Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

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This Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is the ultimate weeknight comfort food. Rich, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, it combines the spicy tang of Rotel tomatoes with a luscious creamy sauce and hearty ground beef. Tossed together with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is the kind of cozy, satisfying meal the whole family will ask for again and again.

Whether you’re short on time or just craving something indulgent, this pasta checks all the boxes. It comes together in under 30 minutes and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or prep. It’s bold, cheesy, and perfect for both picky eaters and flavor seekers. One bite and you’ll be hooked!

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

This dish is a total crowd-pleaser. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packs just the right amount of spice thanks to the Rotel. Plus, it only takes a handful of ingredients and one pot — less cleanup, more eating. The creamy texture paired with the savory beef and tender pasta is pure comfort food magic. And best of all, it’s easily customizable depending on your preferences or what you have on hand.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Dish?

Penne pasta is ideal for this recipe because its ridges hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly, delivering flavor in every bite. But feel free to swap in rotini, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni. The goal is to use a short pasta that can trap all that cheesy, beefy goodness.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Each ingredient in this pasta dish brings something essential to the flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Penne Pasta – A sturdy pasta that holds the sauce well and adds a satisfying bite.
• Ground Beef – Adds savory depth and protein, making this a complete, filling meal.
• Rotel Tomatoes (with Green Chilies) – The star ingredient that gives the dish a spicy, tangy flavor punch.
• Cream Cheese – Melts into the sauce to make it creamy, tangy, and rich.
• Heavy Cream – Helps create that luxuriously smooth sauce.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds gooey, melty cheesiness and sharp flavor.
• Garlic (minced) – Provides a savory aromatic foundation.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional) – A touch of fresh herbs adds color and a bit of brightness.

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How To Make the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Follow these simple steps to create this indulgent and comforting dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Rotel

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the Rotel tomatoes (undrained) and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese and heavy cream, stirring until everything is melted and smooth. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat with the creamy beef and tomato sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

This creamy pasta is best enjoyed fresh and piping hot. It makes a wonderful main course for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. This recipe generously serves 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for families or meal prepping.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy consistency. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, though the texture may slightly change upon thawing.

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What to Serve With Creamy Rotel Pasta?

Pairing this hearty pasta with the right sides can round out your meal beautifully. Here are a few tasty options:

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside — garlic bread is the classic companion for any creamy pasta dish. It’s perfect for mopping up extra sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pasta.

Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious, vibrant green element to your plate and pairs well with creamy sauces.

Roasted Vegetables

Try a tray of oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. The roasted flavor adds a smoky, sweet note to the meal.

Baked Mozzarella Sticks

Want to go extra indulgent? Serve some crispy mozzarella sticks on the side for a cheesy overload everyone will love.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, and add a splash of cream to refresh the sauce.

Is there a way to make it less spicy?

Absolutely. Use a mild version of Rotel or swap it out for plain diced tomatoes if you want to avoid the heat entirely. You can also reduce the amount of cheddar or choose a milder cheese to tone it down.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based ground meat all work well in this recipe. They each offer slightly different flavors but still pair beautifully with the creamy Rotel sauce.

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Yes! While penne is ideal, other short pastas like rigatoni, fusilli, or macaroni will also work great. The important part is choosing a pasta shape that holds the sauce well. (See our notes in Part 1)

How do I keep the sauce from clumping?

Make sure to stir the cream cheese and cheddar gradually over low heat. Don’t let the sauce boil. Patience and gentle heat are key to a silky smooth sauce. Check out our step-by-step instructions in Part 2 for more guidance.

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