Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta (Print Version)

Bowtie pasta with seasoned beef, creamy Velveeta, marinara, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh basil.

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 ounces bowtie pasta

→ Meat

02 - 1 pound ground beef

→ Sauce

03 - 1 jar (14.5 ounces) marinara sauce

→ Cheeses

04 - 1 block (8 ounces) Velveeta cheese, cubed
05 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
06 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

→ Seasonings

07 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - Salt, to taste
10 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

11 - Fresh basil, chopped

# Steps:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and break apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until fully browned and no pink remains. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder during cooking.
03 - Add marinara sauce to the cooked beef in the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
04 - Add Velveeta cheese cubes to the skillet. Stir frequently until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
05 - Add drained bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with cheesy beef marinara sauce.
06 - Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the pasta. Stir gently until melted and well incorporated. Top with grated Parmesan if desired and garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

# Notes:

01 - For a lighter texture, reserve some pasta cooking water and add a few tablespoons to the sauce before combining with the pasta.