Dinner

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef for Cozy Weeknight Dinners Recipe

ByLily Cross December 7, 2025December 7, 2025

Introduction

This creamy Rotel pasta with ground beef is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for cozy weeknight dinners. It combines tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich, cheesy tomato sauce with a hint of spice. Quick to prepare, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with creamy penne pasta layered with small pieces of browned ground meat scattered evenly throughout. The pasta is coated in a smooth, thick white sauce that glistens under the light, with flecks of black pepper visible. Bright red cherry tomato pieces add a pop of color, and small green herb leaves are sprinkled on top, adding a fresh accent. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, enhancing the dish's warm tones. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni (any pasta shape works)
1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
2 tbsp olive oil (canola oil as an alternative)
1 tsp garlic powder (fresh minced garlic can be used)
1 tsp onion powder (or finely diced fresh onion)
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1 tsp pepper (adjust to taste)
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel; or plain diced tomatoes with spices)
8 oz cream cheese (sour cream can add a tangy twist)
1 cup beef broth (vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Monterey Jack or dairy-free alternatives work)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
Step 3: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to allow the spices to blend with the beef.
Step 4: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, softened cream cheese, and beef broth. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Return the cooked macaroni to the pot. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts and the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, use fresh minced garlic and diced onion instead of powders.
Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to enhance the spice level.
Use sour cream instead of cream cheese for a tangier sauce.
For a vegetarian twist, replace ground beef with cooked lentils and use vegetable broth.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce becomes too thick.

How to Serve

The dish is a close-up view of creamy penne pasta served in a white bowl with a thin black rim. The bottom and main visible layer consists of light yellow penne pasta coated smoothly in a white creamy sauce. Scattered evenly among the pasta are small pieces of browned ground meat, adding texture and a deeper brown color. Tiny red bits of tomato and small green herbs are sprinkled on top, providing bright spots of color and freshness. The dish appears rich with a slightly glossy look from the sauce, sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.