When comfort food meets a touch of Tex-Mex heat, you get this incredibly satisfying Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef. It’s everything you want in a one-pot meal: rich, creamy, cheesy, and packed with just enough spice to keep things exciting. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this pasta delivers flavor with every bite.

Rotel tomatoes bring that familiar zing, pairing perfectly with seasoned ground beef and a velvety cheese sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s quick to prep, endlessly customizable, and bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best with Creamy Rotel Sauce?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Elbow macaroni is also a classic choice, but you can use any pasta you have on hand. Just be sure it’s cooked al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy in the sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

1 lb ground beef
8 oz pasta (elbow, penne, or rotini)
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (mild or hot)
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup cream cheese
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

How To Make the Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or deep pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Rotel

Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute. Then, pour in the Rotel tomatoes (including liquid) and stir well.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in sour cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar. Mix until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until the noodles are fully coated in the creamy beefy sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley or chopped green onions before serving. Best enjoyed warm!

Serving and Storing Creamy Rotel Pasta

Serve this dish immediately for the best texture and flavor. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp green salad. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Just prepare everything up to the point of adding the pasta. Reheat the sauce and combine with fresh pasta before serving.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative to beef.

What’s a good substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt makes a great swap if you’re looking for something lighter.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, stir in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It can be frozen, but the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating. For best results, store components separately.

How spicy is this recipe?

Using mild Rotel keeps it family-friendly. For more heat, go with the hot version or add diced jalapeños.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef, try these other creamy and comforting favorites:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it again when that cheesy craving hits.

And tell me how yours turned out! Did you go extra spicy? Try it with rotisserie chicken? Maybe sneak in some broccoli?

Your feedback, swaps, and questions help keep this recipe community growing. Let’s keep the dinner inspiration flowing. 🌟
You can also follow along with my daily kitchen adventures here: Nina Dishes on Pinterest

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food dinner—rich, cheesy, and spiced just right with zesty Rotel tomatoes. It’s a quick one-pot meal perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.