Description
This Indulgent Cheesy Garlic Twisted Pasta with Cajun Ground Beef is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring rotini pasta enveloped in a rich Velveeta and Alfredo cheese sauce, complemented by spicy Cajun-seasoned ground beef and a hint of garlic. Quick to prepare in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a comforting family meal with a twist of Southern flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces Rotini Pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
Meat & Protein
- 1 pound Ground Beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
Cheese & Dairy
- 8 ounces Velveeta Cheese (cubed) (or cream cheese/cheddar-mozzarella blend)
- 1 cup Alfredo Sauce (homemade or low-fat version)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella or Parmesan (optional) (any melting cheese works)
Seasonings & Herbs
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced; or use garlic powder)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning (or Creole seasoning for variation)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (optional) (or other herbs like basil)
- Olive oil (for cooking, approx. 1-2 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop further cooking and set aside.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart continuously until browned evenly. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
- Sauté Seasonings: Return the skillet to medium heat, add the Cajun seasoning and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the spices are well incorporated into the meat.
- Create Cheese Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the Alfredo sauce and cubed Velveeta cheese. Keep stirring continuously for about 3-5 minutes until the cheeses melt together, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained rotini pasta to the skillet with the cheesy beef sauce. Fold and stir gently for 2-3 minutes ensuring every piece of pasta is thoroughly coated in the luscious cheese mixture.
- Finish with Cheese and Herb: If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top evenly. Cover the skillet for 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt or place under a broiler briefly to create a golden crust on top. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- Ground turkey is a leaner substitute for ground beef if you prefer a lighter dish.
- For a family-friendly spice level, adjust Cajun seasoning to taste, or opt for Creole seasoning for a milder but still flavorful profile.
- Using Velveeta cheese creates a creamy texture, but you may substitute with cream cheese mixed with shredded cheddar-mozzarella blend for a different taste and texture.
- Broiling the final dish adds a delightful bubbly crust but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
