Rotel Pasta

Quick, creamy, and packed with bold flavor, Rotel Pasta is a family-friendly weeknight dinner hero. It’s a dish that combines hearty ground beef, spicy-sweet Rotel tomatoes, tender penne pasta, and melty cheddar cheese for a comforting, satisfying meal. Add in some garlic, onion, and optional cream or spice, and you’ve got a Tex-Mex-inspired pasta that’s just as perfect for busy evenings as it is for casual gatherings.

Rotel Pasta is easy to customize, comes together in under 30 minutes, and uses pantry staples — no fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Whether you like it spicy or mild, creamy or cheesy, it’s flexible and forgiving, making it an instant favorite for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Why You’ll Love Rotel Pasta

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Bold flavor: Rotel tomatoes and spices bring a tasty kick.
One-pan option: Cook everything in one skillet for less cleanup.
Family-friendly: Mild enough for kids, easy to spice up for adults.
Creamy and cheesy: Comfort food at its best.
Great leftovers: Reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

12 oz penne pasta – Or your favorite short pasta like rotini or shells.
1 lb ground beef – Ground turkey or chicken also work well.
1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies – Choose mild or hot based on your spice preference.
½ cup onion, chopped – Yellow or white onion adds sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds depth of flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar melts best.
½ cup heavy cream or milk (optional) – For a richer, creamier sauce.
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional) – Adds extra Tex-Mex flavor.
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is best.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Brown the ground beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef.
- Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink (about 6–8 minutes).
- Drain excess fat if needed.
Sauté onion and garlic:
- Add chopped onion to the skillet with the beef.
- Sauté for 2–3 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Rotel and seasoning:
- Pour in the can of Rotel (undrained).
- Stir in chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the mixture for 5–7 minutes to let flavors meld and liquid reduce slightly.
Add cream (optional):
- Stir in the heavy cream or milk if you want a creamier sauce.
- Simmer for 2 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add cheese:
- Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
Combine with pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet.
- Toss well to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
- Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve:
- Spoon into bowls and top with extra cheese, chopped parsley, or green onions if desired.
- Serve hot!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve with: Garlic bread, side salad, or roasted veggies.
To store: Let cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat: Microwave individual portions or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Helpful Notes

Spice it up: Use hot Rotel, add cayenne, or stir in diced jalapeños.
Mild version: Use mild Rotel and omit chili powder for a kid-friendly option.
Add veggies: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or corn for extra nutrition.
Change the cheese: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend.
Make it one-pot: Boil pasta first, drain, and reuse the same pan for the beef and sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the full dish, cool it, and refrigerate. Reheat with a little extra cream or broth to keep it moist.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Rotini, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni all work great.
Is this dish spicy?
It can be! Use mild Rotel and skip the chili powder if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes — this dish pairs well with bell peppers, corn, or chopped spinach.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Use milk, half-and-half, or even a spoonful of sour cream for creaminess.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes — substitute the beef with plant-based meat or black beans.

Final Thoughts

This easy, satisfying Rotel Pasta is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavor and cozy, comforting meals. It’s versatile, affordable, and incredibly tasty, with just the right amount of spice and cheesiness to make it unforgettable. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe that checks all the boxes.

Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your dinner rotation. Be sure to snap a photo and tag your version — I’d love to see how you make it your own! 🍝🌶️🧀