Name: Creamy Velveeta Beef & Bowtie Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2.25 pounds ground beef; 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened; 1 large block Velveeta cheese, cubed; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained; 1 box bowtie noodles (farfalle); 1 cup reserved pasta water, for thinning the sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Velveeta Beef & Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich, cheesy flavors with hearty ground beef and tender bowtie noodles. This dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of Velveeta and cream cheese creates a velvety sauce that coats every bite, while the addition of Rotel tomatoes with chilies adds a subtle kick. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

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 cream cheese, softened
1 large block Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained
1 box bowtie noodles (farfalle)
1 cup reserved pasta water, for thinning the sauce

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie noodles and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. Drain the noodles and set aside.
Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or deep saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Break it into small pieces and stir occasionally. Once fully browned, drain off any excess grease.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the softened cream cheese, cubed Velveeta, and the can of cream of chicken soup to the beef. Stir constantly until everything melts together into a creamy, cheesy sauce.
Add Rotel Tomatoes: Pour in the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. This gives the Velveeta beef pasta its slightly tangy kick and deepens the flavor of the sauce.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie noodles to the skillet. Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess. Stir until the pasta is well coated with the cheese sauce.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Use hot Rotel or add cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers.
Alternative Pasta: Try elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini in place of bowtie pasta.
Taco Twist: Season the beef with taco seasoning and top with crushed tortilla chips before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta?

Yes. While Velveeta gives this beef pasta its signature creamy texture, you can use American cheese or cheddar blended with milk for a similar result.

Can I make this Velveeta beef pasta in advance?

Definitely. It’s great for meal prep. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water, milk, or broth to loosen the sauce.

What can I use instead of bowtie pasta?

Any short pasta like penne, shells, or rotini will work well and hold the sauce nicely.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming lumpy?

Keep the heat low and stir constantly while melting the cheese. Adding the cheese gradually can also help achieve a smooth sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes. Substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein or additional vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a vegetarian option.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or shells.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or use spicy Rotel tomatoes to increase the heat level.

What can I serve with this pasta?

Pair this dish with a crisp garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Velveeta Beef & Bowtie Pasta is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its rich, cheesy sauce and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own. Enjoy!