Rotel pasta is a simple, one-pot meal made with pasta, ground meat (typically beef or turkey), cheese, and a can of Rotel, that iconic blend of diced tomatoes and green chillies. It’s rich, spicy, creamy, and comforting.
You’ll find versions of this dish floating around under different names, such as Tex-Mex pasta, spicy cheesy pasta, or even “lazy taco pasta.” But at its heart, this dish is all about easy ingredients, big flavours, and minimal cleanup.
There’s something about Rotel pasta that instantly brings comfort and a little kick to the dinner table. The first time I tried it, I was amazed by how a simple can of Rotel tomatoes and green chillies could transform a basic pasta dish into a creamy, zesty, and crowd-pleasing meal.
I’m going to share the recipe I use to make this pasta with you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make the best pasta rotel dish
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne, rotini, or elbow pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 can Rotel (original or hot – your spice level, your call)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning (or chili powder + cumin)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Sour cream
- Diced jalapeños
- Crushed tortilla chips
Pro Tip from Chef Rachael Ray: “Use pasta water to loosen the sauce instead of more milk, it keeps the flavour concentrated and creamy.”
How to Make Rotel Pasta – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente; reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet or pot, sauté the diced onion in a small amount of oil until it is soft. Add garlic, then ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add Rotel & Spices
Stir in Rotel (don’t drain), taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavours mingle.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Goodness
Lower the heat and add cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and milk. Stir until the mixture is melted into a creamy sauce. Add the pasta and toss to coat, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired creaminess.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or crushed chips. Serve hot and enjoy the Tex-Mex cheesy goodness!
Pro Tip from Chef Trisha Yearwood: “For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of sour cream right before serving, which makes the sauce velvety and smooth.”
What to Serve with Rotel Pasta
Pair this bold pasta dish with sides that balance the creaminess and spice:
- Green Salad – Light vinaigrette adds freshness
- Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette – Perfect for scooping up extra sauce
- Mexican Street Corn – Sweet and savoury contrast
- Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans – Adds colour and nutrients.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade –A Refreshing drink to cool off in the heat
Customizations & Variations
- Add Bacon – For smoky flavour and crunch.
- Add Corn or Black Beans – To make it more filling.
- Use Shredded Chicken – Great way to use leftovers.
- Make It Vegetarian – Skip the meat and use sautéed mushrooms.
- Go Extra Cheesy – Add Velveeta or Pepper Jack for more depth.
Final Thoughts
Rotel pasta is my go-to when time is short, but I want something comforting, flavorful, and filling. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy picky eaters, spice lovers, and even leftovers-haters.
This pasta is warm and cheesy with just enough spice to keep things interesting. It’s a dish I’ve made for late-night study sessions, busy workdays.
I hope you enjoyed this recipe. Give it a try at home, enjoy it with your loved ones, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments!
FAQS
Q1: What is Rotel pasta?
Rotel pasta is a dish made by combining cooked pasta with Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chillies), often mixed with cheese, ground meat, or creamy sauces.
Q2: What is Rotel made of?
Rotel is a canned mix of diced tomatoes and green chillies, commonly used to add flavour and heat to dishes.
Q3: What is rotelle pasta used for?
Rotelle pasta, also known as “wagon wheel” pasta, is used in casseroles, pasta salads, and hearty sauces because it holds sauce well in its spokes.
Q4: Can you use Rotel in pasta sauce?
Yes, Rotel can be used in pasta sauce to add a spicy, tangy kick and enhance the overall flavour.
