Cheesy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara

If you’re craving bold Italian flavors wrapped in ultra-creamy, cheesy comfort, this Cheesy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara is about to become a regular on your dinner table. It’s hearty, rich, and packed with savory ground beef simmered in marinara, then finished with melty Velveeta for that unmistakably smooth, silky texture.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, hungry families, or anytime you need a no-fail comfort food classic.

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Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something nostalgic and incredibly satisfying about Velveeta-based sauces. They melt effortlessly, creating a velvety texture that clings beautifully to pasta. Combined with seasoned Italian beef and marinara, it transforms into a dish that tastes like a cross between lasagna and a creamy baked ziti — without all the extra work.

If you love rich pasta dishes, you’ll also enjoy Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce for a more traditional take.

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Ingredients

For the Italian Beef Marinara

• 1½ lbs ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 6 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra gooeyness)
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water (if needed)

Optional Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley
• Extra Parmesan

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Ingredient Notes & Swaps

• Ground beef: Use 85/15 for the best balance of flavor and richness.
• Marinara: A high-quality jarred sauce works great, but homemade adds depth.
• Velveeta substitute: You can use cream cheese plus shredded cheddar, though the texture won’t be quite as silky.
• Spice level: Increase red pepper flakes for more heat.

If you’re into hearty, cheesy meals, you’ll also love This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente according to package directions.

Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Italian Beef Marinara

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes.

Pour in marinara sauce and stir well. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10–12 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

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Step 3: Make It Cheesy

Reduce heat to low.

Stir in the Velveeta cubes and allow them to melt completely into the sauce. Add Parmesan and mozzarella, stirring until creamy and smooth.

If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta directly into the skillet. Toss gently until every piece is coated in that rich, cheesy beef marinara.

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Step 5: Serve & Garnish

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan.

Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the pasta — it will continue absorbing sauce.
• Simmer the marinara long enough to deepen flavor.
• Melt cheese on low heat to prevent separation.
• For baked-style texture, transfer to a casserole dish, top with mozzarella, and broil for 2–3 minutes.

For another cozy weeknight favorite, check out This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut.

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Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This pasta pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread
• A simple Caesar or garden salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Sparkling water or red wine

If you’re feeding a crowd, add a second main like These Chicken Enchiladas Are My Go-To for Cozy, Crowd-Pleasing Dinners.

For another one-pan family favorite, try This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: ~950 kcal
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Fat: 55g
• Sodium: Varies by marinara and cheese used

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Storage & Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
• Freezes well for up to 2 months.

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Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Italian Beef Marinara is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make — the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table fast.

If you try it, I’d love to hear your twist. Did you add extra spice? Bake it with more mozzarella on top? Let me know in the comments and be sure to follow along for more crave-worthy comfort food recipes!