If you are craving a comforting dish that blends zesty flavors with rich, velvety textures, this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe is going to be your new go-to favorite. Imagine tender penne pasta bathed in a luscious sauce made from tangy Rotel tomatoes and smooth cream cheese, perfectly complemented by savory ground beef and sharp cheddar. It’s a delightful balance of creamy, spicy, and hearty that comes together quickly and effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners that feel special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each brings an essential layer to the dish’s color, flavor, and texture. From the bold Rotel tomatoes to the creamy cheeses and seasoning spices, every component plays a vital role in making this recipe shine.
- 1 pound penne pasta: Choose penne for its perfect pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Adds a hearty, meaty base with just the right fat content for flavor without excess grease.
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz): Brings a zesty and slightly spicy kick that livens up the creamy sauce.
- 4 ounces cream cheese: Creates a rich, silky texture that blends the flavors together smoothly.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides a tangy, melty finish that adds depth and cheesiness to every bite.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic undertone without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Gives a subtle sweetness and savory background note.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Lends a mild smoky flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing every flavor and balancing the dish perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or cilantro (optional garnish): Offers a fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish elegantly.
How to Make Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cooking the pasta just right is key — you want it al dente so the noodles hold their shape and texture when mixed with the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside to prepare the flavorful beef base.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a generously sized skillet over medium-high heat, add your ground beef. Break it apart as it cooks, stirring occasionally until there’s no pink left and the beef is nicely browned. This step builds the dish’s meaty heart and ensures that savory richness shines through. If there’s excess fat, drain it carefully to keep the dish balanced.
Step 3: Season the Beef
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the cooked beef. Stir everything well and let the spices toast slightly for about two minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, creating a savory backbone for your creamy pasta sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Rotel Sauce
Pour the entire can of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies right into the skillet — don’t drain it because that flavorful liquid is crucial. Add the cream cheese in chunks and gently stir as it melts, transforming the mixture into a velvety, zesty sauce. This step is where the magic happens, making the dish irresistibly creamy with just the right amount of spice.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta into your skillet with the creamy beef and Rotel sauce. Carefully fold everything together so that each piece of pasta is evenly coated with the luscious sauce, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese
Sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture, then continue stirring gently until the cheese melts completely. This final cheesy touch enriches the texture and brings a beautifully sharp contrast that elevates the whole dish.
Step 7: Serve Hot with Fresh Garnish
Dish out the pasta while it’s warm and inviting. Top with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of vibrant color and fresh, herbaceous notes that lighten the creamy, rich pasta.
How to Serve Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or cilantro adds not only color but also a refreshing lift that balances the creaminess. If you love a bit extra zing, a squeeze of lime juice or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce, turning your meal into a cozy, satisfying feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this creamy Rotel pasta in individual mini-casserole dishes or skillet-ready bowls at your next dinner party. Garnish each with a sprinkle of extra cheese and a sprig of fresh herbs for an impressive, yet homey presentation everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the sauce creamy, store it separately from salad or bread sides and give it a gentle stir before reheating.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a great option for make-ahead meals. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta slowly on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick, stirring occasionally until heated through and creamy once more.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, other pasta shapes like rotini or rigatoni work wonderfully as well. Just keep cooking times in mind to get that perfect al dente texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for your favorite plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian twist without losing any flavor.
How spicy is the dish?
The spiciness is mild to moderate, thanks to the green chilies in the Rotel tomatoes. You can adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot Rotel varieties or adding extra spices if you love more kick.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Definitely! Using low-fat cream cheese will reduce the richness slightly but still maintain a creamy texture and great flavor, making it a lighter option.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
Sharp cheddar brings a wonderful tang, but feel free to use mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack if you want a little extra spice and meltiness.
Final Thoughts
Give this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe a try—it’s a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a staple for your home-cooked meals. Its perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and zesty chili flavors wrapped up with tender pasta makes every spoonful pure happiness. Invite your friends and family to share in the joy of this heartwarming recipe and watch it become your new favorite!
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Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy Rotel pasta with ground beef is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender penne pasta, spicy Rotel tomatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it features ground beef seasoned with garlic, onion, paprika, and black pepper, blended with cream cheese and sharp cheddar for a rich, cheesy finish. Garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro, this dish balances heat and creaminess for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound penne pasta
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Tomatoes
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz)
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, until it is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the pan if needed.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the cooked beef. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the spices meld.
- Create the Sauce: Pour in the entire can of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, undrained. Add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and forms a creamy sauce with the tomatoes and beef.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy beef and tomato sauce.
- Melt the Cheddar: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, ensuring a smooth, cheesy texture throughout.
- Serve: Dish out the creamy Rotel pasta and ground beef while hot. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh herbal note, if desired.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and improve the nutritional profile.
- Rotel tomatoes add a spicy kick; if you prefer less heat, choose mild diced tomatoes or adjust according to taste.
- For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature before adding.
- Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro enhances the flavor and presentation.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
