Creamy Rotel Pasta Beef (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 ounces rotini pasta

→ Protein

02 - 1 pound ground beef

→ Canned Goods

03 - 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies

→ Seasoning

04 - 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
07 - Salt, to taste
08 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Dairy

09 - 1 cup heavy cream
10 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

→ Liquids

11 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
12 - 1 cup water

# Instructions:

01 - Heat a large pot of water over medium-high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
03 - Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef. Add the water, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring to combine.
04 - Pour the can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, including the liquid, into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
05 - Stir in the heavy cream and mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted.
06 - Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce.
07 - Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese or chopped herbs if desired.

# Notes:

01 - You may substitute any pasta type if rotini is unavailable. For extra heat, use Rotel with extra hot chilies or add jalapenos. Swap ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter meal.
02 - For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer before adding the cream and cheese.
03 - Enhance flavor by garnishing with fresh cilantro or green onions.