Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

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This Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara is what comfort food dreams are made of. Twirls of tender rotini pasta are smothered in a rich, savory tomato beef sauce, then blanketed with gooey Velveeta cheese that melts into every delicious crevice. It’s bold, it’s cheesy, it’s hearty—and it comes together easily in just one skillet or baking dish.

Perfect for family dinners or weeknight indulgence, this dish packs familiar flavors with a cheesy twist. The seasoned ground beef brings satisfying depth, while Velveeta offers that ultra-creamy melt that feels nostalgic in all the right ways. One bite and you’ll be hooked.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

This recipe is the definition of no-fuss comfort. It combines pantry staples into something that tastes like a labor of love but takes under an hour from start to table. You get the meaty heartiness of a slow-cooked sauce without hours of simmering, thanks to marinara boosted with Italian seasoning and garlic.

Velveeta keeps the cheese smooth and creamy—no stringy mess or gritty texture, just pure molten goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser for picky eaters and pasta lovers alike. Plus, this meal reheats like a dream, making it a go-to for leftovers or meal prep.

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Can I Use a Different Cheese or Pasta?

Absolutely! While Velveeta is perfect for a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience, you can sub in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack if that’s what you have on hand. Just know that the sauce might not be quite as smooth.

Rotini is ideal for trapping all the cheesy meat sauce, but penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni can work well. Just aim for a pasta shape with grooves or curves that will hold the sauce nicely.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Each ingredient in this dish serves a purpose, layering in flavor and comfort. Here’s what you’ll need to create that crave-worthy cheesy pasta:

• Rotini pasta: The spirals hold onto all that cheesy meat sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Ground beef: Provides hearty, savory richness and protein.
• Olive oil: Used to brown the beef and add flavor.
• Yellow onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic depth to the sauce.
• Garlic cloves: For that unmistakable Italian flavor.
• Marinara sauce: A shortcut to bold tomato flavor, forming the base of the beefy sauce.
• Italian seasoning: Brings in herbaceous notes like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Velveeta cheese: The star of the show—smooth, creamy, and easy to melt.
• Shredded mozzarella (optional): For that stretchy cheese topping, if you’re baking it.
• Salt and pepper: To season each layer just right.
• Fresh parsley: For a pop of color and fresh finish.

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How To Make the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Whether you bake it or serve it straight from the stove, this cheesy rotini dish is simple to pull off in just a few steps.

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and chopped onions. Cook until beef is browned and onions are soft, about 6–8 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in marinara sauce and stir in Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5–10 minutes to deepen the flavor. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Add the Velveeta

Reduce heat to low. Stir in cubed Velveeta cheese and mix until fully melted and combined into the sauce.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked rotini into the sauce and stir until well coated. If serving skillet-style, you’re ready to plate.

Step 6 (Optional): Bake It

Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella, and bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving hot.

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Serving and Storing Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

This dish feeds about 6 hearty portions, making it an ideal family dinner or meal prep option. Serve it straight out of the skillet or bubbling hot from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.

Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of water or marinara to keep the pasta moist and cheesy.

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What to Serve With Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Round out your plate with these delicious and simple sides that complement all the cheesy goodness.

1. Garlic Breadsticks

Warm, fluffy breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are a must for scooping up extra sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing add freshness and crunch.

3. Roasted Zucchini

A light and earthy veggie side that roasts up beautifully with olive oil and herbs.

4. Italian Chopped Salad

Packed with olives, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and pepperoncini for bold contrast.

5. Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy carrots are a fun flavor twist.

6. Sautéed Mushrooms

Rich and umami-packed, these are perfect for pairing with cheesy pasta.

7. Fresh Caprese Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a cool, no-cook starter.

8. Parmesan Roasted Green Beans

A crispy side that keeps the cheesy theme going.

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Want More Cheesy Pasta Ideas?

If you’re craving more bold, melty, flavor-packed pasta recipes like this Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara, you’re in for a treat. Try these next:

• Creamy Beef and Shells: A Comforting One-Pan Delight – perfect for cozy weeknights.
• Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole – ultra cheesy and kid-approved.
• One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne – simple, creamy, and packed with garlic flavor.
• Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne – juicy meatballs in a luscious creamy pasta.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe – romantic, rich, and ready in under an hour.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this cheesy pasta recipe to your Pinterest dinner board and come back to it anytime the cravings hit.

Made it and loved it? I want to hear about it! Did you add spicy sausage or swap in penne? Let me know in the comments how you made it your own.

For even more mouthwatering dinner ideas and cheesy pasta inspirations, visit NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest.

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