Cajun Beef Pasta

Discover the rich and creamy Cajun Beef Pasta perfect for cozy dinners. Full of flavor and easy to make, a true comfort food delight.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 people

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
0.5 cup heavy cream
0.5 cup beef broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 oz bowtie pasta
0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat
to taste salt and pepper
to garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

Large skillet
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula
Grater (for Parmesan cheese)

Method

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up as it browns, until fully cooked through.
Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes into the cooked beef.
Sauté for another minute to allow the spices to bloom.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring to combine and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions and reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 28gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce for extra umami flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. If reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy texture. For a lighter dish, you can substitute ground beef with turkey or use low-fat cream alternatives.