Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta

This velveeta beef pasta combines tender bowtie noodles with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and seasoned ground beef for a hearty meal that comes together in just 40 minutes. The combination of Velveeta and cream cheese creates an irresistibly smooth texture while Rotel adds the perfect kick of flavor.

I created this recipe when my sister's four hungry teenagers showed up unexpectedly for dinner. Years later, it remains our go-to comfort meal for busy weeknights when everyone needs something satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

• 2.25 pounds ground beef: provides the hearty protein base try selecting 80/20 for best flavor
• 8 oz block cream cheese: softened adds tangy creaminess
• Large block Velveeta cheese: cubed creates that signature smooth melty texture
• 1 can cream of chicken soup: acts as a flavor enhancer and thickening agent
• 1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies: undrained brings the perfect balance of acidity and heat
• 1 box bowtie noodles: holds sauce beautifully in all the crevices
• 1 cup reserved pasta water: crucial for achieving the perfect sauce consistency

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Cook bowtie noodles according to package directions until just al dente about 10 minutes. Be sure to reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining this is your secret weapon for the perfect sauce consistency.

Brown the Beef:

In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven brown the ground beef over medium heat until no pink remains about 7 to 8 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it into even crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease thoroughly to prevent a greasy final dish.

Create the Cheese Sauce:

Reduce heat to medium-low to prevent scorching then add the softened cream cheese Velveeta cubes and cream of chicken soup to the browned beef. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes until everything melts together into a gloriously smooth and creamy mixture. The constant stirring prevents cheese from sticking to the bottom and burning.

Add Flavor and Spice:

Stir in the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies distributing them evenly throughout the mixture. Allow everything to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes which helps the flavors meld together beautifully. The tomato juices will slightly thin the sauce while adding bright acidity.

Perfect the Consistency:

Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time stirring continuously until you reach your ideal sauce consistency. Some prefer a thicker sauce while others like it more fluid add just enough to coat the back of a spoon without being watery.

Combine and Serve:

Gently fold in the cooked bowtie pasta making sure every noodle gets thoroughly coated in the creamy beef sauce. Let everything come together over low heat for just a minute or two before serving piping hot.

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The Velveeta is truly the star ingredient here. While some might call it a processed cheese product I consider it liquid gold for family recipes. The way it melts creates a silky texture that other cheeses simply cannot match especially when combined with the tangy cream cheese.

Storing Leftovers

This pasta dish actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop further. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating add a splash of milk or water to rejuvenate the sauce as it tends to thicken when chilled. Microwave in short intervals stirring between each until heated through or warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.

Smart Substitutions

If you prefer a different protein ground turkey or Italian sausage work beautifully in place of beef. For a vegetable boost consider adding finely diced bell peppers spinach or mushrooms when browning the meat. Pepper jack cheese can replace part of the Velveeta for an extra spicy kick while regular diced tomatoes can substitute for Rotel if cooking for sensitive palates. Any short pasta shape will work but bowties really do hold the sauce exceptionally well.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty pasta dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread makes an excellent side for sopping up any extra cheese sauce. For a complete meal consider serving smaller portions as a side with rotisserie chicken or roasted vegetables. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds brightness and color to the finished dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute bowtie pasta with another type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with other short pasta types like penne, fusilli, or macaroni. Just ensure to cook it to al dente texture for the best flavor and bite.

→ Is there a lighter alternative to Velveeta cheese?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cheese or a homemade cheese sauce made with skim milk and shredded cheese instead of Velveeta.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, spinach, or peas would make great additions to the dish, adding both color and nutrition.

→ What can I use instead of Rotel tomatoes?

If Rotel tomatoes aren't available, you can use a can of diced tomatoes and add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced green chilies for a similar flavor.

→ How can I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

To reheat, warm the pasta on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.