Rotel Pasta: A Quick and Creamy Southwest-Inspired Dish

Overview

Rotel Pasta combines the creamy comfort of pasta with the bold flavors of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, creating a delicious fusion dish that’s become a popular weeknight favorite. This recipe balances rich dairy with spicy tomatoes for a satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini work well)
  • 2 cans Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Pasta Preparation

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil
  2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente
  3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining

Sauce Preparation

  1. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
  2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes)
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute
  4. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks
  5. Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper
  6. Once beef is browned, drain excess fat if necessary

Combining the Dish

  1. Add both cans of Rotel tomatoes to the beef mixture (do not drain)
  2. Stir in cream cheese cubes until completely melted
  3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet
  4. Mix thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency
  5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted
  6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed

Serving

  1. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired
  2. Additional cheese can be sprinkled on top
  3. Pairs well with garlic bread or a simple side salad

Tips for Success

  • Don’t overcook the pasta; keeping it al dente ensures the best texture
  • Cut cream cheese into small cubes for faster, more even melting
  • If sauce becomes too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water
  • For extra heat, use “Hot” Rotel instead of original
  • For a milder version, drain some liquid from the Rotel before adding

Variations

  • Use Mexican-style cheese blend instead of cheddar
  • Add bell peppers with the onions for extra vegetables
  • Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option
  • Add black beans for extra protein and fiber
  • Stir in corn for sweetness and texture

Storage and Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
  • When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess
  • Stir frequently while reheating to prevent sticking
  • Can be frozen for up to 2 months, though texture may change slightly

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The combination of creamy cheese, spicy tomatoes, and hearty pasta creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit different taste preferences and dietary needs.