Best Easy Rotel Pasta Sauce Recipe
Pasta is a versatile dish loved by people of all ages. It can be prepared in various ways, with different ingredients and sauces. One such sauce that adds a delicious twist to pasta is Rotel pasta sauce. Made with a combination of diced tomatoes and green chilies, this sauce brings a spicy and tangy flavor to your pasta. Here is the best easy Rotel pasta sauce recipe that you can try at home:
Ingredients:
– 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 pound cooked pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red chili flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine the flavors.
3. Pour in the can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, along with the tomato sauce. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens.
5. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until it melts and incorporates evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. Remember that the Rotel tomatoes already have some spice, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
7. Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves, reserving a small amount for garnishing.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it gently in the sauce until it is well coated.
9. Serve hot, garnished with the remaining fresh basil leaves and some extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Now, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions about this delicious Rotel pasta sauce recipe:
Q1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned Rotel tomatoes?
A1. Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but the flavor might be slightly different. Adjust the spice level accordingly.
Q2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
A2. Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta or whatever you have on hand.
Q3. Can I make this sauce in advance?
A3. Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it before tossing it with the pasta.
Q4. Can I freeze the sauce?
A4. Yes, you can freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Q5. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
A5. Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. The sauce will be slightly lighter in texture and taste.
Q6. Can I add meat to this sauce?
A6. Absolutely! You can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken to make it a heartier dish.
Q7. Can I make this sauce vegan?
A7. Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.
Q8. Can I adjust the spice level?
A8. Yes, you can reduce or increase the amount of red chili flakes according to your preference.
Q9. Can I add other vegetables to this sauce?
A9. Certainly! You can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to add more texture and flavor to the sauce.
With this easy Rotel pasta sauce recipe, you can enjoy a delightful and flavorful pasta dish in no time. Experiment with different pasta shapes and additional ingredients to make it your own. Bon appétit!