pasta dish

This simple and budget-friendly pasta dish has become a family favorite, and it’s easy to see why. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting meal that feeds a family of five for around $8. The best part? It takes minimal effort and time to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of pasta (any type you prefer)
• 1/2 jar of queso (store-bought, from Walmart)
• 1 bag of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1 can of Rotel tomatoes (undrained)
• Side salad (optional, but a great way to round out the meal)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water, which helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly after draining.
2. Drain the pasta: Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it in a colander. Shake off any excess water, but don’t worry about getting every drop—some moisture helps blend the sauce with the pasta more smoothly.
3. Mix in the queso: Return the drained pasta to the pot while it’s still warm. Add half a jar of queso to the pasta. The warm pasta will help melt and incorporate the queso easily. Stir the mixture until the queso is evenly distributed, coating every piece of pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce.
4. Add the shredded cheese: Pour in most of the bag of shredded cheese, reserving a small amount for topping if desired. Stir the pasta mixture again until the cheese is melted and fully combined. The combination of queso and shredded cheese creates a rich, gooey sauce that clings to the pasta.
5. Incorporate the Rotel: Open the can of Rotel tomatoes and add it to the pasta mixture. There’s no need to drain the tomatoes; the liquid adds extra flavor and helps to thin out the sauce just enough. Stir everything together until the Rotel is evenly mixed throughout the pasta.
6. Serve: Once everything is well combined, it’s time to serve. Spoon generous portions of the pasta into bowls or onto plates. If you reserved some of the shredded cheese, sprinkle it on top of each serving for an extra cheesy finish.
7. Pair with a side salad: To round out the meal and add some freshness, serve the pasta alongside a simple side salad. A basic salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing complements the rich and cheesy pasta perfectly, providing a nice balance of flavors and textures.

Why This Recipe Works:

• Affordability: This meal is incredibly cost-effective, with ingredients that are readily available and budget-friendly. At around $8 for the whole meal, it’s a great option for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
• Simplicity: The recipe requires minimal prep work and only a few ingredients, making it a breeze to put together, even on the busiest of nights. With just pasta, cheese, and Rotel, you can create a flavorful dish that tastes like you put in much more effort than you did.
• Flavor: The combination of creamy queso, melted shredded cheese, and the zesty, slightly spicy flavor of Rotel tomatoes creates a deliciously comforting dish. The Rotel adds a hint of heat and acidity that balances out the richness of the cheese, making each bite satisfying and full of flavor.
• Versatility: This recipe is highly adaptable. You can use any type of pasta you have on hand, switch out the queso for a different type of cheese dip, or even add in some cooked ground beef or chicken for extra protein. It’s a great way to use up ingredients you already have in your pantry.

Tips for Success:

• Use your favorite queso: The type of queso you use can change the flavor profile of the dish. Whether you prefer a spicy queso, a white cheese dip, or a classic yellow queso, choose one that your family loves.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, especially after mixing with the sauce.
• Customize your side salad: To make the meal more complete, consider adding a variety of vegetables to your side salad. You can also include some croutons, cheese, or nuts for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts:

This simple yet satisfying pasta dish is a winner for busy families who want a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal. The creamy queso and shredded cheese combine with the bold flavor of Rotel tomatoes to create a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Pair it with a fresh side salad, and you have a complete meal that everyone at the table will love. Give this recipe a try, and it just might become a new favorite in your household!