Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef : Ultimate & Easy

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dinner that comes together fast, this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a must-try. It’s rich, cheesy, a little spicy, and made with pantry staples you probably already have. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want an easy meal that feels like comfort food, this creamy pasta dish checks all the boxes.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potluck dinners, or anytime you want to keep things simple, this recipe combines ground beef, rotini noodles, Rotel tomatoes, and cheese to create a hearty dish full of flavor. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes—making it one of the best good easy dinner recipes with ground beef you’ll ever make.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Rotini Pasta Recipe

There’s a lot to love about this easy pasta recipe:

• Quick and simple: Minimal prep and cooks in one pan
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults love the creamy texture and mild spice
• Versatile: Add-ins and substitutions are endless
• Inexpensive: Uses budget-friendly ingredients
• Hearty and filling: A full meal with protein, carbs, and flavor

It’s no wonder this dish has become a go-to in many households. From weeknight dinners to casual gatherings, creamy rotini pasta with beef is a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting dish. This recipe serves 4–6 generous portions.

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 cups (200g) uncooked rotini pasta
• 1 can (10 oz/283g) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (mild or hot)
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth or water
• 1½ cups (180g) shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, cubed
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream or milk
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
• 1 tsp paprika or taco seasoning (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley, sliced green onions, extra shredded cheese

Substitutions:

• Swap rotini with penne, shells, or macaroni
• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
• Substitute cheddar with pepper jack for more heat

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need much to pull off this one-pan wonder. Just grab:

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Medium saucepan (for boiling pasta)
• Colander or strainer
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor—that’s the magic of this recipe.

How to Make Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef – Step-by-Step Guide

This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast. Follow these steps for success:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s excess grease, drain it off.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

If your skillet is dry, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Rotel and Seasonings

Stir in the Rotel tomatoes (do not drain), paprika or taco seasoning (if using), and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Add Creamy Ingredients

Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Add the cooked rotini pasta to the sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until everything is creamy and well combined.

Step 7: Simmer and Serve

Let everything cook together on low heat for 2–3 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish as desired and serve hot.

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Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Pasta Dinner

To make this the ultimate weeknight meal, keep these tips in mind:

• Brown the beef thoroughly for maximum flavor
• Use full-fat cream cheese and real shredded cheese for extra creaminess
• Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce
• Drain excess grease to keep the dish from becoming oily
• Use Rotel tomatoes for that signature tangy-spicy kick

You can also make the sauce a bit spicier by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Variations to Try with This Ground Meat and Pasta Recipe

This recipe is easy to customize. Try these delicious twists:

• Spicy Southwest Version: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning
• Veggie Boost: Mix in spinach, zucchini, or chopped bell peppers
• Italian-Inspired: Use marinara sauce and mozzarella instead of Rotel and cheddar
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles
• Cheeseburger Style: Use ketchup, mustard, pickles, and cheddar for a fun twist

No matter how you change it up, it remains one of the most versatile ground beef supper recipes around.

Serving Suggestions for a Hearty Weeknight Meal

This dish is filling on its own but pairs well with simple sides:

• Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or Texas toast
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Cornbread muffins

For added flair, top with sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the best things about this pasta is how well it stores. Here’s how to handle leftovers:

Refrigeration:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce

Freezing:

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

This makes it great for meal prep or freezer meals during busy weeks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Rotini Noodle Recipes

Don’t let simple mistakes ruin this easy dish. Avoid the following:

• Overcooking the pasta: It will get mushy when reheated
• Not seasoning the beef: Salt and pepper are essential
• Too much grease: Always drain fat after browning the meat
• Overheating the cheese sauce: Keep it low and stir gently to prevent separation
• Using low-quality cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly

With a little attention, your ground beef and pasta dinner will be perfectly creamy and delicious every time.

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FAQ: Recipes with Ground Beef and Noodles

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, macaroni, shells, or egg noodles work well. Just cook until al dente.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely—just use gluten-free pasta and check that your Rotel and broth are certified gluten-free.

What if I don’t have Rotel tomatoes?
Use a can of diced tomatoes and add green chilies separately or use salsa as a substitute.

Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the full dish and refrigerate it. Reheat before serving and stir in a bit of milk or broth.

Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild heat from the Rotel, but you can use the mild version or reduce the amount for a gentler flavor.

Perfect for Summer Ground Beef Dinner Recipes

This recipe is a winner year-round, but it’s especially ideal for summer ground beef dinner recipes because:

• It doesn’t require the oven
• It’s quick and won’t heat up the kitchen
• It’s satisfying without being heavy
• The flavors pair well with fresh salads and cool beverages

It’s a great way to use up pantry staples and create something bold and flavorful without much effort.

More Ground Beef Supper Recipes and Dinner Ideas

Love this recipe? Here are more entrees ideas and dinner ideas red meat fans will enjoy:

• Ground Beef Taco Skillet
• Cheesy Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce
• Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Beef
• Creamy Hamburger Casserole
• Spaghetti with Garlic Butter Meatballs

These dishes are hearty, easy, and perfect for keeping dinner interesting all week long.

Call to Action: Try This Creamy Rotel Pasta Tonight!

Now that you’ve got the recipe for this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef, it’s time to make it your own! It’s fast, flavorful, family-approved, and sure to be a new go-to in your meal rotation.

If you try it, share a photo, tag us online, and don’t forget to subscribe for more ground meat and pasta recipes made for real life. Got a twist or variation? Leave a comment below—we’d love to hear how you made it!

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