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Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef: A Beginner’s Guide to a Quick and Hearty Comfort Meal

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Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a rich, flavorful dish that combines the comforting creaminess of a cheesy pasta with the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes and the heartiness of ground beef. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a family dinner.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 packet of taco seasoning

1 can of Rotel tomatoes (with green chilies)

8 oz cream cheese, cubed

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

8 oz pasta (any type you prefer, such as penne or rotini)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Add the taco seasoning to the beef, along with the can of Rotel tomatoes (undrained). Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to fully combine.
  7. Serve warm, and enjoy your creamy, comforting Rotel pasta!

Notes

  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free meal.
  • Add More Spice: For an extra kick, consider adding more chili powder or hot sauce to the dish.
  • Different Cheese: Swap the cheddar for a different cheese such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or a blend of Mexican cheeses.
  • Using Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you're looking for a leaner protein, ground turkey or chicken works just as well as beef in this recipe.
  • Add Beans: To make the dish more filling, add a can of black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed, for extra texture and protein.

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