Description: A comforting and incredibly easy pasta dish that combines ground beef, tender rotini pasta, and a luxuriously smooth Velveeta cheese sauce. This recipe is designed for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend is recommended for flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced is best for optimal flavor)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel, for a mild kick)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup (a key ingredient for the creamy base)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk or 2% milk works well; adjust for desired consistency)
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed (the star of the show, providing that signature melt)
- 12 oz rotini pasta (the spiral shape holds the sauce beautifully)
- Salt and pepper (to taste; be mindful of the salt content in Velveeta)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional, but adds a touch of freshness and color)
- Optional additions: 1/2 cup frozen peas, 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
Preparation:
This recipe is straightforward and relies on simple steps to deliver maximum flavor in minimal time. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt to the water seasons the pasta from the inside out and enhances its flavor. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). It’s important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to soften when combined with the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta, as the starch helps the sauce adhere better.
Step 2: Brown the Beef:
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the beef. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned all over. As the beef cooks, it will release some grease.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics:
Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess grease from the skillet. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. The garlic should become fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Make the Sauce:
Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and milk. Reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Be patient and stir regularly to prevent the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the skillet and burning.
Step 5: Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet with the beef and cheese sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be mindful of the salt content in Velveeta, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rotini Pasta is a winner for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: It comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal on the table fast.
- Comfort Food Classic: The combination of beef, pasta, and creamy cheese sauce is a comforting classic that appeals to all ages.
- Kid-Friendly: Most kids (and adults!) love pasta and cheese, making this a great option for picky eaters.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, spices, or meats.
- Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are relatively inexpensive and readily available, making this a great option for feeding a family on a budget.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping in the creamy sauce.
- A fresh green salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans add a healthy vegetable component to the meal.
Tips:
- To prevent the pasta from sticking together after draining, toss it with a little olive oil.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
- For a spicier dish, use a can of diced tomatoes with hot green chilies or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- To make this dish even richer, substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for the milk.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little milk if needed to thin the sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 6
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Sodium: ~800mg (varies depending on cheese and added salt)
Conclusion:
This Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rotini Pasta is a simple, satisfying, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Its comforting flavors and customizable nature make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy a delicious and heartwarming dinner with your family!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
- Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta? While Velveeta is the key ingredient for the signature creamy texture, you can experiment with other cheeses. Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses would work well. However, be aware that the texture will be slightly different, and you may need to adjust the amount of milk to achieve the desired consistency. Avoid using cheeses that don’t melt well, such as Parmesan or feta.
- Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. Some good options include frozen peas, chopped bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or cooked broccoli. Simply add the vegetables to the skillet along with the onion and garlic, or stir them in with the pasta and sauce.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and beef sauce separately, then combine them just before serving. Store the cooked pasta and sauce in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave, then add the cooked pasta and toss to combine. You may need to add a little milk to thin the sauce if it has thickened during storage.
- Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef. Ground turkey and chicken are leaner options, so you may need to add a little olive oil to the skillet to prevent them from sticking. Follow the same cooking instructions as for ground beef.
- How can I make this recipe spicier? To add some heat to this dish, you can use a can of diced tomatoes with hot green chilies, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or stir in a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce. You can also add a chopped jalapeño pepper to the skillet along with the onion and garlic.
