Looking for a comforting dinner that’s rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavor? This Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef is the ultimate one-pot wonder that brings together tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes—all wrapped up in a velvety cheese sauce. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a big warm hug in a bowl, perfect for weeknights when you want something satisfying and effortless.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this hearty pasta delivers on every level. It’s quick to make, full of robust flavors, and budget-friendly. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable depending on what you have in the fridge. Think of it as your go-to for those days when you need dinner on the table fast, but you don’t want to sacrifice taste.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

Bold & creamy: The combination of Rotel and cream cheese creates a perfectly balanced sauce that’s both zesty and smooth.
Simple ingredients: No fancy pantry items here. Just basics that deliver big-time flavor.
One-pan meal: Less cleanup, more enjoyment.
Kid-friendly: The mild spice and cheesy richness make it a hit with all ages.
Ready in under 30 minutes: Ideal for busy weeknights when time is short and appetites are big.

Ingredients for the Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

Penne pasta – The perfect shape to hold onto the sauce and soak up all the flavor.
Ground beef – Adds a savory, meaty richness that makes the dish hearty and filling.
Rotel tomatoes with green chilies – Brings just the right amount of tangy heat and depth to the sauce.
Cream cheese – Creates a smooth, creamy base that mellows the spice and ties everything together.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the sauce for added cheesy goodness.
Onion – Sautéed for sweetness and depth in flavor.
Garlic – Brings a savory aroma and boost of flavor.
Salt & black pepper – Simple seasonings to bring out all the best in each ingredient.
Olive oil – For sautéing and enhancing richness.

How To Make the Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

Step 3: Add the Rotel

Pour in the can of Rotel tomatoes (with their juice) and stir to combine with the beef mixture. Let it simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Add cream cheese and stir until melted into the beef mixture. Then mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss until fully coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve It Hot

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Serving and Storing Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef

This dish is a true crowd-pleaser and can easily feed 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for families or small gatherings. Serve it piping hot straight from the skillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to bring back the creamy texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for scooping up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and parmesan balance out the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a healthy, slightly crispy side that complements the creamy main dish.

Sautéed Green Beans

Simple, fresh, and lightly seasoned — they add a nice bite and color to the plate.

Cornbread Muffins

A Southern twist that pairs surprisingly well with the spicy creaminess of the pasta.

Pickled Jalapeños

If you like a little extra heat, these are a fun topping option.

Chopped Salad

A mix of cucumber, tomato, red onion, and vinaigrette brings brightness and crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different pasta shape for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works great, you can also use rotini, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni. Just make sure to cook it al dente.

Q2: Is this dish very spicy?
Not overly. The Rotel tomatoes with green chilies add a mild kick, but the cream cheese balances it out. For less heat, you can use mild Rotel or plain diced tomatoes.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture.

Q4: What protein can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well as alternatives.

Q5: Can I double this recipe?
Definitely! Just be sure to use a large enough skillet or pot to hold everything comfortably.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra cheese or spice it up with jalapeños? Did you try a different type of pasta?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, one bowl at a time.

Conclusion

Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef is a guaranteed win when you want a fast, comforting, and flavor-packed dinner. With simple ingredients and bold taste, it’s the perfect balance of ease and indulgence. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a cozy weekend, this dish is always a hit. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular on your dinner rotation.