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Close-up of a delicious Rotel Pasta Bake, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

BEST Rotel Pasta Bake ULTIMATE

This Rotel Pasta Bake recipe elevates a simple casserole to a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish. By using softened cream cheese, high-quality cheddar, and balancing the acidity of the Rotel tomatoes, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 2025
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pasta rotini, penne, or shells
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion optional
  • 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper optional
  • Jalapenos, for extra heat optional

Equipment

  • large pot
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • colander

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  3. While pasta is cooking, brown ground beef or sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. If using, add chopped onion and bell pepper during the last few minutes of cooking.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned meat (or sausage), Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
  5. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  9. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For optimal results, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded. Soften the cream cheese before adding it to the mixture for a smoother sauce. Italian sausage adds a more flavorful depth than ground beef. This casserole can be prepared in advance and reheated. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.