If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and creamy textures, you’ve got to try this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Sausage and Ground Beef Recipe. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that brings together perfectly cooked pasta, savory sausage, and ground beef mingling with the tangy kick of Rotel tomatoes and the velvety melt of Velveeta cheese. Every bite is like a cozy, flavorful hug, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser and a staple you’ll want to keep coming back to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a large white bowl filled with creamy orange sauce that has bits of red and brown mixed inside, likely from peppers and ground meat. On top of the sauce, there is a generous pile of plain, pale yellow spiral pasta sitting in the center, creating a strong contrast with the sauce underneath. The bowl rests on a dark wooden surface, but the background should be imagined as a white marbled texture. The sauce looks smooth with small chunks, while the pasta appears firm and dry, not yet mixed with the sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is half the fun, especially when each one plays a crucial role. These simple yet vibrant essentials give the dish its irresistible taste, creamy texture, and colorful appeal.

12 ounces Rotini Pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, making every forkful delicious.
1 pound Sausage: Adds a smoky, spicy depth that enhances the overall richness.
1 pound Ground Beef: Offers a hearty meatiness that balances the flavors beautifully.
½ Yellow Onion (diced): Provides a sweet and savory base that brings warmth to the dish.
1 Red Bell Pepper (diced): Adds a pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
1 Yellow Bell Pepper (diced): Another layer of sweetness and crunch for texture contrast.
1 tsp Onion Powder: Enhances the onion flavor without extra moisture.
1 tsp Garlic Powder: Brings a subtle but aromatic punch to the mix.
2 cans Rotel (undrained, 10 ounces each): Combining diced tomatoes and green chilies, this gives a tangy and mildly spicy kick.
16 ounces Velveeta Cheese: The creamy backbone that melts perfectly for that signature smooth sauce.
½ cup Milk: Helps create a luscious, velvety consistency for the cheese sauce.
Chopped Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish beautifully.

How to Make Creamy Rotel Pasta with Sausage and Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water well, as this seasons the pasta from the inside out. Once tender and al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up that creamy sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Ground Beef

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the sausage and ground beef together. Breaking the meat into small crumbles ensures even cooking and lets all those tasty juices develop. Once browned, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish rich but not greasy.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Next, toss in the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté these with the meat for about 5 to 7 minutes until the veggies soften up and the onion becomes translucent. This step is key for building layers of flavor and adding a little sweetness and crunch.

Step 4: Season Well

Sprinkle in the onion powder and garlic powder, then stir everything well. These dried spices enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables and meat without overwhelming the dish, giving a subtle but important boost of savory goodness.

Step 5: Add the Rotel Tomatoes

Pour the undrained cans of Rotel into the skillet, letting the diced tomatoes and green chilies mingle with the meat and veggies. This addition brings brightness and a gentle heat that perfectly complements the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese and Stir in Milk

Now comes the magic: add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the skillet and gradually stir in the milk. Keep the heat low and be patient while the cheese melts into a silky, dreamy sauce that envelopes every bite with richness. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and luscious.

Step 7: Combine with Pasta

Finally, fold the cooked rotini pasta into the skillet. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly so all those spirals are beautifully coated in the creamy Rotel cheese sauce mingling with the sausage and ground beef. It’s the moment all those flavors and textures come together in harmony.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Dish it out warm, and don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top. This simple garnish adds a fresh edge and lovely color contrast to this comforting meal that’s ready to delight your taste buds.

How to Serve Creamy Rotel Pasta with Sausage and Ground Beef Recipe

A close-up view of a pan filled with creamy pasta showing about three layers: spiral-shaped fusilli pasta in a pale yellow color mixed with a rich, light orange creamy sauce as the base layer; chunks of browned meat and diced red and yellow bell peppers spread evenly throughout; and small bits of green herbs sprinkled on top adding a fresh texture. A wooden spoon is resting in the pan, stirring the mixture. The pan sits on a wooden table next to fresh parsley, a whole onion, and a red bell pepper cut open, with a cookbook partially visible in the upper left corner. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic choice, brightening the rich pasta visually and flavor-wise. You can also consider a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want some extra heat and personality on top.

Side Dishes

This dish holds its own beautifully but pairs wonderfully with green, crisp side salads or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. A crunchy garlic bread or warm cornbread is also a fantastic companion to mop up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this creamy Rotel pasta in hollowed-out bell peppers or even small bread bowls. It’s equally delightful as a plated meal or a served buffet dish, making it perfect for casual family dinners or entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Creamy Rotel Pasta with Sausage and Ground Beef Recipe into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making for an even more satisfying next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to stock up. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep it frozen for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of the cheese sauce might change slightly but will remain tasty.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or heating unevenly. You might want to add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce again so it regains its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for holding onto the sauce, penne, rigatoni, or corkscrew-shaped pastas also work wonderfully. Just make sure to cook until al dente for the best texture.

What kind of sausage is best for this dish?

Italian sausage, either spicy or mild depending on your preference, works beautifully. You can also try breakfast sausage for a slightly sweeter take, or go for a smoked sausage for an extra layer of flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Sausage and Ground Beef Recipe?

Yes! Simply omit the meats and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or plant-based meat substitutes. The Velveeta and Rotel combination still delivers a creamy, flavorful dish that’s just as satisfying.

Can I substitute Velveeta with other cheeses?

Velveeta is beloved for its smooth melting qualities, but you can experiment with processed cheese products, cream cheese, or a combination of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might vary.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat level mostly comes from the Rotel tomatoes which have mild green chilies. If you prefer it spicier, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to taste.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Creamy Rotel Pasta with Sausage and Ground Beef Recipe enough for anyone looking to whip up a flavorful, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on your plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish combines simple ingredients into a creamy, delicious experience that you’ll want to share with family and friends again and again.