Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef
When you’re in the mood for something bold, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy, this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is the answer. Packed with zesty flavor from tomatoes and green chilies, tender pasta, and rich ground beef, this dish is the ultimate comfort meal—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick, hearty, and family-approved.
Whether you’re a fan of Rotel taco pasta, Rotel hamburger helper, or even a creamy Rotel dip pasta, this version takes things to the next level with a saucy, satisfying twist that feels like a fiesta in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Rotel Pasta
If you’re always hunting for flavorful ground beef recipes, this one’s going to the top of your list. It’s:
- Creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Budget-friendly and uses pantry staples
- Totally customizable—swap the protein or pasta to match your taste
- A family favorite that works for kids and adults alike
From a one-pan stovetop meal to a simple crockpot Rotel pasta, this recipe can adapt to whatever’s easiest for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This creamy, cheesy beef Rotel pasta comes together with just a few ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz rotelle pasta (or any pasta you like)
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1 tsp taco seasoning (optional, for more taco flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil the rotelle pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft. Drain excess grease.
3. Add the Rotel
Stir in the full can of Rotel (do not drain), taco seasoning, and cook for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Make it Creamy
Add cream cheese, shredded cheese, and milk. Stir until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
5. Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired.
Variations to Try
- Rotel Sausage Pasta: Swap the ground beef for spicy sausage for an extra kick.
- Crockpot Rotel Pasta: Brown your meat, then toss everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 3–4 hours.
- Rotel Dip Pasta: Add Velveeta for a dip-inspired flavor explosion.
- Rotel Taco Pasta: Use taco seasoning and top with crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, and diced avocado.
Make It Ahead & Store It
This Rotel pasta fiesta stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days and reheats beautifully for lunch or another dinner. You can even freeze leftovers—just thaw and add a splash of milk when reheating to bring the sauce back to life.
Final Thoughts
From the bold flavor of Rotel to the richness of the creamy cheese sauce, this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is the ultimate mash-up of Tex-Mex flavor and classic comfort food. Whether you call it Rotel hamburger helper, Rotel taco pasta, or just your new favorite weeknight dinner, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
So if you’re craving something quick, cozy, and full of flavor, give this beef Rotel pasta a try. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s one of the best flavorful ground beef recipes around.
