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Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef for Cozy Nights

This Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights, combining bold flavors and hearty ingredients.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape or gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Beef
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Consider using ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option.
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil Vegetable oil or butter makes a suitable substitute.
For Flavoring
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can give you a more robust taste.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder You can also sauté fresh onions with the meat for a fresher kick.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to suit your personal taste.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust to suit your personal taste.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (Rotel) Add more chilies for an extra heat level if you like!
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese You can swap it for sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
  • 1 cup Beef Broth A vegetable or chicken broth can be used for different flavors.
For the Cheesy Finish
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Try using any melting cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby as an alternative.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a roaring boil over high heat. Add elbow macaroni and cook for 7–8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until browned, then drain any excess fat.
  3. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Add the canned Rotel, cream cheese, and beef broth. Stir well and cook for about 3–4 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
  5. Add the drained elbow macaroni back into the pot and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly coated.
  6. Serve the pasta in bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 25gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Consider pairing with a fresh garden salad or warm garlic bread for a complete meal.

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