This indulgent and flavor-packed pasta dish is the kind of comfort food that wraps you in warmth with every bite. Creamy Velveeta melts into a rich Alfredo sauce, balanced by bold Cajun spices and hearty ground beef. It’s the perfect blend of spicy, cheesy, and satisfying—all layered over tender penne pasta.

What sets this pasta apart is the velvety sauce that clings to every rigatoni tube. The Cajun seasoning adds a Southern-inspired depth, while the browned beef brings a savory heartiness that turns a simple dinner into a standout family meal. Ideal for cozy nights or entertaining guests, this recipe is pure comfort in a bowl.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, having the right tools makes everything smoother and more enjoyable:

Large Deep Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is your workhorse for browning the beef and making the sauce. A wide surface helps evenly cook everything.
Medium Saucepan: Needed for boiling your penne pasta. Choose a pot with a lid to bring water to a boil faster.
Colander: To drain the pasta without losing any precious noodles.

Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Essential for stirring without scratching your pans and for scraping up those flavorful browned bits.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise measurements of spices and cheese to nail the flavor every time.

Having these tools ready helps you move through the recipe efficiently without pausing or improvising. It’s all about flow in the kitchen!

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

Penne Pasta: A tubular pasta that holds the sauce beautifully.
Ground Beef: Adds savory depth and makes the dish satisfying enough for dinner.
Velveeta Cheese: The hero of the sauce, lending a smooth, melty texture that doesn’t clump.

Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious Alfredo-style base for the cheese to melt into.
Cajun Seasoning: Infuses the dish with smoky, spicy flavor.
Minced Garlic: Brightens the beef and boosts flavor depth.

Butter: Adds richness and helps bloom the spices.
Parsley or Green Onion (optional): For garnish and a pop of color.
Salt & Pepper: To taste, balancing the richness of the dish.

How To Make the Creamy Velveeta Penne Pasta with Cajun Beef Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In your large skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until fully browned. Drain any excess grease, then return to the pan.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Add minced garlic and Cajun seasoning to the beef. Stir and let the spices cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir, allowing it to warm. Gradually add Velveeta cubes, stirring constantly until melted into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine & Simmer

Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet. Toss gently to coat all the noodles in the sauce. Simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes to let flavors meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired. Serve hot and melty.

Best Way to Serve and Store This Pasta

Serve this creamy Velveeta pasta immediately while hot and bubbly. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted veggies to balance the richness.

For storing leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to help loosen the sauce and maintain its silky texture.

This pasta also freezes decently—just be sure to cool and portion it in freezer-safe containers. Reheat from frozen in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the Cajun Alfredo sauce?

It has a mild to medium kick, depending on your Cajun seasoning. Feel free to adjust the amount for your spice preference.

Can I use a different cheese instead of Velveeta?

Yes! While Velveeta gives that ultra-creamy texture, you can substitute with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, though the sauce may not be as smooth.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It reheats well and stays creamy with a little added liquid during warming.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely! Rigatoni, rotini, or even shells will work great. Just aim for a shape that holds sauce well.

What protein substitutes work well?

Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat crumbles are all great substitutes for ground beef.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty, meat-free version.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this creamy Velveeta pasta, check out these other cheesy and savory pasta recipes:

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use beef, turkey, or go veggie? Did you add extra spice or cheese?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Feel free to share questions too—let’s help each other make dinner even better.

Creamy Velveeta Penne Pasta with Cajun Beef Alfredo Sauce

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

This rich, creamy pasta dish features tender penne pasta smothered in a Velveeta Alfredo sauce with bold Cajun spices and savory ground beef. It’s comfort food with a Southern twist—perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something ultra-satisfying.