Rotel Pasta Recipe: A Creamy, Spicy Delight You Can’t Resist!

Total Time: 35 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Creamy Rich Flavor!
Rotel Pasta Recipe pinit

Looking for a quick, creamy, and utterly delicious pasta dish that packs a little heat? This Rotel Pasta Recipe is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy kick! Perfectly cooked pasta is smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce made with Rotel tomatoes, ground beef, and velvety cream cheese, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s easy to whip up on busy weeknights. If you love bold flavors, cheesy goodness, and effortless cooking, this dish is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Rotel Pasta Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Made in just 30 minutes, perfect for a last-minute meal.
  • Bold & Spicy: The combination of Rotel tomatoes and taco seasoning creates a zesty kick.
  • Creamy & Cheesy: A luscious, cheesy sauce binds everything together for a rich texture.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish.
  • Versatile: Easily customize it with different proteins, cheeses, or vegetables.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make  Rotel Pasta 

Here’s everything you need to make this Rotel Pasta Recipe:

Pasta & Protein:

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter option)

Sauce & Seasoning:

  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (mild, original, or hot)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp taco seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 cup black beans or corn for extra texture
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños for extra heat

Pro Tips for the Perfect Rotel Pasta Recipe

  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook until al dente since it will absorb some of the sauce.
  • Melt Cheese Gradually: Stir in cheese slowly to prevent clumping.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
  • Add a Protein Boost: Swap ground beef for shredded chicken, sausage, or shrimp for a twist.
  • Make It Creamier: Stir in a spoonful of sour cream for extra richness.

How to Make a Rotel Pasta Recipe?

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

  1. In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef, cook until browned, and drain excess grease.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

  1. Stir in Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, heavy cream, and broth.
  2. Add garlic powder, onion powder, taco seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Simmer on low heat until cream cheese melts and sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well.
  2. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt completely.
  3. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the sauce coats every bite.
  4. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Try This Rotel Pasta Recipe Today!

Whether you’re craving a quick dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a creamy pasta dish with a kick, this Rotel Pasta Recipe is the perfect choice! Gather your ingredients and get cooking now—you won’t regret it!

Rotel Pasta Recipe: A Creamy, Spicy Delight You Can’t Resist!

"Spice up your dinner with this creamy and cheesy Rotel pasta recipe, made with zesty tomatoes, tender pasta, and savory ground beef. Quick, easy, and full of flavor—perfect for a busy weeknight meal!"

Rotel Pasta Recipe
Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 35 mins Difficulty: Beginner Cooking Temp: 375  F Estimated Cost: $ 4 Calories: 520 Best Season: Winter, Fall

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
  4. Add ground beef, cook until browned, and drain excess grease.
  5. Stir in Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, heavy cream, and broth.
  6. Add garlic powder, onion powder, taco seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  7. Simmer on low heat until cream cheese melts and sauce thickens.
  8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well.
  9. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt completely.
  10. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the sauce coats every bite.
  11. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1


Amount Per Serving
Calories 520kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 27g42%
Sodium 680mg29%
Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Protein 25g50%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I Make This Recipe Without Meat?

Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles or add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Yes! While cheddar cheese is a classic, you can use pepper jack, Colby, or even Velveeta for a smoother sauce.

Can I Make Rotel Pasta Ahead of Time?

Yes! Cook and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Olivia Carter

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Olivia Carter is a passionate home chef with over 10 years of experience in crafting heartwarming, family-friendly meals. From hearty stews to homemade bread, she specializes in easy-to-follow, comforting recipes that bring people together. Olivia believes that good food should be simple, delicious, and made with love. When she’s not in the kitchen, she enjoys gardening and sourcing farm-fresh ingredients for her dishes.

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