Twisty rotini drenched in bold Italian-seasoned beef marinara and crowned with a golden, melty layer of Velveeta cheese – that’s comfort food done right. This Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara is the kind of weeknight dinner that hits all the right notes: hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly saucy.

Every bite of this dish wraps you in warmth. The rich beef sauce is simmered to savory perfection with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, then tossed with tender rotini pasta that holds onto every bit of flavor. Topped with a velvety blanket of melted Velveeta, it creates a gooey, cheesy experience you won’t soon forget.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for This Cheesy Italian Beef Bake?

Rotini is the go-to for this recipe because its spiral shape clings beautifully to the marinara sauce, delivering the perfect bite every time. However, feel free to swap in penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure it’s a pasta with grooves or ridges to soak up all that saucy goodness.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Rotini Pasta: This spiral-shaped pasta holds sauce perfectly, giving every bite full flavor.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef adds richness and heartiness to the marinara base.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the beef with aromatic depth.
Crushed Tomatoes: These form the flavorful foundation of the marinara sauce.
Tomato Paste: Adds extra thickness and bold tomato flavor to balance the crushed tomatoes.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary gives the sauce that signature Italian taste.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning the meat and sauce.
Velveeta Cheese: The star of the show – it melts smoothly and adds that signature creamy-cheesy texture.
Mozzarella Cheese (optional): For extra gooey pull-apart cheese layers on top.
Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

How To Make the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Add the minced garlic to the cooked beef and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes so the flavors can develop.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef marinara sauce. Toss gently to coat the rotini evenly with the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Velveeta

Reduce heat to low and stir in chunks of Velveeta cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and thick.

Step 6: Optional Cheese Topping

Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving for a bright, herby finish. Serve hot and enjoy that cheesy, saucy goodness!

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

This dish is best served hot, right after the cheese gets that perfect melt. Whether you scoop it straight from the skillet or bake it for that bubbly topping, it pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a simple side salad. Serve it family-style in a large dish for casual gatherings, or plate it individually with a touch of grated Parmesan on top.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results when reheating, add a splash of milk or water before microwaving or warming on the stovetop to restore that creamy texture.

What to Serve With Cheesy Velveeta Rotini?

Garlic Bread

The crunchy, buttery edges of garlic bread make a perfect contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad brings a fresh crunch and tang that balances the creaminess of the dish.

Roasted Broccoli

This adds a healthy, earthy element that complements the depth of the beef marinara.

Antipasto Skewers

Add a touch of Italian flair with skewers of olives, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and salami.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzle with balsamic reduction offer a refreshing side.

Sauteed Green Beans

Lightly cooked green beans with garlic and lemon zest brighten the plate.

Crusty Italian Bread

Tear and dip into the extra sauce – it’s too good to waste.

A Glass of Red Wine

Try a medium-bodied red like Chianti or Zinfandel for an easy wine pairing that elevates your meal.

Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

If you loved this cheesy Velveeta rotini, you’ll definitely want to explore more savory, saucy, and satisfying pasta creations:

Try our Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for another quick weeknight comfort dish.
Don’t miss the Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta with its luscious, one-pan magic.
Level up with our Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole that’s packed with flavor and freezer-friendly.
Craving even more creamy indulgence? Check out the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta.
And for a baked twist, the Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells are a veggie-packed hit.

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Did you go full-on cheese with extra mozzarella? Or maybe swapped in turkey or sausage for the beef? I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Leave a comment and share your twist!

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