Description

Craving a dish that’s bold, creamy, and satisfying all at once? Penne with Creamy Velveeta Four-Cheese and Cajun Beef Bites is the perfect blend of spicy and rich—ideal for a quick dinner, comfort food night, or meal prep win. Tender Cajun-seasoned beef bites are pan-seared to perfection and served next to velvety penne pasta smothered in a smooth, cheesy Velveeta-based sauce. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, food ideas for a crowd, or simply a creamy, spicy treat, this easy recipe checks all the boxes. A must-try combo of comfort and heat.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1 ½ cups whole milk

8 oz Velveeta cheese cubed

½ cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded

¼ cup mozzarella cheese shredded

¼ cup parmesan cheese grated

1 tbsp butter

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp Italian seasoning

Salt to taste

1 lb sirloin steak or beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes

1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp chili flakes optional

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tbsp butter optional for finishing

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Place beef cubes in a mixing bowl and coat evenly with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

3. Heat a skillet over medium-high. Add olive oil. Sear beef in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Optionally, finish with 1 tbsp butter.

4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add milk, then Velveeta cubes. Stir until melted, then add cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan. Mix until smooth. Season with garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Add pasta water if needed to adjust thickness.

5. Add drained pasta to cheese sauce. Stir to coat and sprinkle in Italian seasoning. Mix well.

6. Plate creamy penne and top or serve alongside Cajun beef bites. Garnish if desired and serve hot.

Notes

Taste and adjust seasonings at every step—it makes all the difference.

Let the beef rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Reheat pasta with a splash of milk or pasta water to bring the sauce back to life.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American/Cajun Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 720
Sugar: 5
Sodium: 980
Fat: 42
Saturated Fat: 18
Unsaturated Fat: 20
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 48
Fiber: 2
Protein: 36
Cholesterol: 130

Keywords: easy dinner, creamy pasta, Cajun beef, Velveeta recipe, food ideas, spicy comfort food