Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

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Nothing says weeknight comfort like a hearty plate of Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara. This dish is a soul-warming fusion of creamy cheese sauce and savory marinara, woven together by tender rotini pasta. The bold flavor of seasoned Italian ground beef pairs effortlessly with the melty richness of Velveeta, creating a baked pasta experience that’s both nostalgic and incredibly satisfying.

Perfect for busy evenings or when you’re craving something indulgent, this one-skillet meal doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. The gooey cheese layer baked to perfection over the savory sauce makes it irresistible—especially when served straight from the oven. Whether it’s for family dinner, potluck night, or a cozy date night in, this recipe promises to become a fast favorite.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara?

Rotini is ideal here because its corkscrew shape traps every bit of cheesy marinara goodness in its spirals. The sauce clings to the ridges, ensuring flavorful bites from start to finish. You could substitute penne or fusilli in a pinch, but rotini really brings the magic when it comes to sauce-grabbing power.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Rotini Pasta – The sturdy spiral shape captures the creamy sauce and chunky beef for ultimate flavor.

Ground Italian Beef – Seasoned and browned, it forms the heart of the marinara base, offering richness and protein.

Velveeta Cheese – Its ultra-creamy texture makes for a smooth, melty topping and blends beautifully with the beef.

Marinara Sauce – Brings acidity and sweetness to balance the cheese and meat. Use your favorite jarred or homemade sauce.

Mozzarella Cheese – For an extra layer of gooey, stretchy goodness when baked.

Parsley Flakes (optional) – A sprinkle on top adds color and a hint of herbaceous flavor.

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How To Make the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Step 1: Cook the Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the ground Italian beef over medium heat until fully browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Add the Marinara

Pour the marinara sauce over the browned beef. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the beef marinara mixture.

Step 5: Melt in the Velveeta

Cut Velveeta into small cubes and stir them into the pasta mixture until melted and evenly combined.

Step 6: Top with Mozzarella

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. You can add parsley flakes at this point if desired.

Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly

Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for about 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.

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How to Serve and Store Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

This pasta is best served hot, right from the oven, when the cheese is still bubbling and the sauce is silky. Garnish with a touch of chopped parsley and serve alongside garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For reheating, microwave individual portions or place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta?

Yes! If you prefer a more natural cheese, try using sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack, though they won’t be quite as creamy.

Is it okay to use ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative to beef and still pair well with the marinara and cheese.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and beef mixture in advance, assemble it in the skillet, and refrigerate. Bake it when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to freeze leftovers?

Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Sure! Substitute the beef with a meatless ground or sautéed mushrooms for a savory vegetarian twist.

How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, hot Italian sausage, or a splash of hot sauce to the beef while browning for extra kick.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara, try these other weeknight pasta dishes to spice up your menu:

• Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce – A twist on the classic with silky cheese and pasta.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta – Buttery chicken paired with rich Alfredo.
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta – A satisfying garlic-forward spaghetti dinner.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce – A rich, cheesy rotini recipe with hearty chicken.
• One Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta – Bold flavors in one comforting skillet.

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Let me know in the comments how your pasta turned out! Did you try a different cheese or add some extra heat? I love hearing your kitchen stories and seeing how you make these meals your own.

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