There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta, especially when it’s packed with rich, savory flavors. Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta is a dish that delivers on all fronts quick to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. I first made this dish on a busy weeknight when I was craving something cozy but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of creamy Velveeta cheese, smooth cream cheese, and hearty ground beef creates a sauce so rich and velvety, it’s almost like a warm hug on a plate. Add the tender rigatoni, and you’ve got a meal that feels both indulgent and comforting.
This recipe is perfect for all sorts of occasions, whether you’re feeding the family after a long day or prepping for a casual weekend gathering. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious, crowd-pleasing dinner in no time. Whether you’re looking for something easy for a busy weeknight or want a dish that pairs well with a glass of wine and good conversation, this pasta is the answer. Keep reading to discover why this cheesy, meaty, and utterly comforting dish should become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Creamy: The combination of Velveeta cheese and cream cheese creates a silky, smooth sauce that wraps around every bite of rigatoni pasta, offering ultimate comfort.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples like Velveeta, cream cheese, and ground beef, this dish is both easy to prepare and budget-friendly.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
- Family-Friendly: The cheesy, savory flavors make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s an excellent choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or even dinner with friends.
- Versatile: This recipe works as a filling main course or as a side to complement other dishes. It’s also a great base for adding extra veggies or spices if you want to get creative.
This dish is the perfect balance of indulgence and ease. The Velveeta melts effortlessly into a velvety sauce, coating every piece of rigatoni in cheesy goodness. The Rotel tomatoes add just the right amount of tang and heat, while the ground beef provides a satisfying, hearty texture.
Plus, it’s an excellent meal for meal prepping. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a great option for lunches throughout the week. If you’re looking for a stress-free, delicious dinner that tastes like it took hours to make, this is the one.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 big block of Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained
- 2.25 pounds ground beef
- 8 oz pasta Rigatoni
- (Optional) 1 cup pasta water, reserved to thin the sauce
Preparation:
-
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
-
Brown the Ground Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Continue to cook until the beef is fully browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
-
Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, add the cubed Velveeta cheese, softened cream cheese, and the can of cream of chicken soup. Stir everything together over medium heat until the cheeses are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
-
Add the Rotel Tomatoes: Stir in the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes with chilies. Continue to cook the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
-
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet with the creamy cheese mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
This creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta recipe is wonderfully versatile and can be customized to fit various dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Here are a few creative variations you can try:
-
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian take on this dish, replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein, such as lentils, crumbled tofu, or even mushrooms. You could also add a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to bulk up the dish and add more flavor.
-
Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, consider adding extra spices or hot sauce to the sauce. You can include chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. For an even spicier twist, try using hot Rotel tomatoes instead of the regular variety.
-
Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the rigatoni for gluten-free pasta. There are a variety of gluten-free pasta options available, such as rice or corn-based pasta, that will work well without compromising on flavor.
-
Lower-Fat Version: If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, you can substitute the Velveeta and cream cheese with lower-fat or fat-free versions. Alternatively, use a reduced-fat cream of chicken soup. You can also replace the ground beef with leaner cuts of meat, such as ground turkey or chicken breast.
How to Serve
Serving this creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta is all about pairing it with the right sides and garnishes to complement its rich, cheesy flavor. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:
-
Fresh Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta. Consider a simple mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light balsamic dressing. This will add freshness and balance out the heaviness of the pasta.
-
Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: What’s a cheesy pasta dish without something to scoop up that creamy sauce? Serve this dish with warm garlic bread or crunchy breadsticks. The crispy texture and garlic flavor pair perfectly with the velvety pasta sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
-
Steamed Vegetables: For a healthier, well-rounded meal, add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. These not only complement the dish’s richness but also provide a nutritional boost.
-
Garnishes: Top the pasta with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and a fresh herbal flavor. You can also sprinkle extra shredded cheese or grated Parmesan for an added cheesy touch.
Recipe Tips:
To make your Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta even more delicious, consider the following tips:
-
Use High-Quality Ground Beef: The ground beef is a key ingredient in this dish, so it’s worth investing in quality meat. Opt for lean ground beef for a slightly healthier version or choose a fattier cut for more flavor. If you prefer a leaner meal, you can always drain excess fat after browning the beef.
-
Don’t Overcook the Pasta:
Rigatoni pasta should be al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite to it. Overcooking the pasta can cause it to become mushy and lose its texture. Be sure to follow the package instructions for the best results. -
Experiment with Cheese: While Velveeta provides a signature creamy texture, you can experiment with other cheeses for added complexity. Try adding mozzarella for a melty, gooey texture or a sharp cheddar to enhance the flavor profile.
-
Add Extra Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrients? Consider adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the beef mixture. These vegetables complement the richness of the sauce and add a pop of color.
-
Make Ahead and Store: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of pasta water to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Cooking Notes:
-
Browning the Beef: When browning the ground beef, ensure that you break it up into small, even pieces using a spatula. This will allow the meat to cook evenly and prevent large chunks in the sauce.
-
Adjust Sauce Consistency: The sauce may thicken up as it sits. If that happens, simply add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. The starch in the pasta water will also help the sauce cling to the pasta.
-
Velveeta Melting Tip: Velveeta can melt very quickly, so make sure to stir it gently to avoid it clumping. If you find it doesn’t melt as smoothly, a small splash of milk or heavy cream can help smooth things out.
-
Keep an Eye on the Cream Cheese: Since cream cheese is used, ensure it’s softened before adding it to the sauce. Cold cream cheese will not blend well and could result in lumps. Allow it to come to room temperature before starting your recipe.
-
Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve this pasta right after making it. The creamy sauce is at its most luscious and the pasta retains its perfect texture when freshly made.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~650 per serving
- Protein: ~35g
- Sodium: ~1200mg
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
FAQs:
-
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta?
While Velveeta is known for its smooth and creamy texture, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses. If you prefer a more natural cheese option, try using a combination of cream cheese and cheddar. However, keep in mind that it may not be as smooth and velvety as Velveeta. To achieve a similar creamy texture, try adding some heavy cream or milk to the cheese blend.
-
Can I make this recipe with ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef if you’re looking to lighten up the dish. Ground chicken or turkey will provide a leaner protein option and still work well in the recipe. Just make sure to cook the turkey thoroughly and consider seasoning it more generously to enhance its flavor.
-
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the rigatoni for a gluten-free pasta alternative. There are many gluten-free pasta options available, such as rice or corn-based pasta. Just ensure the pasta you choose is suitable for your dietary preferences. Additionally, make sure the cream of chicken soup and any other packaged ingredients are gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat.
Conclusion:
Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta is one of those comforting dishes that brings everyone together around the table. It’s rich, hearty, and indulgent, making it perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even gatherings with friends. The combination of Velveeta cheese and cream cheese creates a luxuriously smooth sauce that perfectly coats the rigatoni, while the savory beef and tangy Rotel tomatoes add a burst of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy dinner solution, this recipe offers the right balance of simplicity and satisfaction.
This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for modifications to fit dietary needs or personal preferences. You can swap in leaner meats, go for a gluten-free pasta, or even get creative with different cheeses. The recipe can be prepped ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for busy nights when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort. Plus, it stores and reheats well, so you can enjoy leftovers the next day.
If you love comfort food that delivers both in taste and ease of preparation, this creamy pasta recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting a gathering, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. We’d love to hear about your experience with this dish, so don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts!
Remember, cooking is all about creativity and enjoyment. Feel free to experiment with the variations, and don’t hesitate to add your own personal twist to make this dish even more memorable. For more delicious recipes, tips, and inspiration, make sure to check out our other posts and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Print
Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 big block of Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained
- 2.25 pounds ground beef
- 8 oz pasta Rigatoni
- (Optional) 1 cup pasta water, reserved to thin the sauce
Instructions
Preparation:
-
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
-
Brown the Ground Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Continue to cook until the beef is fully browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
-
Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, add the cubed Velveeta cheese, softened cream cheese, and the can of cream of chicken soup. Stir everything together over medium heat until the cheeses are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
-
Add the Rotel Tomatoes: Stir in the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes with chilies. Continue to cook the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
-
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet with the creamy cheese mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 650
- Sodium: 1200
- Protein: 35