Description
Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful weeknight dinner that’s quick to prepare. This dish combines tender elbow macaroni with savory ground beef, zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies, smooth cream cheese, and melted cheddar cheese for a rich and satisfying meal perfect for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni
Protein & Dairy
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 8 oz Cream Cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Liquids & Oils
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 cup Beef Broth
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
Produce & Canned Goods
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (Rotel)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
- Season the Meat: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper into the browned beef. Cook for 1 minute to let the spices meld with the meat, enhancing the flavor.
- Add Rotel, Cream Cheese, and Broth: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel), softened cream cheese, and beef broth. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Return the cooked elbow macaroni to the pot with the creamy meat sauce. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir well until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly coated.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the creamy Rotel pasta to bowls. Optionally garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a bright, fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy your cozy meal.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Use fresh minced garlic and diced onions instead of garlic and onion powders for a more pronounced flavor.
- If cream cheese is not preferred, sour cream can be used for a tangier twist.
- Use vegetable broth to keep the dish vegetarian-friendly.
- Try Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese alternative for the shredded cheese if desired.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Rotel pasta, creamy pasta, ground beef dinner, quick weeknight meal, cheesy pasta recipe, comfort food
