Description
Spicy, creamy, and full of flavor, this one-pot Cajun beef pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner that’s quick and easy to make with minimal cleanup!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for leaner option)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
- 8 oz penne pasta (or any pasta shape)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for a cheesy twist
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up as it browns, for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.
- Add Spices: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, smoked paprika, thyme, onion powder, and garlic powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes to let the spices bloom and coat the beef.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer. Add the penne pasta and ensure it’s covered by the liquid.
- Cook the Pasta: Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens. If needed, add extra broth or cream to adjust consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Optional: Stir in shredded cheese for a creamy, cheesy finish. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your preference for heat. Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce for more kick.
- For a Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and omit cheese.
- Pasta Alternatives: Use any pasta you prefer, such as rotini or fusilli.
- Add Veggies: Throw in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to increase the veggie content.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g