Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

If you’re looking for a quick and comforting weeknight dinner that’s full of flavor and family-approved, this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a must-try! This dish features hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce with just a hint of spice from Rotel tomatoes. It’s easy to whip up, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
Family Favorite – Creamy, cheesy, and a little spicy—what’s not to love?
Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Versatile – Easily customizable with veggies or different proteins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work great)
• Salt for pasta water

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 1 cup beef broth (or water + beef bouillon)
• 1½ cups heavy cream or milk
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
• Extra shredded cheese
• Crushed tortilla chips

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Onion & Garlic
Add the diced onion to the beef and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the Rotel tomatoes (with juices) and beef broth.
Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar.
Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 5: Combine & Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
Simmer for 2–3 more minutes to let everything come together.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Garnish & Enjoy
Serve hot with chopped parsley, green onions, or extra cheese on top.
Crushed tortilla chips add a fun crunch, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Rotel Pasta
Use Rotini or Shells – They hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Drain Meat If Greasy – This keeps the sauce smooth and flavorful.
Add Veggies – Bell peppers, spinach, or corn work great here.
Double the Cheese – For extra richness and gooeyness.
Spice It Up – Add crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.

Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread – A must for soaking up that creamy sauce.
Side Salad – A fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Steamed Broccoli – Adds nutrients and balance to your plate.
Corn on the Cob – For a hearty, satisfying dinner.
Lime Wedges – A little citrus squeeze can brighten the flavors.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Add a splash of milk and reheat over low heat.
Microwave: Warm in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great for a lighter version.
2. What if I don’t have Rotel?
   Use diced tomatoes and a pinch of crushed red pepper or jalapeño for heat.
3. Is this dish spicy?
   It’s mildly spicy—perfect for most palates. Adjust with milder or spicier Rotel as needed.
4. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Yes, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
5. What kind of cheese works best?
   Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend also works beautifully.

Final Thoughts
Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again. It’s hearty, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy—comfort food at its best. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your delicious pasta bowls.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 520 | Protein: 27g | Carbohydrates: 38g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 480mg

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