Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and creamy, melty Velveeta cheese into one irresistible bake. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you need a satisfying meal the whole family will love. Easy to prepare and loaded with flavor, this casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

bowtie pastaground beefVelveeta cheese (cubed)diced tomatoes (with juices)oniongarlicpowdered paprikaItalian seasoningmilkolive oilsalt and pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.

Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Stir in diced tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.

Reduce heat to low and add cubed Velveeta cheese and milk, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the cheese mixture.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6–8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add cooked bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.

Use ground turkey or sausage instead of beef for a twist.

Top with shredded cheddar or mozzarella for an extra cheesy crust.

Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce in the cheese sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.For longer storage, freeze the casserole (before baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rotini, or macaroni also work well in this recipe.

Is Velveeta necessary?

Velveeta gives the casserole its creamy texture, but you can use a mix of cheddar and cream cheese as a substitute.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I need to cover it while baking?

No, bake it uncovered to allow the top to slightly brown and bubble.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Corn, spinach, or zucchini are great additions.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, add chopped jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze before baking for best results.

What goes well with this casserole?

Serve it with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use leftover cooked beef?

Definitely, just warm it with the onion, garlic, and tomatoes before continuing.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, its cheesy and mild flavor makes it a hit with kids.

Conclusion

Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this easy casserole delivers every time. Customize it to your taste, pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a cozy, delicious dinner that brings everyone to the table.