Description

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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Ingredients

Scale

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

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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.

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American