Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

There are few things as comforting and deeply satisfying as a hot, cheesy bowl of pasta. This Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s equal parts hearty and indulgent. Each forkful wraps tender rotini pasta in a rich, meaty marinara, blanketed with luscious, melty Velveeta cheese. It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul and wins over even the pickiest of eaters.

Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it as the centerpiece of a cozy family gathering, this pasta doesn’t disappoint. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and guaranteed to leave zero leftovers. Plus, the blend of Velveeta’s creamy texture and a robust Italian beef sauce creates a flavor fusion that feels like a restaurant-worthy plate made right at home.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this gooey masterpiece to life, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference:

• Large pot: For boiling your rotini evenly without clumping.
• Deep skillet or sauté pan: Needed for browning the beef and simmering the marinara sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching cookware.
• Baking dish (9×13 recommended): Where all the magic happens in the oven to melt and marry the flavors.
• Colander: To drain your pasta perfectly without losing any down the sink.
• Oven: Essential for that golden-bubbly cheese finish.

Having these on hand will not only speed up your prep but also ensure your final dish is cohesive, creamy, and cooked just right.

---

Ingredients for the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

• Rotini pasta – Its spirals trap the cheese and sauce in the most delicious way.
• Ground beef – Forms the hearty base of the Italian-style marinara.
• Yellow onion – Adds sweet depth and enhances the meat’s savoriness.
• Garlic cloves – Brings an aromatic warmth that defines Italian cooking.
• Crushed tomatoes – For that thick, tangy sauce foundation.
• Tomato paste – Concentrates the flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
• Italian seasoning – Balances the tomato acidity with herbaceous notes.
• Salt & pepper – Essential flavor enhancers.
• Velveeta cheese – The star element, giving that signature creamy melt.
• Shredded mozzarella – Adds that golden, stretchy cheese pull when baked.
• Fresh parsley (optional) – For a fresh pop and final garnish.

---

How To Make the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Step 1: Boil and Prep the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini until just al dente—about 8 minutes—then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

In a deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and softened.

Step 3: Simmer the Marinara Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and the sauce to thicken.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In the same skillet or a large mixing bowl, combine the drained rotini with the meat marinara sauce. Mix well so the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 5: Layer with Cheese and Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Dot chunks of Velveeta cheese throughout, then top evenly with shredded mozzarella. Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy the rich, creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.

---

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

This dish is best served piping hot, right out of the oven, with a side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad. For a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck, it pairs well with roasted vegetables or even a chilled glass of red wine.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of water to restore creaminess. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just be sure to thaw overnight before reheating.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes while browning the beef or stir in a bit of hot sauce to the marinara before baking.

Can I substitute Velveeta with another cheese?

Yes, but the texture will change. Cheddar or Monterey Jack can work, but Velveeta gives the creamiest result.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Is there a vegetarian version?

You can swap the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat crumbles and keep everything else the same.

Will gluten-free pasta work here?

Yes, just be cautious with the cooking time to avoid mushy noodles. Follow the package instructions for best results.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely. Sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini would mix in wonderfully without changing the overall texture.

---

Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara, try these other hearty pasta dishes next:

• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole – Comfort food with a creamy surprise inside.
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells – A veggie-packed twist on classic Italian.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce – Ultra rich and silky, perfect for garlic lovers.
• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce – Another beefy rotini hit, but with a creamy spin.
• One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta – A bold and sweet flavor mashup.

Explore even more recipes on my Pinterest board where I share daily cooking inspiration from Life With Olivia.

---

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use mozzarella only, or go all-in with Velveeta? Did you sneak in veggies?

I love seeing the creative ways you personalize these dishes. Feel free to share your tips or ask questions—let’s keep the kitchen conversations going!

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?