Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef – Easy Dinner Recipe
Cheesy, creamy, and full of flavor—this Rotel pasta with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food. With tender pasta, seasoned beef, and a rich Rotel cheese sauce, it’s a quick and easy dinner recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals.
Equipment
- Large skillet or pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz)
- 1 cup cream or 8 oz cream cheese
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar (or cheese blend)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: bell peppers, jalapeños, taco seasoning
- Pro Tip: Drain excess grease from the beef to keep the sauce rich—not oily.
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Add Rotel Tomatoes: Stir in the can of Rotel, mixing well.
- Add Cream & Cheese: Lower heat. Stir in cream (or cream cheese) and shredded cheddar until smooth.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Toss cooked pasta into the skillet. Mix until evenly coated.
- Adjust Consistency: Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
- Taste & Season: Adjust salt, pepper, and spice level.
- Serve: Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs.
- Important: Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent curdling.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.
- Cook pasta just until al dente—it will absorb sauce.
- Balance spice level by choosing mild or spicy Rotel.
- Stir constantly when melting cheese for creamy texture.
- Customize with chicken, extra veggies, or taco seasoning for variety.