why make this recipe
One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience. This easy recipe combines savory beef, creamy sauce, and zesty Cajun spices into one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll love how quickly you can get dinner on the table without sacrificing taste. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since everything is cooked in one pot!
how to make One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a 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)
Directions:
- 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.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 the consistency.
- 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.
how to serve One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta
Serve the One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta hot straight from the skillet. It pairs well with a simple salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor.
how to store One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.
tips to make One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta
- If you want extra heat, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a little cayenne pepper.
- For a healthier version, use ground turkey or add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Make it dairy-free by using coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
- Don’t skip the cheese if you love a creamy texture—it’s optional but highly recommended!
variation (if any)
You can switch up the types of pasta based on what you have on hand. Shells, rotini, or even spaghetti work well. Additionally, feel free to experiment with adding your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for more nutrition.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
Q: Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a mix of beans or lentils and use vegetable broth and coconut milk for the sauce.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: To increase the spice level, you can add more Cajun seasoning, or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the mix.
One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta
A flavor-packed One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta that’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a 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
- 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.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 the consistency.
- 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
For extra heat, increase the Cajun seasoning or add cayenne pepper. Use ground turkey for a healthier option. Can be made dairy-free using coconut milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg