Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta Casserole

Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta Casserole is a creamy and comforting dish featuring tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and rich, melty Velveeta cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you need a satisfying and family-friendly meal. With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, this cheesy casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
• Cheesy and comforting: Velveeta adds a rich and creamy texture.
• One-dish meal: Includes pasta, protein, and sauce in every bite.
• Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Great for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Casserole

• 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Optional Toppings

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs for crunch

Directions

this recipe

Prepare the Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Beef Mixture

2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Add Vegetables: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Mix in Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes, Rotel, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Make the Cheese Sauce

5. Add Velveeta: Reduce heat to low and add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Casserole

6. Combine with Pasta: Gently fold in the cooked bowtie pasta until everything is well combined.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Top with Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for an extra cheesy finish.

Bake

9. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serve

10. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Use spicy Rotel and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in cooked vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini.
• Mexican-Inspired: Add a packet of taco seasoning and top with crushed tortilla chips.
• Lighter Option: Use ground turkey instead of beef and add a splash of milk to the cheese sauce for a lighter texture.
• Make It a One-Pot Meal: Cook the pasta directly in the skillet with extra broth to save time and dishes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Cover the dish with foil if reheating in the oven to keep it moist. Adding a splash of milk or broth when reheating can also help.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells will work well in this recipe.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients, like Rotel and Velveeta, are gluten-free.

Can I substitute Velveeta with another cheese?

For a similar creaminess, you can use a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar or a homemade cheese sauce.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

Serve with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Add cooked veggies like peas, carrots, broccoli, or corn to increase the nutritional value.

How do I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef, whole wheat pasta, and add more vegetables. You can also reduce the amount of cheese if desired.

What can I use instead of Rotel?

If Rotel is not available, use a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies or add a small can of chopped green chilies to regular diced tomatoes.

Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

Yes, leftover pasta works well in this dish. Just make sure not to overcook the pasta initially to avoid a mushy casserole.

Conclusion

Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that delivers cheesy goodness and hearty flavors in every bite. This easy, family-friendly recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a quick and delicious meal. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and savory beef, this casserole will quickly become a regular on your dinner rotation. Try this recipe and enjoy a warm, comforting dish that everyone will love!

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