If you’re craving a quick dinner that’s as comforting as it is flavor-packed, look no further than Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef. This vibrant dish is bubbling over with cheesy goodness, bold southwestern flavors, and plenty of satisfying protein in every forkful. Even better, it comes together in just over a half hour, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Each creamy bite pops with the subtle heat of Rotel tomatoes and the savory warmth of seasoned ground beef—this is the kind of recipe your family will request again and again!

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Your kitchen probably already holds most of the simple pantry staples in this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef recipe, but don’t underestimate their power! Each ingredient adds a little magic, lending creaminess, bold Tex-Mex flavor, or irresistible melty cheese for a meal that always satisfies.

Ground beef (1 lb): Brings hearty, savory depth and classic comfort to every serving.
Elbow macaroni pasta (12 oz): These bite-sized curves soak up all the creamy, cheesy sauce.
Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 10 oz): The perfect shortcut for a tangy, zesty kick and bright color.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The secret to an ultra-silky, rich sauce that clings to every noodle.
Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts right in and amps up the flavor—sharp cheddar is especially delicious.
Diced onion (1/2 cup): Adds a touch of sweetness and aromatic foundation to the sauce.
Minced garlic (2 cloves): Fresh garlic gives everything a lip-smacking boost—use more if you love extra flavor.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Sauté the onions and garlic for extra depth and a subtle fruity richness.
Salt (1 tsp): Makes every bite pop with flavor—taste before serving in case you want more.
Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Balances the cheese and beef with a little gentle spice.
Chili powder (1 tsp): Infuses the dish with classic Tex-Mex warmth and color.
Water or beef broth (2 cups): Cooks the pasta right in the sauce for extra flavor and fewer dishes.
Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish): Sprinkle on top for a burst of freshness and color.

How to Make Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start this comforting meal by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and let them sauté for two to three minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This infuses the oil with aromatic flavor, setting the stage for the rest of your Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Season

Add the ground beef directly into the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and chili powder. While you stir and brown the beef, the seasonings will coat every morsel, making every bite deliciously flavorful. Cook until the beef is fully browned and any excess moisture is mostly evaporated.

Step 3: Simmer with Rotel and Build the Sauce

Pour in the can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (don’t drain the liquid—that flavor is gold!), then stir in the two cups of water or beef broth. This creates a flavorful bath that will infuse your pasta with even more Tex-Mex goodness. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to get ready for the next step.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Cream Cheese

Toss the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the skillet, then dollop in the softened cream cheese. Stir gently to combine—you’ll see the sauce start to become lush and creamy right before your eyes. Cover the skillet, turn the heat to low, and let everything simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the noodles cook evenly in all that flavor.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheddar and Finish

Once the pasta is tender and coated in a creamy, thick sauce, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and pull everything together in a cheesy embrace. If your family loves extra cheese, feel free to add a little more. Serve the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef warm, topped with a handful of chopped cilantro if you’re craving a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Garnishes

To make each bowl of Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef truly shine, finish with some vibrant garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro brightens up the flavors, while extra cheddar cheese or sliced green onions add color, meltiness, and a hint of crunch. If you love a little heat, a few jalapeño slices or a dusting of chili flakes make each serving feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This dish is a star all on its own, but you can easily round out your meal with a crisp green salad dressed in lime vinaigrette or a batch of warm, buttery garlic bread for dunking. For a Tex-Mex twist, some seasoned corn or roasted veggies on the side provide a fresh, sweet counterpoint to the cheesy, savory pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef into a crowd-pleasing feast by serving it in a big family-style dish topped with all the fixings, or spoon it into individual bowls with a fun toppings bar on the side. Need a game day snack? Spoon it into mini cups for a delicious, portable treat, or use as a hearty dip with tortilla chips.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef (lucky you!), simply transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making lunch the next day even more satisfying! Eat within 3 or 4 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, this pasta can absolutely be frozen. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best creamy consistency. The sauce may thicken slightly after freezing, but a splash of milk or broth brings it right back.

Reheating

To reheat, add your Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef to a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally, and add a bit of milk, water, or broth if it looks too thick. You can also microwave individual servings, pausing to stir every minute for even heating. Top with extra cheese or a touch of fresh cilantro just before serving to revive its fresh-from-the-skillet magic.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells will soak up the creamy sauce just as well. Just keep an eye on their cooking time, as some shapes may take a little longer or shorter to cook through.

What’s the best way to make this recipe spicier?

If you crave extra heat, go wild with diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or even a bit of cayenne pepper mixed in with the chili powder. Using hot Rotel instead of the original variety is another easy way to amp up the spice factor.

Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. You might want to add a pinch more salt, and a little extra olive oil, since turkey is slightly milder and less fatty than beef, but the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef will still be a hit!

Will this recipe work with gluten-free pasta?

It sure will! Just choose your favorite gluten-free elbow macaroni (or similar shaped pasta) and keep an eye on the cooking time—gluten-free pastas sometimes absorb more liquid and may cook a bit faster. The creamy sauce sticks to them beautifully.

How can I make Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef vegetarian?

Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative, or try adding canned black beans or lentils instead. You’ll still get all the rich, cheesy, zesty flavor you love, with a satisfying meatless twist.

Final Thoughts

Once you taste how easy and delicious Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is, it may just become your new go-to comfort meal. Whether you serve it bubbling hot for a weeknight family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing party dish, it’s bound to please everyone at the table. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of this delicious Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef. A flavorful Tex-Mex inspired dish that combines tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and creamy cheeses for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef:

1 lb

Elbow Macaroni Pasta:

12 oz

Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies:

1 can (10 oz)

Cream Cheese:

8 oz, softened

Shredded Cheddar Cheese:

2 cups

Diced Onion:

1/2 cup

Minced Garlic:

2 cloves

Olive Oil:

1 tbsp

Salt:

1 tsp

Black Pepper:

1/2 tsp

Chili Powder:

1 tsp

Water or Beef Broth:

2 cups

Chopped Fresh Cilantro (optional, for garnish):

As needed

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Instructions

Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and chili powder, and cook until browned.
Add Tomatoes and Liquid: Stir in Rotel tomatoes and water or beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add uncooked elbow macaroni and cream cheese. Stir gently to combine.
Cook Pasta: Cover and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes until pasta is tender and creamy, stirring occasionally.
Add Cheddar Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.