Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef - Family Dinner Winner
This Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a quick, cozy dish that's perfect for family dinners.
Equipment
- - Large pot
- - Skillet
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz Barilla penne This pasta provides a great texture and holds the creamy sauce well.
For the Sauce
- 10 oz RO*TEL Original diced tomatoes Adds mild heat and flavor.
- 18 oz Ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) Offers a juicy, rich flavor.
- 1.25 cups Heavy cream Creates a velvety sauce.
- 0.75 cups Parmesan cheese Adds richness and depth.
- 1.5 tbsp Cajun seasoning Provides spice and flavor.
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste Deepens the tomato flavor.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing.
- 0.5 cup Onion Diced.
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
- Salt and pepper Essential for flavor adjustment.
- 0.25 tsp Red pepper flakes Optional for added heat.
For Garnish
- Parsley Adds a touch of freshness.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic.
- Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the onion: In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic for about 30 seconds.
- Cook the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned and no pink remains, about 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste: Mix in tomato paste and sauté for 1-2 minutes until caramelized.
- Add the diced tomatoes: Pour in the RO*TEL diced tomatoes with juice, sprinkle Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate the cream: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water, simmering for 1-2 minutes.
- Melt the cheese: Off heat, add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Combine with pasta: Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Dish out into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months.