Description

This dish combines the comfort of creamy cheese sauce with the hearty richness of Italian-style beef marinara. Bowtie pasta is tossed in a velvety blend of Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, then topped with a robust tomato-based sauce simmered with ground beef and herbs. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is both indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Italian Beef Marinara:
1½ lbs ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta & Cheese Sauce:
12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Italian Beef Marinara: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in onion and garlic; cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and seasonings. Stir well and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened. Add Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
Assemble the Dish: Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated. Spoon the cheesy pasta onto serving plates or a large dish. Top generously with Italian beef marinara.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or fresh basil. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

For added nutrition, mix sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini into the marinara.
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage to change the flavor profile.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
This dish can also be made ahead by preparing the marinara and cheese sauce separately, then assembling just before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes