Velveeta Rotel Mac and Cheese brings together the creamy goodness of Velveeta cheese and the zesty flavor of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies. This classic casserole is incredibly simple to make.
Why You'll Love This Rotel Velveeta Mac and Cheese Recipe
Velveeta Rotel Mac and Cheese is a quick and easy meal that's sure to satisfy your cravings. This cheesy, spicy dish is made with creamy Velveeta cheese and spicy Rotel tomatoes, making it a delicious and comforting dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal. Here's why you'll love it:
- Easy to make: This dish comes together in just a few minutes, making it a great option when you're short on time.
- Comforting: The creamy, cheesy sauce is sure to warm you up and make you feel good.
- Spicy and satisfying: The Rotel tomatoes add a nice kick of spice, making this dish even more satisfying.
Ingredients Overview
This dish is a nostalgic favorite that brings back warm memories of childhood. Feel free to add your favorite toppings or mix-ins to personalize this mac and cheese.
- Butter
- Flour
- Milk
- Velveeta - cubed
- Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- Elbow macaroni - prepared according to package directions
- Grated sharp Cheddar cheese
Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How To Make Rotel Mac and Cheese
With just a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you can whip up this cheesy mac and cheese masterpiece in no time. Whether you're craving a weeknight dinner or a cozy game-day snack, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Prepare The Cheese Sauce
Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Prepare 8 oz of elbow macaroni according to the package directions, drain, and set aside while making the cheese sauce.
Pro Tip
Cook the macaroni according to package directions for al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the final dish.
Step 2: Heat the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. When melted, add the flour and stir to mix. Continue cooking until the mixture begins to bubble. Add the milk and whisk until just combined. Bring the mixture to a boil and continue cooking until thickened, around three minutes.
Step 3: Remove the pan from the heat and add the Velveeta. Stir until melted.
Step 4: Add the Rotel and pasta and stir to mix well.
Step 5: Pour the pasta into the prepared baking dish and top with sharp cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Bake for 30 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese before baking.
Velveeta Mac and Cheese Serving Suggestions
Velveeta Rotel Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other dishes. Serve as a main course with a side salad or grilled chicken. Enjoy as a comforting side dish alongside grilled steak or roasted vegetables.
Substitutions and Variations
Here are a few delicious variations or substitutions when making this mac and cheese recipe.
- Experiment with different toppings like crushed crackers, Panko bread crumbs, or crushed chips or corn flakes.
- Incorporate additional ingredients like cooked bacon or chopped hamfor a more substantial meal.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Colby, for a different topping flavor profile.
Storage Options
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave,
- To freeze, let the mac and cheese cool completely before transferring to an airtight freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips for making this macaroni and cheese recipe:
- Stir the mixture constantly while melting the Velveeta cheese to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Don't over cook the elbow macaroni.
Related Recipes
- Panera's Tomato Soup
- San Giorgio Baked Ziti (Meatless Box Recipe)
- Chicken and Dumplings
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can make this recipe entirely on the stovetop by combining all the ingredients in a saucepan and cooking over low heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly. Serve on plates and top with crisp toasted breadcrumbs.
While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other types of pasta such as shells, rotini, or penne.
Rotel now makes a MILD version of their tomatoes and green chilies, perfect if you prefer less heat!
More Casserole Recipes
Get The Recipe!
Easy Velveeta Rotel Mac and Cheese
Equipment
- Pasta Cook Pot with Strainer
- 9x13 Baking Pan
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk
- ½ pound Velveeta cubed
- 1 10- ounce Rotel drained
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni prepared according to package directions
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Prepare 8 oz of elbow macaroni according to the package directions, drain, and set aside while making the cheese sauce.
- Heat the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. When melted, add the flour and stir to mix. Continue cooking until the mixture begins to bubble.
- Add the milk and whisk until just combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and continue cooking until thickened, around three minutes.
- Remove the pan from the heat and add the Velveeta. Stir until melted.
- Add the Rotel and pasta and stir to mix.
- Pour the pasta into the prepared baking dish and top with sharp cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted.
Video
Notes
- Stir the mixture constantly while melting the Velveeta cheese to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Don't over cook the elbow macaroni.
Kelly Bloom says
If you love Velveeta in mac and cheese, than you will LOVE this recipe.