Quick Weeknight Dinners

Easy Cheesy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef for Busy Families

Recipes without scrolling through a chapter book to get to it? ahh.. yes please!

Cheesy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini – whatever’s on sale!)
  • 1 lb ground beef (substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a more affordable option)
  • 1 can (10oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (store-brand works great!)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend – check the dairy aisle for deals!)
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess – look for generic brands)
  • 1/2 cup milk (any kind you have on hand)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta
    Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Brown the ground beef
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
  • Add Rotel and seasonings
    Stir in the can of Rotel (including the liquid), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors combine.
  • Make the cheesy sauce
    Lower the heat and add the cream cheese (if using). Stir until it melts and blends into the beef mixture.Pour in the milk and shredded cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  • Combine the pasta
    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the cheesy beef mixture.
  • Serve and enjoy!
    Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Budget-Friendly Tips

  • Buy in bulk: Purchase ground beef in larger quantities and freeze what you don’t use for later meals.
  • Generic brands: Opt for store-brand Rotel, cheese, and seasonings – they’re often just as good as name brands.
  • Stretch it further: Add a can of drained black beans or corn to make the dish more filling without adding much cost.
  • Use leftovers: This pasta reheats well and is perfect for lunch the next day!
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