If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends comfort and a little spicy kick, let me introduce you to the Creamy Sausage Rotel Pasta Recipe. This hearty meal brings together tender spaghetti noodles, savory pork sausage, and the zing of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies all wrapped in a luxuriously creamy sauce. It’s a total crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent yet comes together in a flash, making it a fantastic weeknight favorite or a cozy dinner for friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Creamy Sausage Rotel Pasta Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building those layers of flavor, creaminess, and just the right amount of spice that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 8 oz thin spaghetti: The perfect pasta base that soaks up the creamy sauce without overpowering it.
- 1 (16-oz) package pork sausage: Adds rich, savory depth and just the right amount of meaty texture.
- 1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained): Provides a mild heat and vibrant color that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese (cubed): This is the secret to the irresistibly creamy texture that ties everything together.
- 2 Tbsp butter: Enhances richness while helping to blend garlic and sausage flavors seamlessly.
- 2 tsp minced garlic: For a fragrant punch that elevates the savory profile.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness, making the sauce luscious without being heavy.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Boosts creaminess with a luxurious mouthfeel.
- ¼ tsp onion powder: A subtle layer of savory flavor that rounds out the sauce.
- 1½ tsp dried parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green color for garnish.
- â…“ cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty finish that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors to life.
How to Make Creamy Sausage Rotel Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by cooking your thin spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Make sure to drain it well to avoid watering down the sauce later. This simple step lays the foundation, giving you tender noodles ready to be generously coated with sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
While your pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high. Add the pork sausage and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up as you go. Once cooked through, drain the excess fat to keep the dish rich but not greasy.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base
Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant. This combination creates a flavorful base that balances the spiced sausage.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Rotel Sauce
Next, stir in the undrained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, cream cheese cubes, sour cream, heavy cream, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Turn the heat down to low and gently cook while stirring until everything melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Remember, no boiling here—just warmth until perfect harmony. After removing from heat, fold in the grated parmesan cheese for an extra layer of cheesiness.
Step 5: Toss Pasta with Sauce
Finally, add your cooked spaghetti into the skillet and toss it all together until every strand is coated in that dreamy sauce. Sprinkle dried parsley over the top for a touch of color and freshness before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Sausage Rotel Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese really elevate this dish visually and flavor-wise. If you like a little more kick, some crushed red pepper flakes on top can add a subtle heat that complements the Rotel chilies perfectly.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus. A warm, crusty bread is also a fantastic side to sop up any leftover sauce because no bite should go to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual small baking dishes and broil just until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. You can also bundle portions in lettuce cups for a lighter, low-carb option that adds a fresh crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Sausage Rotel Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a perfect candidate for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers as well, though the texture of the pasta might change slightly. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to bring back the sauce’s silky texture. Microwaving works too but stir occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While thin spaghetti works great because it holds the sauce well, you can swap in penne, rotini, or even fettuccine depending on your preference. Just adjust the cooking time based on your pasta choice.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the pork sausage with a plant-based sausage or even sautéed mushrooms to maintain that hearty texture. The creamy Rotel sauce will still pack plenty of flavor.
How spicy is the Creamy Sausage Rotel Pasta Recipe?
It has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to the green chilies in the Rotel tomatoes. If you prefer less spice, try using a mild Rotel version or drain some of the liquid before adding.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Sure thing! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove before tossing with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Cream cheese gives the sauce its signature creaminess. You can try using mascarpone or a combination of cream and a bit of cream thickener, but keep in mind the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to whip up this dreamy Creamy Sausage Rotel Pasta Recipe, I promise it will quickly become one of your go-to comfort dishes. It’s effortless, packed with flavor, and hits that perfect balance of creamy and spicy that everyone will love. Grab these few simple ingredients and treat yourself to a bowl of pure deliciousness tonight!
Print
Creamy Sausage Rotel Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Sausage Rotel Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish combining savory pork sausage, zesty Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a rich creamy sauce made with cream cheese, sour cream, and parmesan. Tossed with thin spaghetti, this quick and easy meal packs a delicious punch perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz thin spaghetti
Sauce and Sausage
- 1 (16-oz) package pork sausage
- 1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, cubed
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- 1½ tsp dried parsley
- â…“ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce Base: While pasta cooks, begin preparing the sauce by starting with the sausage.
- Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook pork sausage thoroughly until no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Sauté Garlic and Add Sauce Ingredients: Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the undrained Rotel tomatoes, cubed cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and stir continuously just until the sauce becomes smooth and blended – do not allow it to boil. Remove from heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese for added richness.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce and Garnish: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce in the skillet and toss well to coat all noodles evenly. Sprinkle dried parsley on top for a fresh herby finish. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Do not overcook the sauce or let it boil as cream cheese can separate.
- Use thin spaghetti or linguine for best texture with this creamy sauce.
- Adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot Rotel based on your spice preference.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
