Cozy weeknight dinners can be a challenge for busy moms. Between school activities, homework, and everyone’s hunger, there’s little time to whip up an elaborate meal. Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef offers the perfect solution. This recipe is quick, comforting, and sure to please the whole family.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef is a crowd-pleaser in every sense. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Kids love the creamy texture and the hint of spice from the Rotel, making it a kid-friendly choice. Plus, the minimal prep time means you can spend more time with your family instead of in the kitchen.
How to Make Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni (Feel free to use any pasta shape you love.)
- 1 lb Ground Beef (Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Can be swapped for canola oil if preferred.)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can kick it up a notch.)
- 1 tsp Onion Powder (Replace with finely diced fresh onion for extra texture.)
- 1 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste for perfect seasoning.)
- 1 tsp Pepper (Adjust to taste for perfect seasoning.)
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (Rotel) (If unavailable, use plain diced tomatoes with spices.)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (Consider sour cream for a tangy twist.)
- 1 cup Beef Broth (Keep it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead.)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or a dairy-free alternative.)
Directions
- Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add your elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, followed by the cream cheese and beef broth. Mix until the cream cheese melts and everything is well combined.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix until every noodle is coated with the creamy sauce.
- Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and stir until melted and evenly distributed.
- Serve warm and enjoy a comforting meal with your family.
Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef
A quick and comforting pasta dish featuring creamy cheese and a hint of spice, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (Rotel)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, cream cheese, and beef broth. Mix until cream cheese melts and everything is well combined.
- Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix until coated with the creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and stir until melted and evenly distributed.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread. Customize with extra cheese or hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Beef
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to Serve
Serve this dish with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also offer some extra cheese or hot sauce at the table for those who want to customize their bowls.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen up the creamy sauce. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through.
Tips and Variations
- Swap out the elbow macaroni for shells, penne, or any pasta you prefer.
- For a vegetarian option, use ground beef substitutes and vegetable broth.
- Add in extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Sour cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative can offer a nice twist.
Is this dish spicy?
The spice level is mild, but you can adjust it with hot sauce or more chili tomatoes if you prefer a kick.
Conclusion
Don’t hesitate to try Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef. It’s a simple, delicious recipe that fits perfectly into busy weeknight meals. Save this recipe for later and enjoy a warm dinner with your family that they’ll request again and again. Happy cooking!
