Description
Cajun Beef Pasta is the perfect fusion of bold Cajun flavors and creamy comfort. Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or a lover of hearty pastas, this recipe hits the sweet spot. It’s quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and sure to impress your family or guests. The combination of tender beef, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta will make this dish a regular in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Beef and Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 1 lb ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Cajun Sauce:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.
Prepare the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef or beef strips and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon if using ground beef.
- Season with salt and pepper, then remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Cajun Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes).
Combine Ingredients:
- Add the Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and ensure even coating.
Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the Cajun Beef Pasta to serving plates or a large dish.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately while hot.
- Cook Time: 20 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg