Description

This Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is the kind of dinner that checks all the boxes—quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful. Made with spicy Rotel tomatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and heat. Ideal for those looking for quick dinner ideas, easy recipes for weeknights, or satisfying food ideas the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or an indulgent evening treat, this is one of those easy dinner ideas that belongs in your regular rotation.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb ground beef

1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)

4 oz cream cheese

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)

Instructions

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

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add the Rotel tomatoes (with juices) and simmer for 2–3 minutes.

5. Lower the heat, then stir in cream cheese and heavy cream. Cook until melted and smooth.

6. Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

7. Add the cooked pasta and stir until fully coated in the creamy sauce.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cream cheese.

To spice it up further, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 640
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: easy dinner, creamy pasta, Rotel recipes, quick pasta recipe, one-pot meals