Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

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There are few meals as comforting as a big bowl of creamy pasta, and this Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef is exactly the kind of weeknight magic you need. Rich with bold flavor, lightly spicy from the iconic Rotel tomatoes, and irresistibly creamy thanks to a blend of cheese and pasta sauce, this dish hits every note. And did we mention it all comes together in one skillet?

This recipe is the perfect fusion of Tex-Mex zest and homey pasta goodness. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something hearty and fast, this pasta delivers big time. With every bite, you get a warm hug of beefy, cheesy flavor layered with just enough heat to keep it interesting.

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

First, it’s fast. In under 30 minutes, you have a full meal that’s packed with protein and flavor. Second, it’s made with pantry staples like ground beef, pasta, cheese, and Rotel, which means no last-minute grocery runs. And third, it’s completely flexible—add beans, swap the pasta, or stir in extra veggies if you’re feeling creative.

It also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or a make-ahead lunch. Creamy, cheesy, a touch spicy, and satisfyingly filling—this recipe is proof that simple dinners can still be exciting.

What Kind of Rotel Should I Use?

Rotel tomatoes come in a few variations, and here’s the good news: they all work. The classic version with diced green chilies gives you just the right amount of heat and flavor. If you love a fiery kick, go for the Hot Rotel. Want something milder? There’s a mild version too. Whichever one you choose, it will add that signature zesty tomato base that makes this dish so addictive.

Ingredients for the Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

This dish is built on simple ingredients you probably already have at home, and that’s part of what makes it so great. Each ingredient plays a key role in giving the dish its bold flavor and creamy texture.

• Ground beef: The star of the show, ground beef brings heartiness and protein to the dish. Choose lean for less grease.
• Rotel tomatoes: These canned tomatoes with green chilies give the pasta its Tex-Mex flair and a slight kick.
• Cream cheese: Melts into the sauce, making everything velvety and rich.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharp, melty goodness that blends with the creamy sauce.
• Pasta (penne or rotini): A short pasta works best to catch all the creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Garlic powder: A simple way to add depth and flavor.
• Onion powder: Brings a mellow sweetness that rounds out the dish.
• Salt & pepper: Basic, but essential to season the whole dish just right.

How To Make the Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. If there’s excess grease, drain it off. Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Add Rotel and Cream Cheese

Pour in the Rotel tomatoes (do not drain), and add chunks of cream cheese directly into the skillet. Stir gently until the cheese melts and starts forming a sauce.

Step 4: Make it Cheesy

Add the shredded cheddar and stir until everything is smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for a couple minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat every piece in the creamy beef and tomato mixture. Cook together for another 2-3 minutes to let all the flavors meld.

Serving and Storing Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

This recipe makes enough to feed 4 to 6 hungry mouths, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day. When serving, scoop it hot into bowls and top with extra shredded cheese or chopped cilantro for a pop of freshness. It pairs well with a crisp side salad or even just a slice of warm garlic bread.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, a splash of milk or a little more shredded cheese will help bring the creaminess back to life. It also freezes well for up to a month—just make sure it’s fully cooled before freezing and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef?

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with buttery, crisp garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A light salad with a vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta perfectly.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli adds a healthy crunch and a bit of char to the plate.

Mexican Street Corn

This creamy, cheesy side dish complements the Tex-Mex flavors in the pasta beautifully.

Avocado Slices

Cool, creamy avocado cuts through the spice and gives a fresh finish.

Sautéed Zucchini

Quick and easy to prepare, zucchini adds a mild and slightly sweet element.

Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread

If you’re up for something bold, cornbread with a kick is a fun addition.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

Refreshing and crunchy, this salad cools things down and adds a bit of acidity.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If creamy, cheesy dinners are your thing, you’ll want to check out these other satisfying pasta dishes from Luna Meals:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni with bold garlic flavor and silky sauce.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli for a vegetarian option that still feels indulgent.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta if you love a little Southern spice.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for the ultimate comfort food fix.
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine when you’re craving something bold and buttery.

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 hot or mild Rotel? Try it with ground turkey instead? Maybe you added a veggie twist?

I love seeing how you all bring your own spin to these cozy weeknight favorites.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and more on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next favorite comfort food!

Conclusion

Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef is what happens when easy meets flavor-packed indulgence. It’s bold, cheesy, just a little spicy, and perfectly comforting. Whether you serve it on a busy weeknight or prep it ahead for leftovers, it’s one of those recipes that makes dinner feel like less of a chore and more of a reward.

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