Creamy Rotel Pasta with Sausage

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Creamy Rotel Pasta with Sausage – A Hearty, Cheesy One-Pot Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful comfort food dinner, this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Sausage is the ultimate solution. Made with tender rotini pasta, spicy Italian sausage, and a creamy cheese sauce infused with garlic, spices, and bold Rotel tomatoes with green chiles, this one-skillet recipe is rich, hearty, and ready in just 30 minutes.

Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when you just want something warm and cheesy, this pasta delivers on flavor and ease. It’s a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bold and creamy: The sauce is velvety and full of depth thanks to cream cheese, cheddar, and a splash of heavy cream.
  • Quick and easy: Ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
  • Customizable: Use your favorite short-cut pasta or swap the sausage for ground beef or turkey.
  • Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, slightly spicy flavor.

Ingredients

  • 10 oz rotini pasta (about 3½ cups dried) – or use penne, fusilli, or macaroni
  • 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing
  • 1 lb Italian sausage – spicy or mild, casings removed if needed
  • 1 cup diced onion – yellow or white
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced – fresh garlic adds depth
  • 1 tsp chili powder – adds a mild heat
  • 1 tsp garlic powder – enhances the savory flavor
  • 1 tsp salt – adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika – for smoky undertones
  • 2 cans Rotel tomatoes with green chiles (10 oz each), drained – brings bold tomato flavor and a touch of heat
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth – for added richness
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – deepens the umami profile
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream – creates a silky sauce
  • 6 oz cream cheese, cubed – softens and melts into the sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp or mild, your choice
  • Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish – adds color and freshness

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Aromatics

In a large 12-inch skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking up the sausage as it browns. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in the chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute to bloom the spices.
Add the drained Rotel tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and cubed cream cheese. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Pasta

Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Then fold in the cooked pasta, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. Pair with garlic toast or a side salad for a satisfying dinner.

Recipe Tips & Variations

  • Pasta: Any short-cut pasta works well – penne, fusilli, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni.
  • Protein Swap: Ground beef, ground chicken, or turkey can replace the sausage.
  • Spice Level: Use mild Rotel if you prefer less heat or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for more spice.
  • Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and low-fat cream cheese.

Storage and Reheating

  • Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition (Estimated Per Serving)

  • Calories: 590
  • Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 57g
  • Saturated Fat: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 859mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Calcium: 227mg
  • Iron: 2mg

This Creamy Rotel Pasta with Sausage is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, cheesy pasta dishes that come together quickly and satisfy completely. Save it for your next busy night — it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation!

 

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