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Cheesy Crockpot Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

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.
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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!