Here’s a more detailed version of the recipe for a simple, cheesy pasta dish that’s a hit with your family and budget-friendly at about $8 from Walmart. It makes enough to feed a family of five, and pairs perfectly with a side salad.
Cheesy Queso Rotel Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (16 oz) of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni works well)
- 1/2 jar of queso dip (about 8 oz, medium or mild, depending on your preference)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your choice)
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta well and return it to the pot.
- Prepare the Cheesy Sauce:
- While the pasta is still hot, pour in half a jar of queso (about 8 oz) directly into the pot.
- Add most of the bag of shredded cheese (reserve a small handful to sprinkle on top, if desired).
- Stir in the entire can of Rotel, making sure not to drain the liquid—this helps flavor the sauce and keeps the pasta from drying out.
- Mix and Heat:
- Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
- You can place the pot over low heat for a couple of minutes to make sure everything blends smoothly, but avoid letting it get too hot or the sauce may break.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste the pasta and add salt and pepper as needed.
- For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle the reserved shredded cheese over the top before serving.
- Side Salad (optional):
- Pair with a simple side salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a complete meal.
Notes:
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding cooked ground beef, grilled chicken, or even sautéed veggies like bell peppers or onions for a heartier dish.
- You can adjust the heat level by choosing mild, medium, or hot Rotel, or even add a splash of hot sauce if you like it spicier.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, easy, and comforting!