Are you in the mood for something delicious, easy to make, and packed with flavor? Look no further than the Rotel Pasta Recipe! This delightful dish combines the spicy, zesty flavors of Rotel tomatoes with creamy cheese and tender pasta, making it a go-to favorite for busy weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just getting started, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Keep reading for a full guide on how to cook this tasty pasta dish, including tips, substitutions, and presentation ideas. Let’s dive into the world of flavorful pasta, and you’ll want to make Rotel Pasta over and over again!

What is Rotel Pasta?
Rotel Pasta is a hearty, cheesy pasta dish made with Rotel tomatoes, pasta, ground beef or sausage, and a creamy cheese sauce. The combination of Rotel's diced tomatoes and green chilies with a rich, creamy base gives this dish a unique, spicy kick that you can’t get enough of. It’s an easy one-pan meal, perfect for those nights when you want something quick yet satisfying.
Ingredients List for Rotel Pasta
To make the perfect Rotel Pasta, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of pasta (penne, rotini, or macaroni work best)
- 1 can of Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 pound of ground beef or sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken or beef broth
- 8 ounces of cream cheese (cubed and softened)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Fresh cilantro, green onions, or jalapeños
Ingredients List for Rotel Pasta Sauce
The sauce is what makes Rotel Pasta so creamy and delicious. Here’s what you’ll need to make it:
- 1 can of Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 8 ounces of cream cheese (this makes the sauce creamy)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (adds a nice cheesy finish)
- 1 cup of broth (chicken or beef, depending on your preference)
- Spices: Salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin (to taste)
These ingredients will combine to create a thick, rich, and flavorful sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Substitutions and Variations for Rotel Pasta
One of the best things about Rotel Pasta is its versatility. You can easily switch up ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Meat Options: Instead of ground beef or sausage, try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Substitutes: If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use sour cream or heavy cream to achieve a similar creamy texture. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.
- Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, use mild Rotel tomatoes or omit the green chilies altogether. If you like things extra spicy, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Pasta Types: Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, from spaghetti to elbow macaroni. Gluten-free pasta also works well in this recipe if you're avoiding gluten.
- Vegetable Additions: Add more veggies to your dish like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Rotel Pasta

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow this simple step-by-step guide to make the perfect Rotel Pasta:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain excess fat and set the meat aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
4. Add the Rotel and Broth
Pour in the can of Rotel tomatoes (with the juices) and stir in the broth. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Lower the heat and add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and continue to stir until smooth.
6. Combine Everything
Return the cooked meat to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together to make sure the pasta is well-coated in the creamy Rotel sauce.
7. Season and Serve
Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin to taste. Garnish with optional toppings like cilantro, green onions, or jalapeños. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Cook Rotel Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
To break it down further, here’s a quick recap of the key steps to cooking this tasty dish:
- Boil the pasta: Cook your pasta in salted water until al dente.
- Cook the meat: Brown ground beef or sausage in a skillet, then drain.
- Sauté vegetables: Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Make the sauce: Add Rotel tomatoes, broth, and cream cheese to create the sauce.
- Combine everything: Mix the pasta, meat, and sauce together for a hearty, flavorful dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Rotel Pasta
While Rotel Pasta is easy to make, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, and it won’t hold up well when mixed with the sauce.
- Not draining the meat: If you don’t drain the excess fat from the ground beef or sausage, the dish may become greasy.
- Lumpy sauce: To avoid lumps, ensure your cream cheese is softened before adding it to the skillet. Stir constantly while the cheese melts for a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Too much liquid: Be careful not to add too much broth. Start with the recommended amount, and if the sauce seems too thick, you can add more gradually.
Serving and Presentation Tips for Rotel Pasta
The way you serve and present Rotel Pasta can elevate the dining experience, especially if you're hosting guests. Here are some serving tips:
How to Serve Rotel Pasta
- Family Style: Serve Rotel Pasta directly from the skillet in a large, rustic serving dish for a relaxed, family-style meal.
- Individual Portions: For a more formal presentation, plate the pasta in individual bowls and top each serving with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs.
- Pairing: Rotel Pasta pairs well with a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Presentation Ideas for Rotel Pasta
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Cheese Finish: Add an extra layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top and broil for 2-3 minutes to give your dish a bubbly, golden finish.
- Serve in Skillet: Present the dish in the skillet for a rustic, homey look, perfect for casual gatherings or potlucks.
Rotel Pasta Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
- Leftovers: Rotel Pasta makes great leftovers! Store it in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Rotel Pasta without meat?
Yes, you can easily omit the meat and make a vegetarian version of Rotel Pasta. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added texture and flavor.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even gouda for a unique twist on the recipe.
3. How do I make the dish less spicy?
If you're sensitive to spice, use mild Rotel tomatoes, or skip the green chilies. You can also add a bit of sugar to balance out the heat.
4. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! This recipe is easy to double or even triple if you're cooking for a larger group. Just make sure to use a larger skillet or pot to accommodate the extra ingredients.
Conclusion
Rotel Pasta is a quick, easy, and satisfying dish that brings bold flavors to your table. Whether you're whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a party, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its creamy cheese sauce, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and customizable ingredients, it’s a recipe that offers endless possibilities. Now that you have everything you need to know about making Rotel Pasta, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! Trust us, this is one recipe you'll want to make on repeat.
PrintRotel Pasta Recipe
This Rotel pasta recipe is a delicious, cheesy pasta dish made with ground beef, Rotel tomatoes, and a blend of creamy cheeses. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is packed with flavor and super easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have a tasty meal on the table in no time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or elbow)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in Rotel tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Velveeta cubes and heavy cream, stirring until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and mix to combine.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and cook until melted and incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For a spicier kick, use hot Rotel or add red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
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