Description
This Creamy Rotel Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful casserole that combines tender pasta with spicy Rotel tomatoes, creamy sour cream, and a blend of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Ground beef or turkey adds protein and heartiness, making it a perfect satisfying meal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or elbow macaroni)
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente, then drain and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
- Cook Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook it thoroughly, stirring to break up the meat until it is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Tomatoes and Season: Stir in the undrained Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, along with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the sour cream, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese until well combined.
- Combine with Pasta: Mix the cheese and meat mixture with the cooked pasta thoroughly in the skillet or bowl to evenly coat the pasta.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and optionally garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve warm for a creamy, cheesy pasta experience.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Using penne or elbow macaroni works best as they hold the sauce well.
- Adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot Rotel diced tomatoes based on your spice preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for up to 3 days.
- If desired, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to the meat mixture for extra smoky flavor.
