Easy Crock Pot Rotel Pasta Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Nothing beats the convenience of a slow cooker when you want a comforting, hearty meal without lots of fuss. This crock pot rotel pasta recipe is one of my favorite go-to dishes for busy weeknights when you want something warm, cheesy, and flavorful waiting for you at dinnertime.

this Recipe

Using simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a creamy pasta dish infused with the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes and just the right amount of cheese. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-off cooking with a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it.
• Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
• Comforting creamy texture with a spicy twist from Rotel tomatoes.
• Feeds a crowd – perfect for families or leftovers.
• Versatile – easily customize with your favorite proteins or veggies.

Ingredients

Gather these everyday ingredients to make your crock pot rotel pasta come to life. It’s a simple list but packs plenty of flavor.

• 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 pound cooked and crumbled Italian sausage (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours on low
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 480 per serving

How to Make Crock Pot Rotel Pasta

1. Start by spraying your crock pot with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Add the uncooked penne pasta, Rotel tomatoes (with liquid), chopped onion, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker. Stir to combine everything evenly.
3. If you’re using cooked Italian sausage, add it to the crock pot and stir it in now. Otherwise, skip this step for a vegetarian-friendly version.
4. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours. At about the 2.5-hour mark, check the pasta for tenderness and stir gently to prevent sticking on the sides.
5. Once the pasta is cooked to your liking and the sauce is creamy, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir well until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is thick and bubbly.
6. Turn off the crock pot and let the pasta sit for 5 minutes before serving to thicken up a bit more.
7. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use penne or another sturdy pasta shape that holds up well in slow cooking.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; check it at 2.5 hours to avoid mushy noodles.
• Add cooked sausage or chicken for extra protein and heartiness.
• Stir the dish once or twice during cooking to prevent pasta from sticking to the sides.
• For a lighter option, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, but expect a slightly thinner sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will thicken as it cools; add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.

For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe without the crock pot?

Yes! You can cook the pasta and sauce on the stovetop in a large skillet or pot. Simmer the ingredients over medium heat, stirring frequently until the pasta is cooked and the sauce thickens, then add the cheese at the end.

What type of Rotel tomatoes should I use?

The classic diced tomatoes with green chilies are perfect because they add just the right amount of spice and flavor. You can choose mild or original depending on your heat preference.

Can I substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some gluten-free pastas cook faster or have different textures.

Is there a vegetarian version of this crock pot rotel pasta?

Yes, simply omit the Italian sausage and consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth keeps it fully vegetarian.