This Easy Crockpot Dinner is a cheesy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The blend of Velveeta, cream cheese, ground beef, and Rotel tomatoes creates a deliciously creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with bowtie noodles.
Ingredients:
- 1 big block Velveeta cheese
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies
- 2.25 pounds ground beef
- 1 box bowtie noodles
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
- Set your crockpot to high.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
3. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot:
- Add the Velveeta, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and Rotel tomatoes to the crockpot with the cooked ground beef. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook:
- Cover and cook on high for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally until the cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
5. Prepare the Pasta:
- Boil the bowtie noodles according to the package instructions. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.
6. Combine:
- Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked bowtie noodles to the crockpot. If needed, use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
7. Serve:
- Stir everything together and serve warm. Enjoy!
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can season the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning while browning.
- Try adding diced bell peppers or onions to the ground beef for added texture and taste.
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or your favorite melting cheese. The texture might differ slightly.
2. Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of beef?
- Absolutely! Ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken would work well in this dish.
3. How can I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water if needed to rehydrate the sauce.
Enjoy your rich, cheesy, and hearty crockpot dinner!