Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

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This Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara is the ultimate comfort food mashup you didn’t know you needed. Picture tender bowtie pasta drenched in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, swirled with bold Italian-seasoned ground beef and a homemade marinara that clings to every bite. It’s cheesy, savory, and layered with deep, cozy flavors that make it taste like a dish straight out of a family cookbook.

Whether you need a weeknight dinner that makes everyone happy or a weekend treat that feels a little extra, this dish delivers. Velveeta gives it that unbeatable creamy finish, while the Italian beef marinara brings soul-satisfying depth. Once it hits the table, don’t expect leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

If you’re craving something indulgent yet simple, this dish is your new favorite. It strikes the perfect balance between nostalgic cheesy pasta and hearty Italian meat sauce. The creamy Velveeta sauce wraps around every bowtie like a warm hug, and the seasoned beef marinara adds a rustic, homestyle richness.

It comes together quickly with ingredients you likely already have on hand, and it’s easy to double for a crowd. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or grown-up taste buds, this pasta checks every box for a satisfying meal.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for This Recipe?

Bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, works beautifully here because its ridges and shape hold onto the creamy cheese sauce and marinara in the best way possible. That said, if you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or shells.

However, bowtie pasta not only looks charming on a plate, but it also offers great texture. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t fall apart when combined with the rich sauces. And don’t skip the salted water—it makes a world of difference in flavor.

Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

This recipe leans on simple pantry staples and a few fridge must-haves. Each ingredient plays a role in creating the creamy, savory, and comforting experience of this dish. The combination of bold beef, melty cheese, and hearty pasta is what takes this meal over the top.

• Bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• Ground beef
• Velveeta cheese
• Marinara sauce
• Heavy cream
• Onion
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

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

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Add Marinara and Simmer

Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let the beef marinara simmer on low for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Make the Velveeta Cream Sauce

In a separate saucepan over low heat, combine cubed Velveeta and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. If it’s too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the beef marinara. Pour the creamy Velveeta sauce over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Let it warm together for 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or a large platter. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness if desired. Serve immediately while hot and melty.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

This pasta dish is a total crowd-pleaser, and it serves around 4 to 6 people depending on portion size. It makes a hearty dinner for families, or it can be dressed up with sides and served at a casual dinner gathering. The cheese sauce tends to thicken as it sits, so serve it warm right after cooking for the best creamy texture.

To store leftovers, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk and gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave to bring back the luscious creaminess.

What to Serve With Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara?

Garlic Bread with Cheese

Buttery, garlicky bread topped with melted mozzarella or provolone perfectly complements the cheesy richness of the pasta.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with romaine, shaved Parmesan, and croutons adds freshness and crunch to balance the creamy pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasted until slightly crispy, broccoli adds a touch of earthy flavor and lightens up the plate.

Italian Green Beans

Tossed with olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes, these beans add a bit of snap and heat.

Caprese Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze bring a refreshing, colorful touch.

Antipasto Platter

A small plate of olives, artichokes, salami, and pickled vegetables adds variety and pairs wonderfully with the Italian flavors in the pasta.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

A tall glass of sparkling water with fresh lemon slices makes a bright, palate-cleansing drink option.

Tiramisu or Cannoli

Finish the meal with a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu or a crisp cannoli for a sweet finale.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Cheesy Twist?

If you loved this Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara, you’ll definitely want to try these other flavorful, comforting favorites from the blog:

• Creamy Beef and Shells for a classic comfort food that’s hearty and rich.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a quick one-pan meal.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you’re in the mood for melty cheese overload.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a garlicky twist on a beefy pasta dish.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta when you want savory with a bit of smokiness.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a spicy twist? Mix in veggies? Swap the meat?

I love seeing the way others make these dishes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s cook smarter and cozier together.

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals and pasta favorites on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and find your next creamy obsession!

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