Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

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When comfort food cravings hit, this Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef is the answer. It combines tender penne pasta with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and the iconic kick of Rotel tomatoes. This dish is weeknight dinner gold—easy to prepare, family-friendly, and packed with flavor. You’ll love how the creamy, slightly spicy sauce coats every bite of pasta.

Perfect for busy days when you need something fast and filling, this one-pot wonder saves time and dishes. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a hungry crowd, it’s a reliable go-to that delivers big on taste with just a handful of pantry staples. Let’s dive into what makes this pasta so irresistibly good.

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What Kind of Rotel Should I Use?

You can use original Rotel for that perfect balance of spice and tomato flavor, but if you like it hotter, opt for the “Hot” version. Mild works great for those feeding younger kids or if you’re simply not a fan of too much heat. Whatever variety you pick, make sure it’s the canned diced tomatoes with green chilies—they’re the signature flavor base for this creamy sauce.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

Penne Pasta: Holds the creamy sauce perfectly and has a satisfying bite. Rotini or shells could also work well.

Ground Beef: The base protein of this dish. Opt for lean ground beef for less grease, but feel free to use ground turkey or chicken.

Rotel Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Adds a zesty, spiced tomato flavor that makes this pasta unique.

Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the pasta to bring richness and creamy texture. Sharp cheddar is best, but you can blend with Monterey Jack for a smoother taste.

Cream Cheese: Balances the spice with velvety richness. It’s what makes the sauce so creamy and thick.

Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to season the meat and enhance the overall flavor.

Optional Parsley or Cilantro: For a fresh finish that adds a touch of color and brightness to the final dish.

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How To Make the Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once no longer pink, drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Seasoning

Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir the spices into the meat and let it cook for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 4: Mix in Rotel and Cream Cheese

Add the entire can of Rotel (do not drain) and the cream cheese directly into the beef mixture. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Fold in Cooked Pasta and Cheese

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted through.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. This dish is delicious straight from the pan and even better the next day.

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

This pasta is best served hot and fresh, right after the cheese has melted into the creamy Rotel sauce. Pair it with a crisp side salad or buttery garlic bread to round out the meal. It also makes a great potluck dish thanks to its crowd-pleasing flavor and easy transport.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best?

Penne is ideal because it holds the sauce inside and out, but you can substitute with rotini, rigatoni, or even elbows.

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes! Use mild Rotel and cut back on the paprika if you want a more kid-friendly version.

Is there a way to lighten this recipe up?

Try using reduced-fat cream cheese and lean ground turkey or chicken. You can also cut the cheese portion slightly without sacrificing too much flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the entire dish, refrigerate it, and reheat just before serving. It holds up well and reheats beautifully.

What if I don’t have Rotel?

You can use canned diced tomatoes and add a few tablespoons of chopped green chilies to mimic the flavor of Rotel.

Does it freeze well?

Yes! Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing in individual containers. Reheat with a touch of liquid to restore its creamy consistency.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this creamy Rotel pasta, don’t stop here! Try out these other pasta favorites that bring bold flavor and comforting textures:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a rich, cheesy twist on chicken alfredo.
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta if you’re craving more beefy pasta goodness.
• One Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Chicken Sausage Mac when you want a spicy, smoky kick.
• Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce for another one-pan dinner loaded with nostalgia.
• One Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta if you’re looking for a zesty twist with ranch flavor.

Explore these easy meals that make dinner both satisfying and simple!

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And drop a comment to let me know how it went! Did you go for mild or hot Rotel? Add extra cheese? Your feedback helps others and gives me ideas for more delicious twists.

Let’s keep cooking together—your kitchen adventures are always welcome here!

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