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Creamy Rotel Pasta

Creamy Rotel Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Rotel Pasta brings together creamy flavors and spicy goodness in every bite. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, this dish is sure to satisfy cravings and warm your soul. Make it tonight for a delightful culinary experience!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 613

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces Pasta Rotini, cavatappi, or penne work well.
  • 1/2 cup Reserved Pasta Water Helps to adjust the sauce consistency when needed.
  • 16 ounces Hot Italian Sausage Adds a robust flavor and spicy kick.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter For sautéing the onions and enhancing flavor.
  • 1/2 medium Sweet or Yellow Onion Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Helps thicken the sauce.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates that creamy texture.
  • 1 cup Half-and-Half Balances the richness of the heavy cream.
  • 1 can Rotel Tomatoes Adds a spicy tomato flavor.
  • 1 can Petite Diced Tomatoes Provides additional tomato flavor and texture.
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese Ensures a creamy sauce.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mexican Cheese For that cheesy goodness.
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun or Creole Seasoning Adds a burst of flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt To season the dish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper For a bit of heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Chopped Fresh Parsley For garnish.

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Whisk
  • Cutting Board
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Chef's Knife

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid. Drain well.
  2. While the pasta cooks, brown and crumble the sausage in a large nonstick skillet. When no pink is left, remove it with a slotted spoon and set it on a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. Wipe skillet clean and add butter. Place over medium-high heat. When butter is melted, add onion and cook for 3 minutes.
  4. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  5. Sprinkle flour into skillet and cook and stir for 1 minute.
  6. Whisk in heavy cream and half-and-half. Bring to a simmer and then add Rotel tomatoes and diced tomatoes. Simmer for a few minutes.
  7. Add cream cheese and Mexican cheese and stir until melted.
  8. Add Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  9. Return sausage to skillet. Add pasta and mix everything together. If the skillet isn't big enough, transfer everything to a bowl to mix together. If sauce is too thick or the pasta is too dry, add in the reserved pasta liquid.
  10. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a little bit of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
  • Freezing: You can freeze this pasta dish for up to three months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Spice it up: If you like extra heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when cooking!
  • Substitutions: Feel free to substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.