Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

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Nothing says comfort food quite like a bubbling, cheesy pasta bake, and this Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara delivers all that and more. This dish combines the melty magic of Velveeta cheese with the hearty richness of slow-simmered Italian beef marinara, wrapped around tender rotini pasta. It’s the kind of recipe that brings the whole family running to the table.

What makes this dish especially crave-worthy is the perfect balance of creamy cheese and savory tomato meat sauce. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew on a weeknight or dishing up something cozy for a weekend dinner, this easy pasta bake is loaded with comfort and flavor. Plus, it reheats like a dream, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping.

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What Kind of Cheese Should I Use for Cheesy Rotini?

Velveeta is the star of this show for a reason—it melts effortlessly into a silky sauce that clings to every curve of the rotini. Its creaminess pairs beautifully with the acidity of the marinara and the savoriness of Italian-style beef. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can toss in a handful of shredded mozzarella or parmesan on top before baking for an extra cheesy crust.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Rotini Pasta – Chosen for its corkscrew shape that holds onto sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful and rich.

Velveeta Cheese – The essential ingredient for that creamy, dreamy texture. It melts down into a luscious cheese sauce without separating.

Ground Beef (or Italian sausage) – Adds protein and a savory depth to the marinara sauce, making it hearty and satisfying.

Marinara Sauce – A classic base, either homemade or store-bought, enriched with herbs, garlic, and onions for full Italian flavor.

Onion & Garlic – Essential aromatics that create a rich and inviting base for the sauce.

Olive Oil – Used to sauté the onion and garlic, enhancing their flavor.

Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that boosts the traditional Italian profile of the dish.

Salt & Pepper – For seasoning the meat and sauce to taste.

Optional: Mozzarella or Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkled on top for that golden-baked cheesy finish.

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How To Make the Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until just al dente, usually about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté diced onions until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Then, add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Build the Marinara

Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Make it Cheesy

Reduce heat to low and add chunks of Velveeta cheese to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and blended into the sauce, creating a creamy meat sauce.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked rotini with the cheesy beef marinara sauce. Mix thoroughly to coat all the pasta. Optionally, sprinkle mozzarella or parmesan on top.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling

Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for easier scooping.

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Serving and Storing Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara

This pasta bake is at its best fresh from the oven, when the cheese is melty and the marinara is bubbling around the edges. Serve it in generous scoops with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for color and a pop of freshness.

Got leftovers? You’re in luck. Store the cooled pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture.

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

Garlic Bread

A crusty, buttery sidekick that’s perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine and tangy dressing balance the richness of the pasta dish.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a smoky crunch and keeps the meal veggie-forward.

Caprese Skewers

Light and fresh, these tomato-mozzarella-basil bites are a colorful starter.

Antipasto Platter

Olives, cured meats, and marinated veggies offer bold contrast to the creamy pasta.

Italian Green Beans

Sautéed with garlic and a touch of lemon zest, they bring brightness and crunch.

Balsamic Roasted Carrots

A sweet-savory twist that enhances the herby Italian flavors of the main dish.

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Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

If this Cheesy Velveeta Rotini with Italian Beef Marinara has your taste buds dancing, you’ll love these other creamy, comforting dishes:

• Try our Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta for another cheesy twist with a different noodle shape.
• Craving slow-cooked richness? Our Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy delivers on cozy vibes.
• Spice things up with this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet — full of bold flavor and easy cleanup.
• For something ultra-hearty, check out the Easy Shepherd’s Pie, perfect for feeding a crowd.
• Or go green with the creamy Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you added crushed red pepper or a dollop of ricotta? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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