This Easy Crockpot Dinner is perfect for busy days! With its creamy, cheesy sauce and hearty ground beef, it’s comfort food at its finest. This dish is quick to prepare and will have the whole family coming back for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
Minimal Effort: Let your slow cooker handle most of the work.
Rich and Creamy: Velveeta and cream cheese create an indulgent, velvety sauce.
Hearty and Satisfying: Bowtie noodles and ground beef make it a filling meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: A family favorite that’s perfect for weeknights or potlucks.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
1 big block of Velveeta cheese
1 (8 oz) 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
How to Make Easy Crockpot Dinner
Prepare Your Crockpot:
Set the crockpot to high heat.
Cook the Ground Beef:
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
Add Ingredients to the Crockpot:
Cut the Velveeta and cream cheese into cubes and add them to the crockpot.
Stir in the cream of chicken soup and Rotel tomatoes with chilies.
Cook and Stir:
Cover the crockpot and cook on high for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to combine the melted cheeses and other ingredients.
Prepare the Noodles:
While the crockpot mixture cooks, boil the bowtie noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked noodles to the crockpot just before serving.
Mix thoroughly and serve hot.
Helpful Tips for Recipe Success
Cheese Substitutions: Feel free to swap Velveeta for shredded cheddar or cream cheese for a reduced-fat version.
Add Veggies: Stir in cooked peas, corn, or sautéed bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Rotel Alternatives: Adjust spice levels by using mild or hot Rotel or substitute with diced tomatoes and green chilies.
Protein Variations: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or shredded cheese for added flavor.
Sides: Serve with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the ground beef and prepare the cheese mixture in advance. Refrigerate them separately, then combine in the crockpot when ready to cook.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but note that the cheese sauce may slightly change in texture upon reheating. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Can I make this without a crockpot?
Absolutely! Use a large pot on the stovetop to melt the cheese mixture over low heat, stirring frequently, and combine it with the cooked ground beef and noodles.
Timing Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
This Easy Crockpot Dinner is the ultimate blend of cheesy, creamy goodness with hearty bowtie pasta and flavorful ground beef. It’s an effortless dinner option that’s guaranteed to satisfy!