There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta, especially when it’s packed with flavor and heartiness. Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into a cozy family favorite. It combines the bold flavors of Rotel tomatoes with the savory richness of seasoned beef and a velvety cheese sauce that clings to every noodle.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family after a long day or prepping something simple and satisfying for yourself, this dish checks every box. It comes together quickly, makes use of pantry staples, and delivers that crave-worthy creamy texture with a hint of spice. The best part? You only need one pot and a few steps to get dinner on the table.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

This pasta is quick enough for a weeknight and flavorful enough to feel like a treat. The tangy Rotel tomatoes add a Southwestern kick while the creamy cheese sauce mellows out the spice just right. Ground beef brings richness and protein, turning this pasta into a full, satisfying meal. It’s also highly customizable — add corn, black beans, or even jalapeños to make it your own.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Rotel Pasta?

Short pasta varieties like penne, rigatoni, or shells work beautifully for this dish. They hold onto the creamy sauce and bits of ground beef in every bite. You could also use elbow macaroni or rotini for that perfect spoonable experience. Just make sure to cook your pasta to al dente, so it doesn’t get too soft when mixed into the sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

This recipe uses everyday ingredients that blend into something totally crave-worthy. Each component brings flavor, texture, or richness to the table. Here’s what you need:

Ground beef — The hearty base of the dish that adds savory flavor and protein.

Rotel tomatoes — These canned tomatoes with green chilies bring tangy zest and a touch of heat.

Pasta — Use any short-cut pasta like penne or shells that can soak up the sauce.

Cream cheese — For that irresistibly smooth and tangy creaminess.

Cheddar cheese — Brings sharpness and meltiness to the sauce.

Milk or heavy cream — Helps to loosen the sauce to the perfect texture.

Garlic powder and onion powder — Add depth of flavor without chopping anything extra.

Salt and black pepper — Enhances all the flavors together.

Olive oil or butter — For cooking the beef and helping meld the ingredients.

How To Make the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add the Rotel Tomatoes

Stir in the Rotel tomatoes with their juice. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes so the beef soaks up all the flavor.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and fully combined. Pour in the milk or cream and sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the beef mixture simmers, cook your pasta in a separate pot according to package directions. Drain and reserve some pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta into the creamy beef mixture. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until everything is coated and melty. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop into bowls and serve hot. Optional toppings like chopped green onions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes are delicious extras.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

This creamy pasta is a complete meal in a bowl, but it also pairs well with a side salad or crusty garlic bread. It’s rich and filling, making it a great option for family dinners or meal prepping. One batch will feed about 4 to 6 people, depending on how hungry everyone is.

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce back up. If you want to freeze it, place portions in airtight containers, though the texture may be a bit less creamy once thawed.

What to Serve With Creamy Rotel Pasta?

Garlic Bread

A warm, crusty slice of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every bit of that cheesy sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the dish.

Roasted Broccoli

The slightly charred flavor of roasted broccoli complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

Cornbread Muffins

Sweet and soft cornbread muffins bring a Southern comfort twist to the table.

Pickled Jalapeños

If you love a spicy kick, a few pickled jalapeños on top add extra zing.

Steamed Green Beans

A classic side that keeps things light and family-friendly.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Easy, healthy, and full of flavor, this side rounds out the meal with some greens.

Want More Creamy Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting dinners:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe when you want a childhood favorite with a grown-up twist.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a quick and easy one-pan dinner.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta with a garlicky white sauce that’s seriously satisfying.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta if you’re craving something smoky and cheesy.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a Philly-style flavor explosion.

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Let me know in the comments if you added any twists to yours! Did you toss in some corn? Try it with turkey instead of beef? I’d love to hear how you make it your own.

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