Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef – A Cozy Weeknight Dinner

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When it comes to weeknight dinners that are quick, comforting, and delicious, few recipes deliver like Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef. This one-pot wonder combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce with the zesty kick of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies.

Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings, picky eaters, or anytime you crave a hearty, cozy meal.

This dish brings together the richness of cheese, the warmth of Rotel’s mild spice, and the savory depth of seasoned ground beef, making it a family favorite that’s sure to become a staple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ready in under 30 minutes
  • Comfort food at its finest
  • Family-friendly and kid-approved
  • One-pot or minimal cleanup
  • Flexible and customizable

The creamy sauce clings perfectly to each piece of pasta, while the ground beef adds hearty protein, making this dish satisfying and filling. Plus, the mild kick from Rotel gives just enough flavor to keep it exciting without overwhelming.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow)
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta.
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the ground beef.
    In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Add garlic and seasoning.
    Stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Incorporate Rotel.
    Add the drained Rotel tomatoes with green chilies and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Make it creamy.
    Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, followed by shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and a smooth sauce forms.
  6. Combine with pasta.
    Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
  7. Garnish and serve.
    Sprinkle with chopped cilantro (optional) and serve immediately for a cozy, cheesy dinner.

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

A cozy weeknight dinner featuring tender pasta, ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy Rotel sauce, ready in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies drained
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups cheddar cheese shredded

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Medium pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions and set aside.
  2. Sauté onion in olive oil, then cook ground beef until browned.
  3. Add garlic and seasonings, cook until fragrant.
  4. Stir in drained Rotel and simmer briefly.
  5. Add heavy cream and cheddar, stirring until creamy.
  6. Combine pasta with sauce, garnish, and serve immediately.

Notes

Drain Rotel to avoid a watery sauce and use freshly shredded cheese for best texture.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Rotel Pasta

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for a smooth sauce.
  • Drain Rotel to prevent excess liquid from thinning the sauce.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning before serving—Rotel adds some saltiness already.
  • Add a little pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Variations to Try

Add More Vegetables

  • Bell peppers, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition.

Make It Spicier

  • Include jalapeños or extra green chilies from the Rotel.

Make It Cheesy

  • Mix in Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or mozzarella for a melty twist.

Substitute Protein

  • Ground turkey, sausage, or shredded chicken can replace beef.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy, hearty pasta pairs perfectly with:

  • Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
  • Simple green salad
  • Steamed or roasted vegetables
  • A crisp lemonade or iced tea

It’s a complete, satisfying meal that’s easy to make for families or a weeknight crowd.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but slightly undercook pasta so it doesn’t get mushy when reheated.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta; the sauce remains the same.

Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes, but heavy cream may separate slightly when thawed. Reheat gently with a splash of cream.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish is all about balancing flavors. The creamy cheese sauce softens the heat from Rotel, while the savory ground beef adds richness. Minimal prep and fast cooking make it ideal for weeknight dinners, yet it’s flavorful enough to feel indulgent.

Every bite is comforting, cheesy, and satisfying—a perfect way to warm up after a busy day.

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