Ingredients
Scale
- 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