Creamy Rotel Pasta

Make this quick and creamy Tex-Mex pasta recipe with Rotel tomatoes, ground beef, and cheese. A bold 30-minute dinner your family will love!

My Creamy Rotel Pasta recipe is the weeknight dinner you didn’t know you needed—but once you try it, it’ll earn a spot in your regular rotation. This dish packs a punch of zesty flavor, thanks to the signature kick of Rotel—these iconic diced tomatoes with green chilies have long been a pantry staple in my home.

Combined with tender pasta, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and just the right amount of spice, this dish delivers all the comfort of a classic meal with a Tex-Mex twist. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry family or spicing up your usual dinner routine.

CREAMY ROTEL PASTA

Rotel Pasta is the kind of dish that turns a simple weeknight dinner into something unforgettable. Hearty and full of flavor, this creamy Tex-Mex pasta features seasoned ground beef as the base, adding heartiness to every bite. What makes it truly special is the creamy, spicy sauce that clings to the pasta—bringing all the ingredients together in a way that is ultra delicious. It’s a fast meal that tastes like it took all day but comes together in just 30 minutes!

The ground beef is browned to perfection, then simmered with beef broth, heavy whipping cream, cream cheese, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a luxuriously creamy finish. A bold blend of chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, and black pepper adds layers of smoky depth. The result is a spicy, creamy pasta dish packed with flavor and perfect for feeding the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (10-ounces, each) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
• 5 ounces cream cheese
• 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 Tablespoon water
• 2 cups freshly grated mild cheddar cheese
• Freshly chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
• Sliced jalapeno (optional)

How to Make Creamy Rotel Pasta

Cook the penne pasta until al dente, in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions. Drain water and set aside.

Meanwhile, add the ground beef and diced onion to a large, deep skillet OR large pot. Cook and crumble the ground beef, over medium-high heat, until no longer pink and the onion is soft; about 8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes, beef broth, heavy whipping cream, cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, salt and pepper.

Mix together the cornstarch and water until combined then pour into the sauce.

Bring the mixture to a simmer then reduce heat to medium-low. Continue to stir mixture until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce thickens; about 10 minutes or so. Now, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until everything is fully coated in sauce. Serve warm with garnishes of fresh cilantro and slices of jalapeno, if desired. Enjoy!

Storing and Reheating

Stores well in a covered glass container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in a microwave-safe dish. Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Feel free to add a little liquid (milk or broth) if the pasta is too dry.

⭐️ Holly’s Tips for the Perfect Rotel Pasta:

1. Choose your cheese wisely: While any freshly grated cheese will melt into the sauce, selecting the right kind can elevate the flavor. Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the chilies, while mild or sharp cheddar enhances the creamy, tangy tomato base. For an ultra-smooth texture, consider mixing in some mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

2. Pick your pasta shape with purpose: This recipe calls for penne, but you can easily swap in other short pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle, or elbow macaroni. Just be sure to cook your pasta al dente—firmer pasta holds up better in the creamy sauce and provides a satisfying bite.

3. Brighten it up with toppings: Just before serving, add a finishing touch to balance the richness. Try a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or green onions for freshness, or a squeeze of lime juice for a hint of acidity that cuts through the creaminess and adds a Tex-Mex flair.

Bonus Tip – Make it your own: Feel free to customize the spice level. Add a dash of hot sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, or extra chilies if you love heat. For a milder version, stick with mild Rotel and a neutral cheese blend.

Servings

This recipe serves up to six but can be easily doubled for large parties or crowds.

Similar Recipes

Looking for something similar? Try my Chicken Fajita Pasta.

Looking for something with extra heat? Try my Spicy Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

Not a big on spicy food? My Chicken Ranch Pasta Bake is the perfect place to start.

Are you a fan of Tex Mex? Add my Taco Salad to your list of recipes to try next!

In the mood for something else? My King Ranch Mac and Cheese will become your new favorite comfort food.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE FOR LATER?

PIN IT TO YOUR FAVORITE PINTEREST BOARD!