Velveeta Penne Pasta with Cajun Beef Alfredo Sauce

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Velveeta lovers, this one’s for you. Imagine a bubbling, creamy Alfredo sauce swirled with melted Velveeta, spiced Cajun ground beef, and tender penne pasta, all baked to golden perfection. It’s rich, bold, and absolutely soul-warming.

This dish combines the smooth melt of Velveeta with the deep savory heat of Cajun-seasoned beef, then hugs it all with classic penne that holds onto every drop of sauce. It’s like mac and cheese and Cajun Alfredo had a delicious love child—a weeknight-friendly meal that eats like comfort food royalty.

Why You’ll Love This Velveeta Penne with Cajun Beef Alfredo

You’ll love this because it’s indulgent without being complicated. Velveeta gives you that ultra-creamy texture every time, and the Cajun spice brings smoky heat that balances the richness. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Bonus? It’s a one-skillet dinner (or easy casserole) that goes from stovetop to oven in minutes. Add veggies or switch out the beef for turkey or sausage—this is a forgiving, customizable dish.

Can I Use a Different Cheese Instead of Velveeta?

You can! Velveeta gives this dish its signature creaminess and nostalgic flavor, but if you want to go more gourmet, try a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack with a splash of cream cheese. Just note: real cheese doesn’t melt quite as uniformly as Velveeta, so be sure to stir slowly and melt low-and-slow for the smoothest sauce.

Don’t skip the Cajun seasoning—it’s what gives this cheesy dish its irresistible kick.


Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Penne Pasta with Cajun Beef Alfredo Sauce

Every component in this recipe layers on bold flavor and irresistible creaminess. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

  • Penne Pasta: Holds sauce in its ridges and tubes, making every bite rich and creamy.
  • Ground Beef: Savory, hearty, and the perfect protein to soak up all the Cajun spices.
  • Velveeta Cheese: Melts ultra-smooth for that iconic creamy texture.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds richness and body to the Alfredo sauce.
  • Butter: Starts the sauce with a rich, savory base.
  • Garlic: Boosts the depth of flavor with bold, aromatic notes.
  • Cajun Seasoning: Brings heat, smoke, and a little earthiness to the entire dish.
  • Mozzarella Cheese (optional): For a cheesy topping that melts beautifully under the broiler.
  • Diced Tomatoes or Roasted Red Peppers (optional): Adds acidity and color contrast.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: Balances the flavors.
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How To Make the Creamy Velveeta Penne Pasta with Cajun Beef Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Penne

Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Cajun Beef

In a skillet, cook ground beef with Cajun seasoning until fully browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Velveeta Alfredo Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and stir in cubed Velveeta. Stir gently until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Beef, and Sauce

Return the beef to the skillet and fold in cooked penne. Mix until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 5: (Optional) Bake It

Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with mozzarella and roasted red peppers or tomatoes. Broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve hot and garnish with parsley if desired.


How to Serve and Store Creamy Velveeta Penne with Cajun Beef Alfredo

This hearty pasta bake comfortably feeds 4 to 6 people, making it great for families or leftovers. Serve it hot from the skillet or casserole dish for maximum gooey, cheesy appeal.

To store, let the dish cool completely and place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk and warm on the stovetop or in the oven to bring the sauce back to life.

This pasta is also freezer-friendly. Just skip the broiling step and freeze in an oven-safe container. When ready, reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through.


What to Serve With This Creamy Cajun Pasta

Garlic Knots

Chewy, buttery, and perfect for scooping up extra cheese sauce.

Cajun Corn on the Cob

A spicy, smoky side that matches the pasta’s Cajun flair.

Mixed Green Salad

Add a light contrast with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and vinaigrette.

Roasted Veggie Medley

Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and onions add earthiness and color.

Southern Coleslaw

A creamy, crunchy bite that brings cooling balance to spicy pasta.

Honey-Butter Dinner Rolls

Soft, sweet rolls that play beautifully against the savory sauce.

Fried Okra

Crispy and bold, it’s a Southern-style appetizer that fits the mood perfectly.


Want More Cheesy Pasta Recipes?

If you enjoyed this Creamy Velveeta Penne Pasta with Cajun Beef Alfredo Sauce, here are some other mouthwatering dishes to add to your weekly rotation:

These are perfect for when you want creamy, meaty, and flavor-packed meals that satisfy in every bite.


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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board and come back to it when you need a cozy weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing pasta dish.

Have you made it yet? Leave a comment and tell us your twist! Add jalapeños? Used smoked sausage instead of beef? We want to hear about it.

Find more satisfying pasta recipes, family-style meals, and Southern-inspired comfort foods on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and keep your dinner game strong!

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Creamy Velveeta Penne Pasta with Cajun Beef Alfredo Sauce

Creamy Velveeta Penne Pasta with Cajun Beef Alfredo Sauce


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Description

When you’re craving ultra-creamy comfort food with a bold Cajun twist, this Creamy Velveeta Penne with Cajun Beef Alfredo delivers. It’s rich, meaty, and spicy with a melt-in-your-mouth texture thanks to Velveeta cheese. The Cajun-spiced beef gives it a deep, smoky flavor that blends perfectly with the Alfredo base and tender penne pasta. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or cozy Sunday bake, this easy recipe offers big flavor with very little fuss. Ideal for comfort food lovers and anyone looking for creamy pasta dinner ideas or family-friendly meals.


Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb ground beef

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

2 tablespoons butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 ½ cups heavy cream

8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

½ cup diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers (optional)

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste


Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a skillet, brown ground beef with Cajun seasoning. Drain excess fat and remove beef from skillet.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.

4. Pour in heavy cream and stir in cubed Velveeta. Simmer on low until cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.

5. Return beef to skillet and fold in the cooked pasta. Mix to coat evenly.

6. Optional: Transfer to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and tomatoes or roasted red peppers.

7. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.

8. Serve hot and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Use freshly grated mozzarella for best melt and broil effect.

You can substitute ground turkey or sausage for the beef to change things up.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop + Broil
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 generous plate
  • Calories: 790
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Fat: 51g
  • Saturated Fat: 28g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, Velveeta recipes, Cajun beef pasta, cheesy penne, dinner bake

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