Cajun Beef and Cheddar Pasta ✨🍋🌸
Ingredients:
1lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
To the beef, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the beef and vegetables with the spices.
Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream cheese, beef broth, and heavy cream. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth.
Add the pasta and bring everything to a simmer.
Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Once the pasta is cooked and creamy, stir in the cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Cajun Beef and Cheddar Pasta is a delightful meal that combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with creamy cheese and hearty pasta. This one-pot dish simplifies dinner preparation while ensuring rich, savory tastes in every bite. The use of ground beef provides a satisfying protein base, complemented by the fresh vegetables like onions and bell peppers, which introduce sweetness and texture. The standout element of this recipe is the Cajun seasoning, a blend typically featuring paprika, cayenne pepper, and other spices, giving the dish its distinctive kick. When sautéed with garlic, these spices awaken your taste buds and create a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen, making it a hit for family meals or entertaining guests. By adding cream cheese and heavy cream, the sauce achieves a luscious, velvety consistency that envelops the pasta perfectly. This rich creaminess balances the spice, making it palatable for everyone, including those who may not usually enjoy spicy food. Topping the dish with shredded cheddar cheese further enhances its creaminess while also adding a delightful cheesiness that kids especially will love. This meal is not just quick and easy, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish, but also incredibly filling. It’s the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Plus, with minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pot cooking method, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of doing extensive dishes. Serve it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. For those looking to customize, consider stirring in some vegetables like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition. Alternatively, swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. No matter how you make it, Cajun Beef and Cheddar Pasta surely delivers comforting flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Also here is a snap of the macros for 4 servings made from this meal