7 Best Substitutes for Rotel
Need to find a substitute for Rotel? We have 7 great options (including homemade Rotel) for when a recipe calls for Rotel and you’re in a pinch!

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If you’ve ever found yourself halfway through a recipe, only to discover you’re out of Rotel, don’t panic! There are plenty of choices to substitute for Rotel that can save your meal and might even become your new favorite.
Rotel adds a distinctive spicy taste to dishes, but when a can of Rotel is nowhere to be found, you can easily create your own homemade Rotel substitute or use other ingredients from your pantry.
Key Ingredients in Rotel
Knowing the main ingredients in a can of Rotel can help you find the best substitutes. Rotel typically contains:
- Diced tomatoes
- Green chilies
- Salt and spices
These simple ingredients are the foundation of its bold flavor, making it easier to replicate.
Best Substitute for Rotel
Here are some great alternatives to Rotel, including how to create your own substitute at home.
1. Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies
The most straightforward Rotel substitute is combining diced tomatoes and green chilies. You can find these in separate cans at your local grocery store. Mix one can of diced tomatoes with one can of green chilies for a quick and easy swap.
2. Fresh Tomatoes and Green Chilies
For a fresher taste, use fresh tomatoes and green chilies. Dice them into small pieces and mix together. If you want to add a bit more heat, include some hot peppers like jalapeños or serranos. This mix works well in recipes where you want a more natural flavor.
3. Salsa
A jar of chunky salsa can be a great substitute for Rotel. It contains similar ingredients and spices, and you can choose the heat level that suits your taste buds. Use it in queso dip, taco dip, or any other recipe calling for Rotel.
4. Tomato Sauce or Tomato Puree with Green Chilies
Mixing tomato sauce or tomato puree with chopped green chilies can create a smoother Rotel substitute. This combination is perfect for recipes like slow cooker dishes, where a smoother texture is preferable.
5. Tomato Paste and Fresh Peppers
Tomato paste can be another option if you’re looking for a more concentrated tomato flavor. Dilute it slightly with water, then add diced fresh peppers to achieve the desired consistency and heat.
6. Picante Sauce
Picante sauce is another excellent Rotel tomato substitute. It’s similar to salsa but usually smoother. Its bold flavor and medium heat make it a great addition to dips and Mexican dishes.
7. Homemade Rotel
If you want to create your own homemade Rotel, here’s a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or one can of diced tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup chopped green chilies (or one can of green chilies)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (or lemon juice)
Instructions:
1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Adjust spices and lime juice to taste.
3. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
This homemade Rotel can be used in any recipe that calls for a can of Rotel.
Tips for Cooking with Rotel Substitutes
Adjust the Heat Level: Depending on your preference, you can increase or decrease the amount of green chilies or add a touch of hot sauce like Tabasco sauce.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to add your favorite spices to enhance the flavor. Cumin, paprika, and oregano can all add depth.
Use in Various Recipes: Rotel substitutes work well in a variety of dishes, from queso dips and taco dips to slow cooker meals and buffalo chicken dip.
Recipes Using Rotel or Substitutes
Here are some my favorite recipes where you can use these substitutes:
- Mexican cornbread: spice up standard Jiffy cornbread mix with cheese and Rotel
- Rotel Cheese Dip: Mix with Velveeta cheese for a classic party dip.
- Spicy Sausage Pasta: Use sliced sausages and bowtie pasta to make this easy one-pot dish.
- Mexican Restaurant Favorites: Add to slow cooker Mexican chicken for tacos, burritos, and enchiladas or whip up a pot of chicken tortilla soup.
If you try this recipe please comment and rate it below, I love hearing from you!
PrintHomemade Rotel
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 1/2 cups 1x
Description
Homemade Rotel is a great substitute when a recipe called for Rotel diced tomatoes and chiles and you don’t have any on hand.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or one can of diced tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup chopped green chilies (or one can of green chilies)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (or lemon juice)
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Adjust spices and lime juice to taste.
- Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: sauce
- Method: none
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size:
- Calories: 103
- Sugar: 12.3 g
- Sodium: 493.1 mg
- Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 23.3 g
- Fiber: 8.7 g
- Protein: 3.3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg