When it comes to weeknight dinners that pack flavor, comfort, and ease into one dish, this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef delivers on all fronts. It’s everything you love about cheesy, creamy pasta with a bold Tex-Mex kick from the iconic can of Rotel. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and exactly what you want when you’re craving something cozy but quick to put together.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for meal prep options that reheat like a dream, this pasta will become a staple in your rotation. The magic is in the blend of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and tangy tomatoes with green chilies, all folded into perfectly cooked pasta. It’s simple, adaptable, and oh-so-irresistible.

What Kind of Rotel Should I Use?

The beauty of Rotel is its variety. If you like it mild, stick with the classic Rotel with diced tomatoes and green chilies. Want to add a kick? Opt for the hot version or fire-roasted for smokier flavor. You can even use the one with lime and cilantro for a fresher twist. Whichever you choose, make sure it complements your spice preference and balances the creamy sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Ground Beef: This is the hearty base of the dish. Choose lean ground beef to avoid excess grease or go with ground chuck for more flavor.

Penne Pasta: Its ridges hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly, but any short pasta will work if that’s what you have on hand.

Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies): The star ingredient that brings tang, spice, and depth.

Cream Cheese: This gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture. Full-fat or reduced-fat both work, but avoid fat-free for best results.

Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the sauce for extra cheesy goodness. Sharp cheddar adds the most flavor.

Garlic & Onion Powder: Quick and easy flavor boosters without needing to chop.

Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.

Optional Garnish – Fresh Basil or Parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color when serving.

How To Make the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Rotel

Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well. Add the can of Rotel (undrained) and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes so the flavors can meld.

Step 4: Melt in the Cream Cheese

Lower the heat to medium-low. Cube the cream cheese and add it to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and creates a silky sauce with the Rotel and beef.

Step 5: Fold in Cheddar Cheese

Once the cream cheese has melted, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar. Stir until it melts into the sauce completely, making it thick and creamy.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked penne to the skillet and gently stir to coat every bite in that luscious, cheesy sauce. Let it warm through for a couple more minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Pair it with garlic bread or a green salad to round out the meal.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

This creamy pasta dish is best served hot right off the stove. The sauce clings beautifully to the pasta when it’s fresh, making every bite indulgently cheesy and flavorful. It’s hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can also round it out with a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread.

If you’re hosting or meal prepping, this dish can be made in advance and gently reheated. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more irresistible.

To store, transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

That depends on the type of Rotel you use. The original version has a mild kick, but if you use the hot variety, expect a noticeable spice. You can always stir in a spoonful of sour cream to mellow the heat.

Can I make it with chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey works well if you’re looking for a lighter version. Just be sure to season generously since those proteins are milder in flavor.

What pasta shapes can I use besides penne?

Rotini, rigatoni, or shells all hold up beautifully in the sauce. You want something with grooves or shape to catch all that creamy goodness.

Is it okay to add vegetables?

Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, or corn are great additions. Add them in while the beef simmers to soften them up and boost nutrition.

Can I make this dish ahead for a party?

Definitely. You can prepare everything, store it in a baking dish, and reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until bubbly. A sprinkle of extra cheese on top doesn’t hurt either.

How can I make it extra creamy?

Stir in a splash of heavy cream or an extra ounce of cream cheese right before serving. It amps up the richness and smoothness of the sauce.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If you’re loving the bold and creamy flavor of this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef, here are more pasta dishes you should definitely check out next:

Red Pepper Rigatoni for another creamy option with bold flavor.
Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli brings a delicious veggie twist to your pasta night.
Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is perfect when you’re craving layers of cheese and sauce.
Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef offers even more beefy, buttery comfort.
One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta keeps cleanup minimal without skimping on flavor.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can make it again whenever the craving hits.

And I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you add any extra spice or veggies? Maybe swap the meat? Drop a comment and let’s chat about your version.

Want even more easy dinner ideas? Follow along on Pinterest at Life with Jam where I share my daily favorites!

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A rich, cheesy, and comforting pasta dinner with a spicy Tex-Mex kick thanks to Rotel. This easy, crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep alike.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary.

3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir in the can of Rotel (undrained) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add cubed cream cheese and stir until melted into a smooth sauce.

5. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and mix until well coated in the cheesy sauce.

7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.