
This creamy, cheesy Rotel Spaghetti delivers all the comfort you crave with just the right amount of spicy kick. Tender noodles get coated in a velvety, bold cheese sauce with seasoned beef and the unmistakable zing from Rotel tomatoes. It is my go-to recipe when I need something fast, family-pleasing, and a little out-of-the-box.
The first time I made this, my kids licked their plates clean and asked for seconds. Now it’s a must-make every time I am craving an easy comfort meal.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti noodles: perfect for soaking up all that luscious cheese sauce opt for regular or whole wheat for extra fiber
- Ground beef: gives the dish richness and body try to pick one with a little fat for flavor or swap with sausage for extra zest
- Rotel tomatoes: provide bright flavor and a gentle kick choose your preferred spice level when shopping
- Yellow onion: becomes sweet and aromatic as it cooks building a sturdy flavor base
- Bell pepper: adds color freshness and a little sweetness look for firm glossy peppers
- Taco seasoning: infuses everything with smoky boldness try to use a good-quality blend without too much salt
- Velveeta cheese: melts down ultra-creamy for that classic texture use freshly cubed for best results
- Chicken broth: thins the sauce while keeping it silky low-sodium is best so you can control the salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the noodles according to the package directions until just al dente this ensures they will not get mushy later Drain well and set aside but toss with a little oil if needed to keep from sticking
- Brown the Beef and Veggies:
- In a roomy skillet over medium-high heat cook the ground beef with diced onion and bell pepper Stir regularly breaking the meat apart until no pink remains and the veggies are softened about seven minutes Drain away any grease
- Season the Mixture:
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir to coat everything evenly Allow it to cook for another minute to wake up the spices and ensure rich flavor throughout
- Melt the Cheese Sauce:
- Add the Rotel tomatoes undrained chicken broth and cubes of Velveeta Stir everything together and reduce the heat to medium-low Keep stirring as the cheese melts into a smooth glossy sauce that coats all the beef and veggies
- Combine and Toss:
- Add the reserved cooked spaghetti to the skillet and use tongs to toss so every strand is blanketed in creamy sauce Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt or pepper if needed
- Serve Hot:
- Dish up the Rotel Spaghetti while it is velvety and hot Spoon extra sauce over each helping and serve right away for best texture and flavor

Rotel tomatoes are my favorite secret ingredient in this dish Their blend of tomatoes and chilies adds so much flavor that even picky eaters get excited for pasta night I love watching my family gather around the table as the cheese pulls stretch from pan to plate
Storage Tips
Rotel Spaghetti stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Warm it gently over low heat adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen up the sauce Do not boil or the cheese may separate
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily use ground turkey or chicken if you want to lighten up the dish For a vegetarian twist try plant-based crumbles or skip the meat entirely Rotini penne or even gluten-free noodles will work great for different textures and dietary needs
Serving Suggestions
Top with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or extra shredded cheese if you want more color and richness A simple green salad or steamed broccoli on the side balances the meal beautifully If you are feeling bold serve with a dash of hot sauce or pickled jalapeños

Cultural Context
Rotel Spaghetti blends Tex-Mex flair with classic American comfort food It is rooted in Southern kitchens where convenience and big flavors win the day The dish captures the spirit of weeknight creativity using familiar grocery staples in a clever new way
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well and hold the creamy cheese sauce just as nicely as spaghetti.
- → How spicy is this dish?
It has a gentle kick from the Rotel tomatoes, but you can adjust the heat with mild or hot Rotel, or add a bit of cayenne for extra spice.
- → What cheese alternatives can I use?
You can swap in any melty cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, if Velveeta is not available or preferred.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Chicken or sausage are great alternatives, each offering a slightly different flavor profile.
- → How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm over low heat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, prepare in advance, and store in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently for best results.