Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef: The Ultimate Weeknight Comfort Food Recipe
Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is the kind of cozy, no-fuss dinner that saves busy weeknights. It’s rich, cheesy, a little spicy, and comes together in just 30 minutes using simple pantry staples. Tender pasta, savory beef, and a creamy Rotel-infused sauce make this a comfort-food favorite the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
-
8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you like)
For the Meat
-
1 lb ground beef (ground turkey or chicken works too)
-
2 tbsp olive oil (or canola oil)
For the Seasoning
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
1 tsp onion powder
-
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
-
1 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
For the Sauce
-
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
For the Cheese
-
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Monterey Jack also works well)
Instructions
-
Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside. -
Brown the beef
In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, until fully browned. Drain excess fat. -
Season the meat
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices. -
Make it creamy
Add Rotel, cream cheese, and beef broth. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. -
Combine
Return cooked pasta to the pot. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and evenly coated. -
Serve
Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
-
Mild or spicy: Use mild Rotel for less heat or hot Rotel for extra kick.
-
Extra veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or corn are great additions.
-
One-pot win: This dish is perfect for minimal cleanup—everything comes together in one pot.
-
Creamier sauce: Add a splash of milk or extra broth if the sauce thickens too much.