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Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef: A Must-Try Recipe!

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef: A Must-Try Recipe!

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a quick, comforting, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender pasta is tossed with seasoned ground beef in a rich, cheesy sauce made with Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, and cheddar. It’s creamy, slightly spicy, and guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

(Scale as needed: 1x | 2x | 3x)

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add Seasonings

Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the flavors.

4. Make the Sauce

Add Rotel tomatoes, softened cream cheese, and beef broth. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Combine and Melt Cheese

Return the cooked pasta to the pot. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and evenly coated.

6. Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper.

  • Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

  • Vegetarian Version: Substitute plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth.

  • Extra Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or milk if needed.