Rotel Pasta is a delectable and comforting dish that combines tender pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce made from zesty Rotel tomatoes. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, delivering an explosion of flavor in every bite. With its creamy texture and hint of spice, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cans (10 oz each) Rotel tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked chicken or ground beef (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Boil the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2. Sauté the Protein: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cooked chicken or ground beef, sauté until browned, then remove from pan.
- 3. Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add Rotel tomatoes (juice included) and gradually stir in heavy cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- 4. Add Cheese & Season: Stir in cheddar cheese until melted; season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 5. Combine Everything: Toss the cooked pasta and sautéed protein into the skillet, mixing well until coated with sauce.
- 6. Serve & Enjoy: Plate the creamy pasta and top with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg