Description
Rich, bold, and irresistibly creamy, this Creamy Velveeta Penne Pasta with Cajun Beef Alfredo Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that brings the heat and the smoothness in every bite. Velveeta melts into a dreamy Alfredo base, perfectly coating penne pasta and spicy Cajun-seasoned ground beef for a dish that’s both indulgent and quick to whip up. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner idea, an easy recipe for a family gathering, or just some new food ideas to shake up your rotation, this cheesy pasta is a must-try. It’s one of those quick dinners that *feels* like a splurge but is simple enough to make on the fly. Great for busy nights, cozy weekends, or whenever you’re craving bold, creamy comfort.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon butter
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
salt to taste
black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the beef, stirring well. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a low simmer.
5. Stir in Velveeta cubes, cooking until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
6. Fold in the cooked penne, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan if desired.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or extra Cajun spice.
Notes
Cube the Velveeta into small pieces for faster, smoother melting.
Always taste your Cajun seasoning before using—it varies in heat and saltiness.
Leftovers reheat best with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: creamy pasta, Velveeta recipe, Cajun Alfredo, easy dinner, quick pasta, cheesy beef pasta