Cheesy Rotel Beef Pasta
Rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness — this is the kind of crockpot comfort food that feeds a crowd and disappears fast.
If you’re looking for a no-fuss dinner that delivers big flavor, Cheesy Rotel Beef Pasta is it. This dish brings together seasoned ground beef, melty cheeses, and Rotel tomatoes for just the right balance of creamy and bold. Everything melts together in the crockpot while you handle the pasta, making dinner feel effortless but incredibly satisfying.
As it cooks, the cheese turns smooth and velvety, the beef adds hearty flavor, and the Rotel gives a gentle kick that keeps every bite interesting. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
🛒 Ingredient Overview (Why Each One Matters)
Ground Beef (1–1½ lbs)
Adds hearty, savory flavor and makes the dish filling.
Velveeta Cheese (1 block, cubed)
Melts smoothly for a rich, creamy sauce with no clumps.
Cream Cheese (1 block)
Adds extra creaminess and balances the flavor.
Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can)
Creates a smooth, savory base for the sauce.
Rotel Tomatoes (1 can, undrained)
Adds tomatoes and mild heat for bold flavor.
Bowtie Pasta (12 oz)
Holds the sauce well and keeps its shape.
Pasta Water (as needed)
Helps thin the sauce while keeping it silky.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
⭐ Step 1: Brown the Beef
Turn the crockpot on HIGH.
In a skillet, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
Drain excess grease.
⭐ Step 2: Add to Crockpot
Add the cooked beef to the crockpot.
Stir in Velveeta, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and Rotel tomatoes.
⭐ Step 3: Melt & Cook
Cover and cook on HIGH for about 1½ hours, stirring once or twice, until everything is melted and creamy.
⭐ Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, boil the bowtie pasta according to package directions.
Drain and reserve a little pasta water.
⭐ Step 5: Combine & Serve
Just before serving, stir the cooked pasta into the crockpot mixture.
Add a little pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Mix well and serve hot.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes — penne, rotini, or shells work great. -
Is this spicy?
Mild, but you can use hot Rotel for extra heat. -
Can I substitute ground turkey?
Absolutely — it works well. -
Do I need to cook pasta in the crockpot?
No — cook it separately for best texture. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — reheat gently before serving. -
Does it reheat well?
Very well, especially with a splash of milk. -
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger slow cooker. -
What cheese can I use besides Velveeta?
Velveeta melts best, but shredded cheese can work with extra liquid. -
Is this kid-friendly?
Very — cheesy and familiar. -
What sides go well with it?
Garlic bread, salad, or steamed veggies.
💡 Helpful Tips for Success
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Stir once or twice for even melting
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Cut cheese into cubes for faster melting
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Drain beef well to avoid grease
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Add pasta just before serving
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Use pasta water to adjust sauce
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Keep on warm setting if needed
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Don’t overcook once pasta is added
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Taste and adjust seasoning
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Serve immediately for best texture
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Comfort food loves simplicity
🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips
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Refrigerate leftovers up to 3–4 days
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Store in airtight containers
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Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave
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Add a splash of milk or water
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Stir while reheating
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Freezing not recommended (cheese texture)
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Best enjoyed warm
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Portion easily
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Flavor holds well
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Great next-day leftovers
🔐 Recipe Secrets (Why This Works)
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Velveeta guarantees smooth sauce
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Cream cheese adds richness
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Rotel balances creaminess
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Crockpot prevents scorching
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Pasta added last stays tender
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Minimal prep
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Big payoff
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Crowd-pleasing flavors
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Budget-friendly
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Reliable comfort
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Rotel Beef Pasta is creamy, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. It’s the kind of dish that feeds a crowd, stretches ingredients, and still feels indulgent — true comfort food made simple.