Bowtie Pasta with Velveeta and Italian Beef Marinara

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If you crave comfort food that hits the spot with every bite, this Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara is just what you need. It combines the nostalgia of Velveeta’s creamy texture with the bold, savory richness of homemade Italian-style marinara loaded with seasoned beef. This pasta dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, Sunday family meals, or even make-ahead lunches.

The luscious cheese sauce wraps each bowtie in silky smooth goodness, while the hearty beef marinara infuses the dish with deep umami flavor. Add a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh herbs, and you’ve got a meal that’s satisfying, comforting, and downright delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

This dish is the definition of indulgent comfort food. It’s:

• Quick and easy to make.
• Family-friendly and picky-eater approved.
• Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Hearty thanks to the flavorful beef sauce.
• Perfect for meal prep or weeknight leftovers.

Whether you’re a pasta lover or a cheese fanatic, this recipe delivers big time.

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What Kind of Bowtie Pasta Should I Use?

Go for classic farfalle, also known as bowtie pasta. Its pinched center and wide, ruffled edges make it perfect for catching both creamy cheese and beefy marinara in every bite. You can use regular, whole wheat, or even gluten-free versions based on your preference. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

This dish combines pantry staples with bold flavors, creating something that’s both simple and luxurious. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:

• Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): The perfect pasta shape for grabbing onto the creamy sauce and beefy bits in every bite.
• Ground Beef: Adds hearty richness and satisfying protein to the marinara base.
• Yellow Onion: Brings depth and subtle sweetness to the beef sauce.
• Garlic: Essential for that aromatic Italian flair in the marinara.
• Crushed Tomatoes: The backbone of the marinara sauce; rich, tangy, and full-bodied.
• Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to build that classic Italian flavor.
• Velveeta Cheese: The star ingredient for that creamy, melty, dreamy texture.
• Milk: Helps smooth out the cheese sauce and keep it luscious.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning that sharpens and balances the dish.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil (optional): For a pop of color and fresh finish.

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

Let’s walk through this recipe step-by-step to get that ultimate comfort food on your plate.

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Beef Base

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat. Add garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Marinara

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.

Step 4: Melt the Velveeta

In a separate saucepan, combine cubed Velveeta with milk over low heat. Stir frequently until the cheese has completely melted into a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with beef marinara. Gently fold in the melted Velveeta cheese sauce until everything is thoroughly coated. Let it all warm together for 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Plate up with a sprinkle of grated parmesan and chopped parsley or basil. Serve warm and cheesy!

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How to Serve and Store This Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone but also flexible for serving with sides. It makes a wonderful weeknight meal and is ideal for entertaining guests with minimal effort.

Serving Size: This recipe comfortably feeds 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes. Serve it fresh from the stovetop while the cheese is gooey and the sauce is bubbling.

Storing Leftovers: Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk before microwaving or warming on the stovetop to keep the sauce creamy.

Freezing Tip: While Velveeta can separate slightly when frozen, you can still freeze this pasta. Store in freezer-safe containers and reheat with extra cheese and milk to revive that creamy texture.

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What to Serve With Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta?

Want to round out your meal with some delicious pairings? Here are our favorite sides to serve with this cheesy pasta masterpiece:

Garlic Bread

A classic sidekick. The crunchy exterior and soft, buttery center are perfect for soaking up extra marinara.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted florets seasoned with garlic and olive oil add balance and a nutritious bite.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze lighten up the meal beautifully.

Sauteed Green Beans

Tossed in garlic butter or lemon zest, these are a crisp and flavorful side option.

Cheesy Breadsticks

If you’re doubling down on cheese, these gooey breadsticks are a must.

Antipasto Skewers

Skewered meats, olives, cheeses, and peppers make a fun and savory appetizer or side.

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Want More Pasta Ideas Bursting with Comfort?

If this Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara made your taste buds sing, then you’ll definitely want to try more hearty and satisfying pasta favorites:

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a rich, indulgent twist.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna if you’re in the mood for seafood layers of flavor.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce when you want a beefy, cheesy hit.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for one-pan ease and serious satisfaction.
• Creamy Beef and Shells with a similar cozy vibe and cheesy depth.

Your dinner table will never be boring again with these crave-worthy dishes!

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra heat? Maybe mixed in some spinach or mushrooms? I love hearing your delicious twists.

Explore beautifully curated comfort dishes and feel-good dinners on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and find your next weeknight winner!

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