This Easy Rotel Pasta brings a fun twist to dinner with its creamy cheese sauce and zesty Rotel tomatoes. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!
I love how quick it is to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top, and you’ll be in cheesy heaven! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is a classic choice, but feel free to swap it for any pasta you love—penne, shells, or even gluten-free pasta work great too!
Rotel Diced Tomatoes: The star of the dish! If you want a milder flavor, try using plain diced tomatoes with green chilies or even regular diced tomatoes and add a sprinkle of chili powder.
Cheeses: Cheddar adds a lovely sharpness, but you can mix it up! Try using Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend for different flavors. For a vegan option, substitute with plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk gives the best creaminess, but almond milk or oat milk are good dairy-free alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter version.
How Do I Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky, but it’s all about the technique. Start by making a roux with butter and flour. Cook it briefly to eliminate any floury taste, then add milk slowly while whisking.
- Keep the heat at medium to ensure the mixture thickens without burning.
- Whisk constantly as you add the milk to prevent lumps. If lumps do start to form, keep whisking or switch to a whisk to help break them up.
- Once your sauce is smooth, gradually mix in the cheese until it’s melted and creamy.
Patience is key here, so take your time and enjoy the process!
Easy Rotel Pasta with Creamy Cheese Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. With a quick cook time for the pasta and a speedy cheese sauce preparation, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy meal ready before you know it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually around 7-9 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, making sure it’s nice and ready to soak up that creamy sauce!
2. Make the Roux:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over it and whisk briskly for about 1 minute to form a roux. This will help thicken your cheese sauce!
3. Create the Cheese Sauce:
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to keep the mixture smooth. Continue to cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. Be patient, and make sure to keep stirring!
4. Add the Cream Cheese:
Turn the heat down to low and stir in the softened cream cheese. Keep mixing until it’s fully melted and blended into the sauce for a rich creaminess.
5. Stir in the Cheddar Cheese:
Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir until it’s completely melted and your sauce is wonderfully cheesy!
6. Mix in the Rotel:
Next, add the undrained Rotel diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir everything together and let it heat through for about 2-3 minutes. The flavors will combine beautifully!
7. Combine with Pasta:
Pour the creamy cheese and Rotel sauce over the drained pasta. Mix well to coat every piece evenly with that delicious cheesy goodness.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped green onions or fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the pasta warm, and enjoy your scrumptious meal!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Rotel pasta, perfect for a comforting dinner!
FAQ for Easy Rotel Pasta with Creamy Cheese Sauce
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorites. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
What Can I Use Instead of Rotel Tomatoes?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use regular diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes mixed with a bit of chili powder. You could also add diced bell peppers or a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave in short intervals or warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them before serving. Just add a splash of milk when reheating to bring back the creaminess!