Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

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Craving a pasta dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with Italian flavor? This Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara is the ultimate comfort food that turns a simple dinner into a savory celebration. With tender bowtie pasta, juicy ground beef simmered in marinara, and a dreamy layer of melted Velveeta, every bite is pure satisfaction.

Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish brings everyone to the table fast. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping a comforting leftover for tomorrow, this creamy pasta bake delivers both flavor and ease. Plus, it’s a fantastic recipe to get kids excited about dinner again.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To pull off the creamy, cheesy magic of this dish, you’ll want to have your kitchen game ready with the following tools:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is key for browning the beef and building those rich marinara flavors. Choose a deep one to avoid spills.
• Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: Make sure it’s big enough for the bowtie pasta to move freely—this helps them cook evenly without sticking.
• Colander: For draining your cooked pasta quickly and cleanly.
• Mixing Spoon or Spatula: A sturdy spoon helps mix the beef and sauce evenly without scratching your pans.
• Baking Dish (9×13 inch): Essential for assembling and baking your final pasta masterpiece until golden and bubbling.
• Aluminum Foil: Use it to cover the dish for the first part of baking to prevent over-browning, then uncover for that irresistible top layer.

Each tool plays a vital role in achieving that gooey, hearty finish that makes this recipe so special. Make sure you have them ready before you start—it streamlines the process and keeps everything smooth.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

• Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): This pasta holds the sauce beautifully in its folds and has a satisfying bite.
• Ground Beef: The hearty foundation of the marinara sauce, offering depth and flavor.
• Velveeta Cheese: Delivers unmatched creaminess and a smooth, velvety texture that ties the whole dish together.
• Marinara Sauce: A jar of your favorite marinara adds robust tomato flavor and Italian herbs.
• Italian Seasoning: Blends basil, oregano, and thyme to give your sauce a bold Mediterranean edge.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These pantry staples boost the savory base of the dish.
• Shredded Mozzarella: Sprinkled on top for a gooey, melty finish.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the pasta water and the beef.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the ground beef and enhancing flavor.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Build the Marinara Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Step 4: Add Velveeta

Cut Velveeta into cubes and stir it into the sauce. Let it melt slowly, stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and fully combined.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the drained bowtie pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until all the pasta is coated in the creamy, cheesy beef marinara.

Step 6: Bake It

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top generously with shredded mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 5-10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

Serve this cheesy pasta hot, straight from the oven, when the mozzarella is still melted and stringy. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal. It’s also a great option for casual potlucks or family dinners that call for a crowd-pleaser.

To store leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—just wrap portions in foil or use freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight and reheat when ready.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ground beef works best?

Lean ground beef (85%-90%) is ideal because it keeps the dish hearty without too much grease. If using fattier meat, be sure to drain well after browning.

Can I substitute Velveeta with another cheese?

Yes, you can use cream cheese or a combination of cheddar and heavy cream, but the signature smoothness and meltability of Velveeta is what makes this dish ultra-creamy.

Is it okay to use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or shells will also hold the sauce well. Just avoid thin pasta like spaghetti for this recipe.

How do I keep the cheese from getting grainy?

Add the Velveeta gradually over low heat, stirring constantly. Avoid overheating which can break down the cheese texture.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Is this kid-friendly?

Very! The cheesy sauce and fun pasta shape make it a big hit with kids, and you can even sneak in some veggies like finely chopped spinach or zucchini.

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Want More Cheesy Pasta Bake Ideas?

If this Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta hit the spot, you’ll love diving into more rich, savory meals from LadyPlate. Try the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta for another comforting twist on farfalle.

For a spicier option, the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna brings bold heat layered with creamy cheese.

Prefer something with a bit of crunch? The Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni combines garlic and sausage flavors in a creamy pasta bake that’s both crispy and tender.

Don’t miss the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce, which leans into creaminess with a silky white sauce twist.

Or for a Southern comfort upgrade, check out Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole—it’s not pasta, but it shares the same oozy, baked goodness.

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If you end up making it, let me know! Did you add any veggies? Did you try a spicy twist? Drop a comment or tag me—I’m always excited to see your take.

For more cozy recipes like this one, check out my daily shares over on Pinterest: LadyPlate.

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