Golden spirals of rotini pasta, smothered in creamy Velveeta cheese and crowned with a hearty Italian beef marinara, make this dish a weeknight hero. Every forkful brings together the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth richness of Velveeta with the savory depth of slow-simmered beef in tomato sauce. The pasta clings to the sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with cheesy, meaty goodness.

This recipe is a comfort food classic with a touch of Italian flair, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day. The combination of tender rotini, luscious cheese, and flavorful marinara is both satisfying and indulgent, turning a simple pasta dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience at home.

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

This dish blends the creamy, nostalgic flavor of Velveeta with a rich, herb-infused marinara sauce. The beef adds protein and heartiness, making it a full meal in one bowl. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy evenings when you want something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile—add veggies, swap the beef for sausage, or make it spicy with red pepper flakes.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools & Their Importance:

Large pot: For boiling the rotini to al dente perfection.
Colander: Drains pasta efficiently without losing any precious spirals.
Large skillet or saucepan: Allows enough space to brown the beef evenly and simmer the marinara sauce.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce and pasta without damaging cookware.
Oven-safe baking dish (optional): Perfect if you want to bake the assembled pasta with extra cheese for a bubbly top layer.
Measuring cups & spoons: Ensure the right balance between cheese, sauce, and seasoning.

With these tools at the ready, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth, stress-free cooking process.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Rotini pasta: Its spiral shape holds onto the cheese and sauce, giving each bite maximum flavor.
Velveeta cheese: The star of the dish, providing a smooth, creamy texture that coats the pasta perfectly.
Ground beef: Adds richness, protein, and a savory depth to the marinara sauce.
Marinara sauce: Brings acidity and sweetness to balance the creaminess of the cheese.
Olive oil: For browning the beef and enhancing the sauce’s flavor.
Garlic: Infuses the beef and sauce with aromatic warmth.
Italian seasoning: A balanced mix of herbs for authentic Italian flair.
Salt and pepper: Simple yet essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.

How To Make the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Step 1: Boil the Pasta to Al Dente

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

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Add minced garlic to the cooked beef and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Melt in the Velveeta

Cut Velveeta into cubes for easier melting. Reduce heat to low and add Velveeta to the sauce, stirring until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the drained rotini into the skillet with the sauce. Toss until every spiral is coated in cheesy marinara. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation. Pair it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The creamy sauce means it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for next-day lunches or dinners.

Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, fusilli, or even shells work well for holding the sauce and cheese.

What can I substitute for Velveeta?

You can use cheddar, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheeses, but Velveeta gives the smoothest texture.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based meat alternative.

How can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or stir in a bit of spicy marinara sauce.

Can I bake it after combining?

Yes, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F until bubbly and golden on top.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! The mild flavors and creamy cheese make it a hit with kids, though you can adjust seasoning to taste.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara, you might also enjoy these other hearty pasta favorites:

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta for a cheesy baked comfort dish.
Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta for a buttery, beefy twist.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for another creamy pasta indulgence.
Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for a poultry-based cheesy delight.
One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta for a smoky, spicy kick.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the cheese or add extra herbs? Maybe you spiced it up with some chili flakes?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

For more delicious ideas, follow me on Pinterest at Kitchen By Kate.