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Cajun Beef Alfredo

Cajun Beef Alfredo

Discover the rich, creamy Cajun Beef Alfredo with a zesty kick. Perfect for any occasion and easy to make. Enjoy a flavorful pasta experience.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • to garnish fresh parsley, chopped
  • to taste red pepper flakes, optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Tongs or a slotted spoon
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and save 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, seasoning with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Transfer beef to a plate and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in heavy cream, then add Velveeta cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Mix in mozzarella and Parmesan until the sauce is thick and glossy.
  4. Return cooked beef and penne pasta to the skillet. Toss gently until evenly coated in the cheesy Alfredo sauce, adding reserved pasta water if necessary.
  5. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving. Serve hot for the best flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. Feel free to add cayenne pepper for an extra spicy kick. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk or cream. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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