Description
Looking for an easy dinner idea that’s creamy, filling, and totally satisfying? This Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara is the weeknight hero you didn’t know you needed. With tender bowtie pasta, a rich Italian-style beef marinara, and a melty mix of Velveeta and mozzarella cheese, this dish brings together the best of comfort food in one skillet. It’s ideal for quick family meals, cozy dinner ideas, or leftovers you’ll actually look forward to. Whether you’re craving a cheesy pasta bake or just need new food ideas to switch up your dinner routine, this easy recipe delivers flavor and comfort with minimal effort.
Ingredients
12 oz bowtie pasta
1 lb lean ground beef
2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dried oregano (optional)
crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil (if using), add the ground beef, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
4. Stir in the Velveeta cheese cubes and cook until fully melted and smooth.
5. Fold in the drained bowtie pasta, coating evenly with the creamy beef marinara.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Broil for 2–4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with parsley or oregano and serve hot.
Notes
For extra flavor, use freshly shredded mozzarella—it melts more evenly than pre-packaged shreds.
Don’t skip the simmering step for the marinara; it enhances the sauce’s depth.
If you want a lighter version, substitute ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: creamy pasta, easy dinner, Velveeta pasta, beef marinara, one-skillet meals