If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly flavorful, look no further than this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef: Ultimate & Easy Recipe. The rich blend of melted cream cheese and sour cream perfectly balances the spicy kick from Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, creating a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to every bite of pasta. Ground beef adds hearty substance, making this dish a satisfying meal that’s surprisingly simple to whip up any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a unique role in the flavor, texture, and color of this delicious pasta. From the tender pasta shapes that soak up every bit of sauce to the spices that elevate the dish, everything works together for a perfect balance.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells): Choose your favorite shape to capture the creamy sauce nicely.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the savory foundation and hearty protein for this dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic, adding a subtle richness.
- 1 small onion (diced): Brings sweetness and depth when softened.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Adds aromatic warmth and enhances flavor complexity.
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): Offers a zesty, slightly spicy punch that defines this recipe.
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese (cubed): Creates the luscious, creamy texture that makes this pasta irresistible.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and lightens the creaminess for balanced richness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce for cheesy goodness and depth.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder: Provides additional warmth and subtle spice layers.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Contributes smoky aroma and color.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and light herbaceous flavor.
How to Make Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef: Ultimate & Easy Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package directions, ensuring it’s perfectly al dente. Drain and set aside because having your pasta ready will make the next steps smooth and fuss-free.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and toss in the diced onion. Cook until it’s translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds to release its fragrant aroma.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks to avoid clumps. If there’s excess grease, drain it to keep the sauce from becoming oily.
Step 4: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
Stir in the canned Rotel with its juices, cream cheese cubes, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Keep stirring gently and continuously until the cheeses melt and everything comes together into a creamy, velvety sauce.
Step 5: Mix in the Pasta and Simmer
Add the cooked pasta directly to your skillet and toss well to coat every piece in that luscious sauce. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors mingle and the dish heats through evenly.
How to Serve Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef: Ultimate & Easy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a beautiful contrast in color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich creaminess perfectly. Feel free to add a little extra shredded cheddar on top if you’re feeling indulgent!
Side Dishes
This pasta is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans also provide a lovely balance in the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an entertaining twist, serve the pasta in mini ramekins topped with extra cheese and broil them briefly for a golden crust. Alternatively, scoop into small lettuce cups for a fun, low-carb option that’s visually appealing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making the next day just as delicious if not better.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too. Place cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick or clumpy during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a classic sharpness, you could experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little extra kick. Just ensure you use cheese that melts well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms to keep that meaty texture without the meat.
Can I prepare part of this recipe in advance?
You can cook the pasta and brown the beef ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and finish the sauce just before serving to keep everything fresh and creamy.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe has a mild to moderate spiciness from the Rotel tomatoes and chili powder. For more heat, add cayenne pepper or use the hot version of Rotel. For less, choose the mild variety.
What pasta shape works best?
Penne, rotini, or shell pasta are ideal because their ridges and hollows catch the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef: Ultimate & Easy Recipe a try—it’s pure comfort with a zest that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a quick and satisfying dinner, this dish delivers on taste and ease with a smile. Get ready to make it a weekly favorite!
Print
Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef: Ultimate & Easy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a rich, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar, enhanced by zesty Rotel tomatoes with green chilies and warming spices, it creates a deliciously creamy and mildly spicy meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
For the Sauce
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is thoroughly browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease from the pan if necessary.
- Add the Creamy Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese cubes, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is creamy and well blended.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Toss thoroughly to combine and ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Allow the skillet to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to heat everything through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh touch.
Notes
- For extra spice, use hot Rotel tomatoes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- This dish reheats well and can be made ahead for quick and easy weeknight meals.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for variation.
