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Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

A comforting and savory pasta dish featuring ground beef, Rotel tomatoes, and creamy cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Substitute lean turkey for a lighter option.
  • 12 ounces dry pasta (elbow, shells, or penne) Shells catch the sauce beautifully.
  • 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles Choose mild or hot depending on taste.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Use shallot for a sweeter note.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth Vegetable broth can work for a meatless option.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Blend with Monterey Jack for creamier melt.
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Regular paprika can be used as well.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnishes and Extras
  • Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish Optional.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Cooking the Beef
  1. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it browns, cooking until it releases its juices and just begins to crisp around the edges (about 5 to 7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano.
Sautéing Vegetables
  1. Push the beef to one side of the pan and add the chopped onion to the cleared space. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes, then stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
Building the Sauce
  1. Pour in the Rotel and the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes.
  2. Lower heat to medium-low and add cream cheese in chunks, stirring until it melts into a velvety sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
  1. Stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and silky. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  2. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until every piece is coated in the creamy sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of cilantro or green onions to garnish.
Serving
  1. Serve hot, with extra cheese on the side for those who desire a more indulgent experience.

Notes

For a heartier version, add a cup of baby spinach or frozen peas toward the end. For a smokier flavor, add hot sauce or chipotle powder.