Description

This Indulgent Cheesy Garlic Twisted Pasta with Cajun Ground Beef is a rich and savory dish featuring tender rotini pasta enveloped in a creamy velvety Alfredo and Velveeta cheese sauce spiced with flavorful Cajun seasoning. The dish combines the bold taste of browned ground beef with aromatic garlic and a melty cheese topping for an irresistible comfort meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 oz Rotini Pasta (any short pasta works as a substitute)

Protein and Seasoning

1 lb Ground Beef (try turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter option)
2 cloves Garlic (minced or powder; fresh is best)
1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (adjust based on your heat preference)

Cheese and Sauce

8 oz Velveeta Cheese (cubed; cheese alternatives can provide a similar texture)
15 oz Alfredo Sauce (homemade or store-bought options both work)
Shredded Mozzarella or Parmesan (optional; any other melting cheese can be used)

Garnish

Fresh Parsley (optional; basil or other herbs can give a similar effect)

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the rotini pasta and gently stir it to prevent sticking. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the pasta is al dente, then drain the pasta in a colander.
Brown Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning into the cooked ground beef. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the garlic releases its aroma and the spices infuse the meat.
Melt Cheese and Combine Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Pour in the Alfredo sauce followed by the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir continuously until the Velveeta completely melts and creates a smooth, creamy sauce, roughly 3-4 minutes.
Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained rotini pasta to the skillet. Using a gentle folding motion, combine the pasta thoroughly with the cheesy sauce ensuring every piece is coated evenly.
Melt Topping Cheese (Optional): If using shredded mozzarella or Parmesan, sprinkle it over the pasta. Cover the skillet and let it sit on low heat for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt beautifully on top.
Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Portion the cheesy garlic twisted pasta into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or your preferred fresh herbs for an added burst of color and flavor. Serve warm.

Notes

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly twist.
Fresh garlic is preferred for best flavor but garlic powder can be used as a convenient alternative.
Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your heat tolerance to make it milder or spicier.
Velveeta provides the creamy melting texture but other processed cheeses or cream cheese can be used with similar results.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or sauce to revive creaminess.