There’s something about a cheesy pasta dish that instantly feels like comfort. This Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara is one of those craveable, soul-warming meals that never fails to bring everyone to the table. It’s rich, creamy, and layered with flavor from slow-cooked Italian-seasoned beef to the gooey, melt-in-your-mouth Velveeta cheese.

This dish brings together the smooth creaminess of Velveeta and the deep, herby richness of a tomato marinara, balanced perfectly with rotini pasta that hugs every drop of sauce. It’s a one-pan solution for cozy nights, family dinners, or feeding a crowd with something that feels both indulgent and homey.

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

This pasta recipe delivers on every front: it’s creamy, saucy, and packed with flavor. The Velveeta adds a nostalgic, ultra-melty quality that makes it irresistible, while the Italian beef brings a hearty, spiced depth. It reheats well, is made in just one pot, and can be customized to your favorite level of cheesiness or heat.

It’s also an approachable weeknight dinner with minimal prep. Even picky eaters can’t help but dig in, and it makes fabulous leftovers. If you’re looking for that perfect balance of creamy cheese and savory tomato, this recipe nails it.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Cheesy Velveeta Rotini?

Rotini is perfect here because its spirals catch the cheesy marinara sauce in every twist and curve, ensuring flavor in every bite. That said, you can easily swap it out for penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni in a pinch. Just make sure whatever you choose can stand up to the hearty sauce and creamy cheese.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

To create a dish this rich in flavor, each ingredient plays a key role. You don’t need a long grocery list—just a few essentials to make every bite shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

Rotini Pasta
Velveeta Cheese
Ground Beef
Italian Seasoning
Garlic
Onion
Crushed Tomatoes
Tomato Paste
Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper

Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara 2

How To Make the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and slightly golden.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until fully browned.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Stir the cooked rotini into the beef marinara sauce. Cube the Velveeta cheese and stir it in, letting it melt completely into the pasta.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot and creamy with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately or store for later—it reheats beautifully.

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

This hearty dish serves about 6 people generously, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. For presentation, serve it in a deep pasta bowl and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy. It also freezes well for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara?

Garlic Bread

Golden, buttery garlic bread is a must. The crunch pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing bite.

Roasted Broccoli

The slight char of oven-roasted broccoli balances out the hearty, cheesy flavors.

Classic Caprese Salad

Bright and fresh with mozzarella, tomato, and basil, it complements the Italian flair of the main dish.

Steamed Green Beans

Simple and clean, green beans provide a crunchy, vibrant contrast.

Baked Zucchini Chips

Light and crisp, these add texture without weighing the meal down.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

If you want more protein, serve with a side of these herb-packed meatballs from the blog.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara, here are more comforting pasta favorites worth checking out:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a veggie-packed cheesy option.
One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni if you want bold flavor and less cleanup.
Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a little kick of heat.
Creamy Mushroom Ravioli for earthy comfort in every bite.
Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce for a protein-rich alternative.

Save This Recipe 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 try a different pasta shape? Did you add mushrooms or spice it up with red pepper flakes?

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

Explore beautifully curated dinner and comfort food inspiration on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dish!

Conclusion

Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara is that perfect dish when you want something indulgent yet easy. It hits all the marks—savory, creamy, satisfying, and family-approved. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday meal or a weekend gathering, this recipe is one to save and make again and again.