Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a bold, flavorful, and easy one-pot dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This comforting dish features tender pasta smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce with seasoned ground beef and zesty Rotel tomatoes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings just the right amount of spice and richness to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish is quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is full of comforting, crave-worthy flavor. It combines the savory taste of ground beef with the creamy texture of melted cheese and a subtle kick from Rotel. It’s budget-friendly, versatile, and sure to become a family favorite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow)
• Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• Cream cheese
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Heavy cream or milk
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper
• Paprika or taco seasoning (optional for extra flavor)

directions

this recipe

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add Rotel (do not drain), cream cheese, and heavy cream. Stir until cream cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
6. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
7. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika or taco seasoning to taste.
8. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld, then serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
• Add bell peppers, corn, or spinach for extra nutrients
• Substitute cream cheese with Velveeta for a more traditional Tex-Mex flavor
• Make it spicy with hot Rotel or add crushed red pepper flakes
• Top with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals or warm on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended as the cream-based sauce may separate.

FAQs

What is Rotel?

Rotel is a brand of canned diced tomatoes blended with green chilies. It adds a mild to medium heat and bright tomato flavor to dishes.

Can I use regular diced tomatoes instead?

Yes, but you’ll lose the zesty flavor from the green chilies. Add some chopped jalapeños or chili powder for extra kick.

What type of pasta is best?

Short pastas like penne, rotini, or elbows work best for catching the sauce and mixing evenly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, add the pasta right before serving or undercook it slightly to avoid mushiness when reheating.

Is there a non-dairy version?

You can use plant-based cream cheese, dairy-free milk, and vegan cheese alternatives to make it dairy-free.

Can I add beans?

Yes, black beans or kidney beans make great additions and boost the protein content.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes, or add a bit more cheese or a spoonful of cream cheese.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a large skillet or Dutch oven and double all ingredients proportionally.

What cheese works best besides cheddar?

Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend are all excellent choices.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the type of Rotel you use. Use mild Rotel or mix with regular tomatoes to reduce heat.

Conclusion

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a quick, flavorful, and hearty meal that delivers big taste with simple ingredients. It’s cheesy, slightly spicy, and completely satisfying—a go-to dinner recipe you’ll make again and again. Perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish brings comfort food to a whole new level.

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