There’s something comforting about a pot of creamy beef and Rotel macaroni bubbling on the stove. It’s hearty, rich, and packed with flavor — the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with an irresistible, cozy aroma.
With tender pasta, juicy ground beef, and a velvety sauce made from cream cheese and cheddar, this simple dinner delivers big satisfaction. Every bite has a touch of spice from Rotel and the kind of creamy, cheesy goodness that brings everyone back for seconds.
Creamy Beef and Rotel Macaroni
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta (made with ground beef in this version) is a rich and cheesy comfort food dinner made with elbow macaroni, Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, and cheddar in a garlicky sauce everyone will love.
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)
Instructions
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
You can swap ground beef for ground chicken or turkey if preferred.
Use any short pasta you have on hand like penne or rotini.
Add extra heat with a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
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Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Rotel Macaroni
This recipe is the perfect mix of comfort and convenience. The sauce is luxuriously creamy, balanced by the tangy kick of tomatoes and green chilies. It’s a one-pot wonder — easy enough for busy weeknights yet satisfying enough for a cozy weekend meal.
The blend of cheddar and cream cheese gives the pasta a rich, smooth texture, while the garlic and onion powders deepen the flavor. Best of all, it’s a forgiving recipe — no fancy steps, no stress, just reliable, amazing flavor in every spoonful.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef and Rotel Macaroni
- Cook the pasta al dente. Slightly firm pasta holds up better when mixed with the creamy sauce, keeping the dish from turning mushy.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated cheese melts silkily into the sauce.
- Let the cream cheese soften fully. This ensures it melts seamlessly, creating that dreamy, velvety texture.
- Don’t rush the sauce. Stir gently and give the cream cheese time to melt completely before adding the pasta — patience brings richness.
- Taste as you go. The beef broth adds salt, so adjust seasoning gradually for perfect balance.
- Garnish smartly. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley adds a burst of freshness that cuts through the creamy richness.
Be sure your beef is fully cooked to a safe temperature as recommended by the USDA Food Safety Guidelines
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
It’s easy to overcook the pasta or forget to drain excess fat from the beef. Both can lead to a heavy, greasy texture that dulls the dish’s bright, bold flavor. Make sure your beef is nicely browned and drained before you add the sauce ingredients.
Another common pitfall is overheating the sauce. High heat can cause the cheese to separate, resulting in a grainy texture. Keep your flame low and stir steadily for that smooth, luscious consistency.
Storage Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers, this pasta reheats beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to revive its creamy texture.
To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Estimated Nutrition
Each serving is around 430 calories, offering a cozy balance of carbs, protein, and rich flavor. You’ll get a satisfying dose of calcium from the cheddar and cream cheese, along with hearty energy from the beef and pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the recipe as directed, then store it covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like more heat, choose a hot variety of Rotel or add diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef while cooking.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles all work wonderfully. They soak up the same creamy sauce and keep the texture satisfying.
What sides pair well with this pasta?
A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make a perfect balance. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a side of steamed broccoli for an easy, complete meal.
Variations to Try
This creamy beef and Rotel macaroni is wonderfully versatile. You can customize it to your taste or pantry without losing that rich, cozy flavor. Try swapping the cheddar for pepper jack for a little extra kick, or use ground turkey for a leaner version.
Want a creamier finish? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a handful of mozzarella just before serving. For veggie lovers, add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or corn to make it colorful and hearty. Each variation brings its own delightful twist while keeping the dish comforting and satisfying.
Serving Ideas
This dish shines on its own, but pairing it well can turn dinner into a feast. Serve it with a side of warm garlic bread to soak up the cheesy sauce or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
For a homestyle spread, try roasted vegetables or a simple bowl of buttery corn. If you’re hosting, spoon the pasta into an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil for a minute — you’ll get that golden, bubbling top everyone loves.
Make It a Family Favorite
There’s something about creamy pasta that brings people together. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, yet special enough to serve at Sunday dinner. Kids love the cheesy comfort, and adults appreciate the balanced heat from the Rotel.
It’s one of those dishes that feels nostalgic and new at the same time — easy to make, endlessly rewarding, and sure to earn a permanent place in your family’s rotation. For extra fun, let everyone sprinkle their own toppings — chopped herbs, crushed chips, or even a drizzle of hot sauce.
