Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta is a creamy, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a family-friendly dinner. The combination of tender ground beef, smooth Velveeta cheese, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta creates a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The rich, velvety cheese sauce clings to the pasta, while the seasoned beef adds a savory depth that’s hard to resist. This recipe is quick to make and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel), drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, set it aside, and reserve a small cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, push it to one side of the skillet and add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Beef, Tomatoes, and Seasonings
Stir the beef back into the onions and garlic. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato paste, paprika, chili powder (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine everything and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Make the Velveeta Cheese Sauce
Add the cubed Velveeta cheese and beef broth to the skillet. Stir frequently over medium-low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a bit of reserved pasta water or additional beef broth.
Step 6: Toss with Pasta
Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve the Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta hot, and enjoy its cheesy, beefy goodness.
Conclusion:
Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta is a perfect one-pan meal that offers the ultimate comfort food experience. The cheesy sauce, spiced beef, and tender pasta combine to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s a versatile recipe too, allowing for easy substitutions and additions like extra vegetables or different seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or something to satisfy a crowd, this hearty, cheesy pasta dish is a winner every time!