Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

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If you’re dreaming of a rich and comforting dinner that doesn’t take hours to make, this Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara is calling your name. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor—a meal that feels like a warm hug in a skillet. The bowtie pasta captures every bit of the meaty, Velveeta-laced marinara sauce, and the golden, bubbly top adds the perfect touch of indulgence.

Think of it as a fusion of lasagna and cheesy pasta bake, but way easier and faster. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving something savory on a weeknight, this dish delivers on all fronts. It also reheats beautifully, making leftovers just as tempting.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara?

Bowtie pasta (farfalle) is perfect for this recipe because its shape holds onto the creamy sauce in every groove. The ruffled edges and pinch in the center make each bite textured and satisfying. If you don’t have bowties, penne or rotini also work well—just make sure you choose a pasta that can cling to the cheesy marinara.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

Bowtie Pasta: This is the base that holds the sauce beautifully and adds a fun texture to each bite.

Ground Italian Sausage or Ground Beef: The savory, seasoned meat brings heartiness and depth. Use mild or spicy depending on your preference.

Crushed Tomatoes: These give body and tang to the marinara. Go for fire-roasted if you want a smokier profile.

Velveeta Cheese: The secret to that ultra-smooth, creamy texture. It melts effortlessly and blends right into the sauce.

Mozzarella Cheese: For that stretchy, melty topping that gets golden and irresistible in the oven.

Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics that form the flavor base of the sauce.

Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme to tie all the flavors together.

Olive Oil: Used to sauté your aromatics and add richness.

Salt and Pepper: Just enough to enhance everything else.

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How To Make the Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until soft and fragrant—about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Add the ground Italian sausage or beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 5: Stir in Velveeta

Add the Velveeta cheese cubes to the skillet and stir until completely melted into the sauce. You should have a thick, creamy beef marinara.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Fold the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the sauce, ensuring all the pasta is well coated.

Step 7: Top with Mozzarella and Bake

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to a 375°F oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta

This pasta dish is best served hot straight from the oven with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Pair it with garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted green beans for a complete meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer it into an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cheese instead of Velveeta?

Yes, you can substitute with cream cheese or a blend of cheddar and heavy cream, though the texture will be slightly different.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything in the skillet and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it until hot and bubbly.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

You can skip the meat and double the amount of crushed tomatoes or add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this pasta freezes well. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

You can assemble everything in a regular pan and transfer to a baking dish before topping with cheese and baking.

How can I make it spicier?

Use hot Italian sausage, add red pepper flakes, or mix in a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste for a kick.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this creamy Velveeta bowtie bake, you won’t want to miss these other delicious comfort dishes from the blog:

• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta — rich and cozy with a cheesy finish.
• One Skillet Sweet Spicy Sticky Chicken Pasta — a sweet-and-savory flavor bomb.
• One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese — creamy, crispy, and nostalgic all in one.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta — ultra silky and loaded with flavor.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Linguine — perfect for a lighter but flavorful dinner.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go spicy with hot sausage or stick to classic? Maybe added extra veggies?

I love hearing how others put their own twist on my recipes. And if you’re looking for daily inspiration, check out more recipes on my Pinterest: Life with Nina

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