Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles is a creamy, cheesy delight. The Velveeta cheese creates a rich and velvety sauce that coats the tender noodles perfectly. The combination of savory ground beef, cream cheese, and the slight kick from the Rotel tomatoes with chilies adds depth to every bite. The use of bowtie pasta, which holds the sauce exceptionally well, makes each forkful comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s a quick and simple recipe, making it perfect for busy nights when you crave something delicious and hearty.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2.25 pounds ground beef

• 1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened

• 1 big block of Velveeta cheese, cubed

• 1 can cream of chicken soup

• 1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained

• 1 box bowtie noodles (farfalle)

• 1 cup pasta water, reserved to thin the sauce

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie noodles and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once done, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the noodles and set them aside.

2. In a large skillet or saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease.

3. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the softened cream cheese, cubed Velveeta, and cream of chicken soup to the skillet with the beef. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt and the mixture becomes smooth.

4. Stir in the can of undrained Rotel tomatoes with chilies. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

5. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

6. Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, stirring well to coat the noodles in the creamy beef sauce.

7. Once everything is well mixed and heated through, serve the creamy Velveeta beef sauce pasta hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add veggies: You can easily add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Swap the pasta: If you prefer a different type of pasta, feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni for a different twist.

• Spicy version: For more heat, add some extra chopped jalapeños or use a spicier variety of Rotel tomatoes with chilies.

• Make it lighter: Substitute the cream cheese and Velveeta with lighter versions or a reduced-fat cheese blend for a healthier take on this dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

To make this dish spicier, try using a spicier variety of Rotel tomatoes, add fresh jalapeños, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. It will change the flavor slightly but still work great with the creamy sauce.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and beef sauce ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge, and when you're ready to serve, reheat them together on the stove.

What if I don’t have Rotel tomatoes?

You can use any canned diced tomatoes and add a little chopped green chilies or hot sauce to achieve a similar flavor profile.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, if you don’t have Velveeta, you can use other cheeses like cheddar or a cheese blend, but Velveeta offers the smooth, creamy texture that’s ideal for this dish.

Can I freeze this pasta dish?

While the dish can technically be frozen, the creamy texture of the sauce may change upon reheating. If you do freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe uses regular bowtie pasta, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, you can omit the ground beef and add in vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty, meat-free option.

What can I serve with this dish?

This Velveeta Beef Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If you find the sauce too thin, you can let it simmer a little longer to reduce, or add more Velveeta cheese for extra creaminess.

Conclusion

Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines creamy textures with savory flavors. The easy preparation and versatility make it a fantastic option for busy evenings or casual get-togethers. Whether you stick to the original recipe or make a few tweaks, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone's hunger and taste buds.