Turn up the heat on comfort food with this spicy shells and cheese recipe! Creamy Velveeta and a kick of spice make it a bold twist on a classic favorite.
Summer is here, school’s out, and I’m trying to settle into a new house—so yes, life is officially chaos.
When things get hectic (read: every single day right now), quick and easy meals become my best friend.
One of our tried-and-true favorites? Velveeta Shells and Cheese. It’s creamy, comforting, and always a hit.
This time, I gave it a spicy twist that takes the flavor up a notch without adding any extra fuss.
Jump to:
Spicy Velveeta Shells and Cheese
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 box Velveeta Shells and Cheese 12 ounce
- 10 ounce Hot Rotel drained
Instructions
- Boil 6 cups water.
- Stir in Shell macaroni.
- Boil 10 to 12 minutes or to desired tenderness, stirring occasionally.
- DRAIN: Do not rinse. Return to pan.
- Cut off top edge of Velveeta Cheese Sauce Pouch.
- Squeeze Cheese Sauce over hot macaroni.
- Pour in desired amount of Rotel.
- Stir and Serve.
Nutrition
How to Store Leftovers
If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheat the pasta shells in the microwave using 30-second intervals.
Final Thoughts
This recipe is so easy to make and absolutely delish!
This spicy mac and cheese is a great side dish for grilled steak or a quick lunch for one. However you make it, you'll be glad you did.
You can also adjust the spice levels by using different Rotel flavors. If you like a milder spice, try the Rotel Mild.
More Quick and Easy Recipes
The best recipes don't require a lot of ingredients and are quick to make. Here are a few of my favorites.
Patricia Cook
What a great post, Katie!! This is a wonderful way to make shells and cheese more grown-up. And your pics are pretty fab too!!
Katie
Thanks so much Patricia!
Sarah @ Alderberry Hill
Oh how yummy, this looks amazing...Thanks for this post, I forgot how much I like Velveeta!
Katie
Thanks Sarah! You can never go wrong with Velveeta! ; )
Erin @ DIY on the Cheap
Yum! We are all mac n cheese lovers in this house and that looks so good!
Katie
Mac and cheese is a must with my kids... can't complain, it's so easy! : )
Cheryl
YUM!!! Seriously...we eat Velveeta at least once a week here and adding Rotel is just genius! Thanks for the great idea!
bonnie@uncommon designs
What a great twist on a classic!
Morena
My kids would love this!
Amy Anderson
This is brilliant - I love Rotel tomatoes!
Tonia@thegunnysack
My kids love Velveeta Mac 'N Cheese! My son puts crushed saltine crackers on his.
Melissa Cantrell
I make this too; however, I don't drain the Rotel & I slice Beef Smoked Sausage. It's a complete meal & a family favorite.
Melanie
Made it and loved it. Thank you for the idea. Delicious and easy week night side.