Description
A hearty, cheesy, and comforting one-pan meal made with tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, and creamy Velveeta cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights and loved by both kids and adults!
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- Water for boiling
- Salt for pasta water
For the beef and sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- ½ cup beef broth (or water)
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional toppings:
- Chopped parsley or green onions
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Brown the beef:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil (if using) over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
3️⃣ Build the sauce:
Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
4️⃣ Add the Velveeta:
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Velveeta cheese cubes, mixing continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5️⃣ Combine:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat all the pasta in the cheesy beef sauce.
6️⃣ Garnish and serve:
Spoon into bowls and optionally top with chopped parsley, green onions, or extra shredded cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Pasta Alternatives: If you don’t have bowtie pasta, feel free to substitute with penne, rotini, or macaroni—any short pasta will work well to hold the cheesy sauce.
- Velveeta Substitution: You can use a mix of cheddar and American cheese if you don’t have Velveeta, though it may not be quite as smooth and creamy.
- Add Vegetables: To add more nutrition, toss in some frozen peas, corn, or chopped spinach during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4