Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delicious dish:
- 1 large block Velveeta cheese, cubed (about 16 oz)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- Optional: 1 cup reserved pasta water
Directions
Follow these simple steps to make your Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta:
- Step 1: Cook the pasta by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package directions, usually 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add the cubed Velveeta, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup. Cook over medium heat, stirring until everything melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Step 4: Stir in the undrained Rotel tomatoes with chilies and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Step 5: Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Step 6: Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or additional cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of cheese instead of Velveeta?
While Velveeta provides a creamy consistency, you can substitute with cheddar or a cheese blend. However, the texture may vary slightly.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, skip the beef and add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a nutritious alternative.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, and combine before reheating to serve.
4. What should I serve with Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta?
Complement this dish with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal.
5. How long does leftovers last in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or milk if necessary.
Conclusion
Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta is a timeless recipe that marries convenience with delectable flavor. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. Now that you’ve learned how to make this delightful dish, it’s time to whip it up and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness that awaits you!