Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef
500kcal
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Feel free to use any pasta shape you love.
Protein
- 1 lb Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Oils and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil Can be swapped for canola oil if preferred.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can kick it up a notch.
- 1 tsp Onion Powder Replace with finely diced fresh onion for extra texture.
- 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste for perfect seasoning.
- 1 tsp Pepper Adjust to taste for perfect seasoning.
Canned Goods
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (Rotel) If unavailable, use plain diced tomatoes with spices.
Dairy
- 8 oz Cream Cheese Consider sour cream for a tangy twist.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or a dairy-free alternative.
Broth
- 1 cup Beef Broth Keep it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead.
Method
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Browning the Beef
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Adding Seasonings
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the meat.
Incorporating Tomatoes
- Add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel) to the skillet and mix well.
Melting the Cream Cheese
- Lower the heat and add the cream cheese, allowing it to melt and blend into the mixture.
Adding Broth
- Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring until everything is combined and creamy.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Fold in the cooked pasta, mixing until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
Serving
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture, allowing it to melt slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
Serving1gCalories500kcalCarbohydrates40gProtein25gFat30gSaturated Fat15gSodium800mgFiber2gSugar5g
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions: Ground beef can be replaced with lentils or a mix of veggies for a vegetarian option. Cream cheese can be swapped with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative. Optional Variations: For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or other spices like cayenne pepper. Add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Storage/Reheating Tips: 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 broth to keep it creamy.