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Creamy Rotel Dip Pasta

Creamy Rotel Dip Pasta

Creamy Rotel Dip Pasta is a warm, cheesy, and vibrant pasta dish combining tender pasta with a rich cheese sauce and the spicy kick of Rotel tomatoes. This easy-to-make comfort food bursts with flavor and is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a creamy texture and bold taste that pleases all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or any small pasta

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes, including juice

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the water and set the pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the cream cheese and stir until smooth and creamy. Slowly whisk in the milk to create a silky sauce base. Then, add shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, stirring continuously until the cheese melts fully.
  3. Add the Rotel Tomatoes: Mix in the Rotel tomatoes (including the juice) into the cheese sauce. The tomatoes provide a tangy, vibrant twist that balances the richness of the cheese.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cooked pasta into the sauce and gently stir until every piece is coated in the creamy, spicy mixture. Cook for a couple more minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Serve Warm: Serve your Creamy Rotel Dip Pasta piping hot for the best gooey texture and flavor experience.

Notes

  • Use Sharp Cheddar: Enhances the flavor intensity of the sauce and provides a better melt.
  • Don’t Overheat: Cook on medium to medium-low heat to prevent cheese from separating or becoming grainy.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta water to thin the sauce if it gets too thick for easy stirring.
  • Fresh Pasta Option: Use fresh pasta for a more delicate texture and quicker cooking time.
  • Timing Matters: Combine pasta with sauce immediately while both are warm for the best coating and taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Rotel pasta, creamy pasta recipe, cheesy pasta, comfort food, easy pasta dish, Rotel cheese pasta, party pasta, quick dinner