Indulge in a comforting bowl of bowtie pasta smothered in a rich, creamy Velveeta cheese sauce with savory ground beef and tender tomatoes. This dish brings together the best of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty flavors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner for the whole family. The smooth, velvety sauce coats each piece of pasta, while the seasoned beef adds a satisfying, savory depth to every bite.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, this creamy Velveeta beef pasta is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients for Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce

12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 cup heavy cream or milk
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes

Sprinkle the cooked beef with paprika, black pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, mixing well to combine all the flavors. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Melt the Velveeta Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream or milk and stir continuously until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the cheesy beef sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to help loosen up the sauce, as it thickens when cooled. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or warm it up on the stovetop over low heat.

For freezing, transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Serving size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)

Calories: ~520 kcal
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 780mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While bowtie pasta works great, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or any short pasta shape.

2. What can I use instead of Velveeta?

If you prefer, swap Velveeta with shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a homemade cheese sauce made with heavy cream and melted cheese.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add extra heat, use hot Rotel tomatoes, sprinkle in red pepper flakes, or stir in a little cayenne pepper.

4. Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works just as well as beef, making it a lighter option.

5. Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

You can use whole wheat pasta, lean ground beef, and light cream or milk to reduce calories and fat content.

6. Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would be great additions. Simply sauté them with the onions before adding the beef.

7. What side dishes pair well with this meal?

This pasta goes well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

8. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, store the sauce separately from the pasta and mix them together when reheating.