This creamy and cheesy Crockpot Dinner Pot Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a simple, satisfying dish that brings together tender beef, rich Velveeta, and a touch of spice from Rotel tomatoes. Perfect for busy days, the crockpot does most of the work!
Ingredients:
- 1 big block of Velveeta
- 1 8oz block of cream cheese
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 can of Rotel Tomatoes with chilies
- 2.25 pounds ground beef
- 1 box of bowtie noodles
Directions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Set your crockpot on high to start heating up.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then add the ground beef to the crockpot.
3. Add Creamy Ingredients:
Add the Velveeta, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and Rotel tomatoes into the crockpot with the beef. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook in the Crockpot:
Let the mixture cook on high for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the cheese melts evenly.
5. Boil the Noodles:
In a separate pot, boil the bowtie noodles according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
6. Combine Pasta with the Sauce:
Once the pasta is cooked, add it to the crockpot mixture. Stir everything together, adding pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy beef and bowtie pasta hot, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors!
Serving:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1.5 hours in crockpot, plus pasta cooking time
- Total Time: About 2 hours
- Servings: 6-8 servings
Variations:
- Spice it Up: Add extra chilies or hot sauce for a spicier version.
- Switch the Protein: Use ground turkey or sausage instead of beef for a different flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in cooked spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrients.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or macaroni.
Q: How can I make this dish less rich?
A: To lighten the dish, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or Velveeta. You can also substitute the cream of chicken soup with a lighter alternative.
Conclusion:
This Crockpot Dinner Pot Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a quick and easy meal that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknights or family dinners, it’s a comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
