Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a dream for anyone who loves creamy, cheesy pasta dishes. It has everything you want in a comforting meal – tender bowtie noodles, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce made with Velveeta and cream cheese. The addition of Rotel tomatoes with chilies gives it a nice kick, balancing the richness of the cheese. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, perfect for feeding a family or a group of friends.

Ingredients

2.25 pounds ground beef
1 box bowtie noodles (farfalle)
1 big block of Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained
1 cup pasta water, reserved to thin the sauce

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

Directions

Cook the Pasta:
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.
Cook the Ground Beef:
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.
Make the Sauce:
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.
Add the Rotel:
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.
Adjust Consistency:
Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, stirring well to coat the noodles in the creamy beef sauce.
Serve:
Once everything is well mixed and heated through, serve the creamy Velveeta beef sauce pasta hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add extra chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce mixture for an added kick of heat.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and substitute it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Different Cheeses: Swap out the Velveeta for another melty cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Add Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore the creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute bowtie noodles with any other pasta you prefer, such as penne or rotini.

2. Is this recipe spicy?

The Rotel tomatoes with chilies give the dish a mild spice, but it’s not overwhelmingly hot. You can adjust the spice level by using mild or hot Rotel or adding extra peppers.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving.

4. Can I freeze Velveeta Beef Pasta?

Yes, this dish can be frozen. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and storing it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

5. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

While Velveeta is known for its smooth melting properties, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

6. What can I serve with this dish?

This hearty pasta pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

7. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.

8. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the bowtie pasta with gluten-free pasta.

9. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

If the sauce is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken, or add more cream cheese to reach the desired consistency.

10. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and sure to be a hit with your family or guests. Whether you follow the recipe as is or make a few tweaks to suit your preferences, this dish is guaranteed to be a favorite.