Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy Rotel Beef Pasta is the kind of hearty, satisfying meal that quickly becomes a regular in your dinner rotation. It combines tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, creamy melted cheese, and the bold flavor of Rotel tomatoes into one comforting dish. I first made this recipe on a busy evening when I needed something filling and flavorful without spending too much time in the kitchen, and it delivered exactly that.
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Cheesy Rotel Beef Pasta: A Comforting One-Pan Dinner Favorite
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Cheesy Rotel Beef Pasta is a comforting one-pot meal made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, Rotel tomatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s quick, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add Rotel tomatoes, beef broth, and pasta. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Notes
- Use spicy or mild Rotel based on preference.
- Add cooked bacon or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Best served immediately while creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground Beef
Ground beef provides the hearty base of this dish. It adds rich flavor and protein, making the pasta filling and satisfying. Lean ground beef works best to avoid excess grease.
Pasta
Short pasta shapes such as penne or rotini are ideal because they hold onto the creamy sauce well and ensure every bite is flavorful.
Rotel Tomatoes
Rotel tomatoes bring a signature blend of diced tomatoes and green chilies. They add moisture, mild heat, and bold flavor that sets this dish apart from standard cheesy pasta recipes.
Onion
Onion adds natural sweetness and depth, enhancing the savory flavor of the beef and sauce.
Garlic
Garlic provides aromatic richness and complements both the beef and cheese beautifully.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese creates a smooth, creamy base for the sauce and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese adds sharpness and classic cheesy flavor. As it melts, it gives the pasta its signature gooey texture.
Beef Broth
Beef broth adds moisture and savory depth, helping to bring the sauce together without making it too thick.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors and ensures the dish tastes balanced.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds subtle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
Directions
Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Pour in the Rotel tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.
Lower the heat and add the cream cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta and mix well to coat. Sprinkle in the cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: about 35 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover Cheesy Rotel Beef Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess if needed.
Variations and Customizations
Cheesy Rotel Beef Pasta is easy to adapt based on taste and dietary needs. For a spicier version, use hot Rotel tomatoes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. I have also tried mixing in a small amount of smoked paprika, which adds subtle depth and warmth.
Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef for a lighter option. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or spinach to increase nutrition and texture.
If you prefer a baked version, transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and lightly golden. This variation works especially well for potlucks or make-ahead meals.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 560 |
| Protein (g) | 32 |
| Carbs (g) | 42 |
| Fat (g) | 30 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 14 |
| Fiber (g) | 3 |
| Sugar (g) | 6 |
| Sodium (mg) | 920 |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
Drain excess grease from the beef to avoid heaviness.
Do not overcook the pasta to maintain texture.
Adjust spice level with mild or hot Rotel tomatoes.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and is ideal for meal prep.
Is this dish very spicy?
It is mildly spicy, but heat can be adjusted easily.
Can I freeze Cheesy Rotel Beef Pasta?
Yes, freeze in portions and thaw overnight before reheating.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells works best.
Can I make it without cream cheese?
Yes, but the sauce will be less creamy.
What can I serve with this dish?
A simple salad or garlic bread pairs very well.
Conclusion
Cheesy Rotel Beef Pasta is a comforting, flavorful meal that brings together creamy cheese, savory beef, and bold tomatoes in one satisfying dish. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or make-ahead meals. Once you try it, this recipe is sure to earn a permanent place in your dinner rotation.
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