Description
A spicy, creamy pasta dish featuring Cajun-seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce. This one-pot wonder delivers bold Louisiana flavors with minimal cleanup!
Ingredients
- Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A splash of colour and freshness.
- 1 lb Ground Beef – Opt for lean beef to reduce excess fat.
- 1 medium Onion, chopped – Yellow onions work beautifully for their sweetness.
- 1 medium Bell Pepper, chopped – Choose a red or green bell pepper for some colour.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds an irresistible aroma.
- 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning – A must for that bold, spicy essence.
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika – For a smoky undertone.
- 1 tsp Salt – Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper – Freshly ground is preferred for maximum flavour.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes with Green Chillies, undrained – The extra juices help create a more flavorful sauce.
- 1 block (8 oz) Cream Cheese, softened – Let it sit at room temperature for easier incorporation.
- 1 cup Beef Broth – Use homemade or store-bought, opting for low-sodium if possible.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream – For that rich creaminess.
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni – Substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired.
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded – Sharp cheddar provides the richest flavour.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil – Extra virgin is my go-to for flavour.
- Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A splash of colour and freshness.
Instructions
Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.,Sauté Trinity: Heat oil in large pot. Cook bell pepper, onion, and celery 5 mins until softened. Add garlic; cook 1 min more.,Brown Beef: Add ground beef, breaking it up. Cook until no pink remains (5-6 mins). Drain excess fat.,Season: Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, cayenne (if using), and Worcestershire sauce.,Make Roux: Push ingredients aside. Melt butter, whisk in flour. Cook 1 min until golden.,Create Sauce: Gradually whisk in cream and broth until smooth. Simmer 3 mins until slightly thickened.,Combine: Add cooked pasta and cheddar. Toss until cheese melts, using reserved pasta water if needed.,Serve: Garnish with green onions, parsley, and hot sauce.
Notes
Heat Control: Start with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, add more to taste,Shortcut: Use pre-shredded cheese blend,Make Ahead: Sauce keeps refrigerated 3 days,Vegetable Boost: Add okra or mushrooms with trinity,Protein Swap: Andouille sausage works great too
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg