Description

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

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

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.

Notes

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

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 20
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4–6
Calories: 480
Sugar: 5g
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 26g

Keywords: Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef