Description

Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta Casserole combines tender pasta, savory beef, and rich Velveeta cheese in one comforting dish. Perfect for busy nights or family dinners!

Ingredients

For the Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta Casserole

Bowtie Pasta: 12 oz – A sturdy pasta shape that holds up well to the rich sauce and layers in the casserole.
Ground Beef: 1 lb – Adds protein and a savory flavor base.
Velveeta Cheese: 1 lb, cubed – Melts smoothly, providing a creamy, cohesive texture to the casserole.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (Rotel): 1 can (10 oz) – Adds a hint of spice and tangy flavor to balance the creaminess.
Onion: 1 small, diced – Adds mild sweetness and depth.
Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon – Enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.
Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon – A blend of oregano, basil, and rosemary, adding an aromatic depth to the casserole.
Salt and Pepper: To taste – Brings out the flavors and balances the richness of the cheese.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create a perfectly creamy, cheesy, and flavorful Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta Casserole.

Step 1: Prepare the Bowtie Pasta

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8–9 minutes, until al dente.
Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta well, shaking off excess water to prevent the casserole from becoming watery. Set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté the Onions

Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning.
Add the Onion: Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion. Continue cooking for 3–4 minutes, until the onions are softened and translucent.
Drain Excess Fat: If necessary, drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent a greasy texture in the casserole.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce

Add Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Stir in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained, and let it cook for about 2–3 minutes to blend flavors with the beef and onion.
Add Velveeta and Seasonings: Gradually add the cubed Velveeta cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously as the Velveeta melts, creating a smooth, creamy sauce that evenly coats the beef.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Add Pasta to Skillet: Transfer the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, gently folding it into the cheese sauce until all pasta is thoroughly coated with the mixture.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add extra salt and pepper if needed, ensuring the flavors are balanced.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Casserole

Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer.
Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 minutes. Covering the dish allows the flavors to meld and ensures the cheese melts smoothly.
Uncover for Final Browning: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly for easier serving.

Notes

Expert Tips for Success

Making Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta Casserole is straightforward, but these tips will ensure you achieve the best possible flavor, texture, and presentation. Follow these guidelines for a perfectly creamy, cheesy, and satisfying casserole every time.

Tips for Perfect Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta Casserole

Cook Pasta Until Just Al Dente: Since the pasta will bake in the casserole, slightly undercook it during the boiling stage to keep it from becoming too soft after baking.
Drain the Ground Beef Well: After browning the ground beef, be sure to drain any excess fat. This keeps the casserole from becoming greasy and lets the cheese sauce shine.
Melt Cheese Gradually: Add Velveeta in small cubes and melt slowly on medium heat. This prevents the cheese from scorching and ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
Add Extra Seasoning if Needed: Taste the sauce before baking and adjust seasoning to your preference, as Velveeta has a mild flavor and may need additional salt or pepper for a richer taste.
Let the Casserole Rest After Baking: Allow the casserole to sit for about 5–10 minutes after it’s baked. This gives the cheese sauce time to thicken, making it easier to serve and ensuring that each piece holds its shape.