Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta -

Here’s what you will need to make Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta:

1 large block Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained
2 lbs ground beef
8 oz rigatoni pasta
Optional: 1 cup reserved pasta water

Directions

Follow these steps to create your creamy pasta masterpiece:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package directions for 9–11 minutes until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef – While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 8–10 minutes until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce – In the same skillet, add cubed Velveeta, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup. Cook over medium heat, stirring until everything melts and becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes – Stir in the undrained Rotel tomatoes with chilies. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to combine the flavors.
Step 5: Mix Pasta & Sauce – Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve – Serve hot, garnished with optional fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta

If you want a bit of a kick, increase the amount of Rotel tomatoes or add fresh chopped jalapeños.
For an even creamier consistency, consider adding a splash of heavy cream along with the Velveeta and cream cheese.
Garnish your dish with fresh parsley or chives for an added pop of color and flavor.
To make this a complete meal, serve with a simple side salad or some garlic bread.
This dish freezes well, so you can make a larger batch and save individual servings for later.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses or replace Velveeta with a cheese that melts well, like Monterey Jack or Gruyère.

2. How can I add more vegetables?

You can mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach while combining the pasta with the sauce.

3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish holds up well in the fridge for a few days and can be reheated easily.

4. Can I substitute ground beef for another protein?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can work well in this recipe if you prefer a different protein source.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk if the sauce thickens too much.

Conclusion

Creamy Velveeta Beef & Rigatoni Pasta is a deliciously comforting dish that combines simple ingredients for maximum flavor. With its cheesy goodness and ease of preparation, it’s bound to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy this creamy delight any night of the week, and don’t be afraid to customize it to your liking!

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