Go Back
Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef plated with melted cheese and fresh herbs
Joe Rooney

Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef: Quick and Delicious

This creamy Rotel pasta with ground beef is a quick, flavorful American dinner idea combining tender elbow macaroni and savory beef in a rich, cheesy sauce with a hint of spicy tomatoes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
  • One 8-ounce block of 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 for garnish optional

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. 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. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to blend flavors.
  4. Add Rotel, softened cream cheese, and beef broth. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Return pasta to the pot. Add shredded cheddar and stir until melted and everything is well coated.
  6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add a can of diced jalapeƱos or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mixture. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian version.