One-Pot Creamy Cajun Beef Pasta
This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Beef Pasta is bursting with bold flavors and creamy comfort, perfect for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or wide pot
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Grater
- Serving utensils and bowls
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes undrained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once browned, transfer the beef to a bowl and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, stirring well to coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices and the 2 cups of beef broth. Stir to combine everything.
- Add the 8 ounces of penne pasta directly into the pot. Give it a good stir to submerge the pasta in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover with a lid and let cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and mix in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy the rich, spicy, and creamy goodness of your One-Pot Creamy Cajun Beef Pasta.
Notes
- Stir frequently during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking together.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to control the spice level to your preference.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with added broth or cream to restore creaminess.