Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

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When it comes to comfort food that’s both quick and delicious, this Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef is a total winner. It blends spicy Rotel tomatoes, creamy cheese, and savory ground beef into a hearty, satisfying pasta dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need something cozy without a ton of effort.

What makes this dish even more appealing is how simple it is to prepare. It uses everyday ingredients you likely already have, yet the flavors come together like something you’d order at a restaurant. The creamy texture combined with the bold zing of Rotel is just irresistible. It’s family-friendly, but with a little heat that keeps it interesting.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

This pasta is incredibly easy to customize, whether you want to make it spicier, sneak in some veggies, or switch up the protein. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights. It’s also a hit at potlucks or when feeding a crowd. One skillet, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor. Plus, kids love it just as much as adults.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best?

You can really use any pasta shape you like, but short pastas such as penne, rotini, or shells are ideal. They hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully and make every bite flavorful. If you want to switch it up, elbow macaroni or even rigatoni are great alternatives. Just avoid long noodles like spaghetti or linguine since they don’t carry the sauce as well.

Ingredients for the Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

To make the Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef, you’ll need a few pantry staples and fridge essentials. Each ingredient contributes to the creamy, spicy, and savory flavor that makes this dish so irresistible.

• Ground beef
• Rotel tomatoes
• Pasta
• Cream cheese
• Cheddar cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Olive oil
• Chicken broth

The ground beef brings a rich, meaty base. Rotel tomatoes add that signature spicy tomato kick. Choose your favorite pasta shape, preferably short pasta to hold the sauce. Cream cheese is key to the creamy texture, and cheddar cheese gives it that gooey, cheesy pull. Garlic and onion powder layer in flavor quickly, while salt and pepper balance everything. A little olive oil helps to cook the beef, and chicken broth deepens the flavor of the sauce.

How To Make the Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Add Seasoning

Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat evenly.

Step 3: Combine the Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the Rotel tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a light simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta directly to the skillet. Stir, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover. Let it cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Once pasta is cooked, stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Sprinkle in the cheddar cheese and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Spoon into bowls while hot and creamy. Garnish with extra cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

This dish is best enjoyed right after it’s cooked when the sauce is silky and the cheese is perfectly melted. It feeds about 4 to 6 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Serve it straight from the skillet for a cozy, fuss-free meal.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. Avoid freezing, as the cream-based sauce can separate.

What to Serve With Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef?

Garlic Bread

Buttery garlic bread is a perfect companion. It helps soak up the creamy sauce and adds a satisfying crunch.

Green Salad

A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Try oven-roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini for a nutritious and colorful side.

Cornbread

If you’re in the mood for a Southern twist, sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with the spicy notes of Rotel.

Pickled Jalapeños

For those who like extra heat, a side of pickled jalapeños can elevate the spice.

Sautéed Spinach

Quick-cooked spinach with a little garlic is an easy and healthy side.

Fruit Salad

A refreshing fruit salad brings a touch of sweetness and cool contrast to the bold pasta flavors.

Sweet Tea or Lemonade

A glass of iced sweet tea or lemonade rounds out the meal, especially during warm evenings.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If you loved this Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef, here are a few more bold and flavorful pasta recipes to spice up your dinner rotation:

• Try the creamy and cheesy twist of the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini.
• Explore Cajun flair with the popular Cajun Potato Soup that’s just as satisfying.
• Add more veggies to your table with Creamy Chicken and Broccoli.
• For another hearty one-skillet dish, check out the One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta.
• Enjoy a fun fusion twist with Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use spicy Rotel or go for mild? Add bell peppers or stick to the basics?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Feel free to ask questions too. Let’s make weeknight dinners easier together.

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Conclusion

Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef is more than just a quick meal – it’s an easy way to bring joy to the table. With simple ingredients and a one-pan method, it’s bound to become a regular in your dinner routine. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers big on taste without demanding too much time.

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