Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

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Looking for a weeknight dinner that hits all the marks—comforting, quick, and incredibly flavorful? This Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef recipe checks every box. With just a handful of ingredients and one skillet, you’ll have a cheesy, satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of recipe that makes it into your weekly rotation without even trying.

What makes this dish stand out is the zesty combination of Rotel tomatoes and a rich cream sauce, mingled with seasoned ground beef and pasta. It’s not just easy to prepare, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hungry adults, everyone goes back for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this dish effortless and mess-free, there are a few key tools you’ll want in your kitchen:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where all the magic happens. A good, deep skillet will allow you to brown the meat, simmer the sauce, and toss the pasta without spilling.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for breaking up ground beef and stirring everything evenly.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For getting the ratios just right—especially when it comes to the cream and cheese.
• Colander: To drain the pasta once it’s cooked.

Having these tools on hand will help streamline your prep and cleanup. Bonus: since it’s mostly a one-skillet dish, you’ll keep your sink from overflowing with dirty dishes.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in building the bold, creamy flavor that makes this pasta irresistible:

• Ground Beef: The savory base of the dish. It adds richness and protein.
• Rotel Tomatoes (Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies): These give the dish its signature kick and zesty tomato flavor.
• Pasta (Penne or Rotini recommended): Holds the sauce well and adds a hearty bite.
• Cream Cheese: Melts into the sauce to add creamy depth.
• Cheddar Cheese: Brings a sharp, cheesy richness.
• Heavy Cream: Softens the heat and makes the sauce velvety.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that enhance the flavor of the beef and sauce.
• Salt, Pepper, and Paprika: Simple seasonings that round out the flavor profile.
• Olive Oil or Butter: Used for sautéing.

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How To Make the Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Step 2: Add the Rotel and Spices

Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in the Rotel tomatoes, salt, pepper, and paprika. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Add the cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until everything melts and combines into a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add the drained pasta into the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for a few minutes. Garnish with parsley if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet, for the best texture and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread. You can also sprinkle a little extra cheddar or fresh parsley over the top for added presentation and flavor.

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creaminess.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne and rotini are great for holding the sauce, feel free to use shells, rigatoni, or even macaroni.

Is this dish spicy?

Rotel tomatoes do have a mild kick, but the cream and cheese balance it out nicely. For extra spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Rotel.

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work well.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead and store it separately. Cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

Does it freeze well?

It can be frozen, though the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. If freezing, cool completely, portion, and store in freezer-safe containers.

How can I lighten this recipe?

Use reduced-fat cream cheese, light cream, and lean ground meat to cut down on calories while still keeping it flavorful.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef, you’ll definitely enjoy these hearty and flavor-packed meals from my blog:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for a cheesy, indulgent weeknight dinner.
• One-Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta if you’re craving smoky heat.
• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for a savory, garlicky twist.
• One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Rotini for creamy comfort in a single pot.
• Creamy Spicy Buffalo Ranch Pasta if you love bold, tangy flavors.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with ground turkey or keep it classic with beef? Did you toss in any extras like mushrooms or spinach?

I love seeing how you all add your own twist. Questions? Drop them below and let’s cook together!

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