Name: Creamy Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 tsp paprika or chili powder (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Creamy Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles is the ultimate weeknight comfort food. I love how it comes together quickly with just a few ingredients, but tastes like something that’s been simmering all day. It’s creamy, cheesy, beefy, and always satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and packed with flavor. The Velveeta melts down into a silky sauce that clings to every noodle, and the ground beef adds hearty substance. Bowtie pasta makes it fun and just a little fancy. It’s the kind of meal I crave when I want something fast, filling, and delicious. Creamy Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bowtie (farfalle) pasta
Ground beef
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Velveeta cheese, cubed
Milk
Canned diced tomatoes (optional)
Salt and pepper
Paprika or chili powder (optional for extra flavor)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

I cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, I brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks.
I add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened and fragrant.
I season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or chili powder if using.
I lower the heat and stir in the Velveeta cubes and milk, letting everything melt together into a creamy sauce.
Once smooth, I add the drained pasta and toss everything until fully coated.
I let it simmer for a minute or two to thicken slightly, then serve hot with chopped parsley on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4–6 servings. It takes 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook.

Variations

Sometimes I add diced tomatoes or green chilies to give the dish a little kick. I’ve also stirred in frozen peas or spinach at the end for a bit of green. If I want to stretch it further, I use a mix of ground beef and cooked lentils. And when I want extra creaminess, I add a splash of heavy cream along with the milk.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. It doesn’t freeze well because the cheese can change texture, but it keeps nicely in the fridge. Creamy Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, I’ve made this with penne, shells, elbows—you name it. Bowtie holds the sauce nicely, but any pasta works.

Can I use shredded cheese instead of Velveeta?

I prefer Velveeta for the smooth melt, but I’ve used a combo of cheddar and cream cheese with good results.

Can I make it spicy?

Definitely. I add chili flakes, jalapeños, or use spicy Rotel tomatoes when I want to turn up the heat.

Is this a good meal prep dish?

Yes. I make a big batch and portion it out for lunches. Just reheat with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey works great and makes the dish a little lighter while still being hearty.

Conclusion

Creamy Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles is the kind of no-fuss meal I rely on when I want something comforting and quick. I love the creamy cheese sauce, the tender pasta, and the way it all comes together in one pan. It’s easy, satisfying, and always a hit at the dinner table.