Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

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This Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is your answer to busy weeknights when you crave something hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. The spiral pasta holds onto the savory tomato and green chili flavors of Rotel, while the ground beef adds richness and protein to keep everyone full and happy. Add a generous sprinkle of melty cheese, and you’ve got a family favorite that’s both simple and crave-worthy.

With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, this dish delivers big on taste with little effort. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or entertaining guests with comfort food vibes, this pasta brings bold flavor to the table without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and totally customizable depending on what you have in your fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

• Easy to Make – This is a one-pan or one-pot meal that cuts down on clean-up.
• Bold Flavors – The kick from Rotel tomatoes balances perfectly with the creamy cheese and savory beef.
• Customizable – Swap the protein, add veggies, or choose your favorite pasta shape.
• Family Approved – It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
• Quick Weeknight Dinner – From prep to plate in under 30 minutes.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Rotel Pasta?

Rotini is a great choice for this dish because its spirals hold onto the sauce beautifully, giving you a flavorful bite every time. But feel free to use penne, shells, or even elbow macaroni if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to choose a shape that hugs the sauce well for maximum flavor in every forkful.

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Ingredients for the Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

To make this flavorful dish, you’ll only need a handful of ingredients—each one bringing something essential to the table:

• Rotini Pasta – Its spiral shape holds onto the sauce and flavors beautifully.
• Ground Beef – Provides richness and makes the meal hearty and satisfying.
• Rotel Tomatoes (with green chilies) – The star of the sauce, giving it a spicy, tangy punch.
• Shredded Cheese – Melts into creamy perfection, adding that comforting gooeyness.
• Onion and Garlic – Aromatic base that enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning everything to taste.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley – Optional, but adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.

How To Make the Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Rotel

Stir in the can of Rotel tomatoes (do not drain). Simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss everything together. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, stir gently until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy immediately!

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How to Serve and Store Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet, when the cheese is still gooey and the flavors are at their peak. It makes a hearty meal for a hungry crowd and comfortably feeds 4 to 6 people. Serve it in individual bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or an extra handful of cheese on top for added richness.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. For longer storage, freeze for up to a month—just be sure to thaw overnight before reheating.

What to Serve With Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef?

Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread makes a perfect side. It’s great for scooping up extra sauce.

Simple Green Salad

Balance the richness of the pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette.

Roasted Vegetables

Caramelized carrots, zucchini, or broccoli pair beautifully with this savory pasta.

Steamed Green Beans

A quick and healthy side dish that adds color and crunch to the plate.

Caesar Salad

The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons contrast nicely with the cheesy pasta.

Sauteed Spinach

A great way to sneak in extra greens, cooked lightly with garlic and olive oil.

Grilled Chicken

For extra protein, serve this pasta alongside grilled chicken or even sliced Italian sausage.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage all work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the meat’s fat content.

Is this dish too spicy for kids?
Rotel tomatoes with green chilies can have a mild to moderate spice level. If you’re cooking for kids, use the mild version of Rotel or substitute with diced tomatoes and add your own spice to taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the pasta and beef mixture ahead, then store it in the fridge. Reheat on the stove and stir in cheese right before serving for the freshest texture.

What cheese melts best in this pasta?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack are great choices because they melt smoothly and complement the dish’s flavors. A mix of both offers creaminess and a slight sharp bite.

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Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different cheese or meat combo? Maybe you added veggies?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Find more recipes on my Pinterest here from Meals We Share By Sally!

Conclusion

Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is the perfect mix of comfort food and quick-fix dinner. It delivers big flavor from just a few ingredients and proves that weeknight meals don’t have to be boring. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this cheesy pasta dish is a surefire winner you’ll want to make again and again.

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