You’ll love how easy and satisfying this dish is. The Cajun seasoning brings just the right amount of heat, while the creamy sauce balances it out with richness. Everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s versatile, filling, and ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef or thinly sliced beef
Olive oil
Onion, chopped
Bell pepper, chopped (any color)
Garlic, minced
Cajun seasoning
Paprika
Salt and black pepper
Tomato paste
Uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
Beef or chicken broth
Heavy cream or half and half
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in the garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Mix in the tomato paste, stirring to coat the beef and vegetables.
Add the uncooked pasta, broth, and cream. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people. Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Protein switch: Use chicken, sausage, or shrimp instead of beef.
Spice level: Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Vegetarian option: Use plant-based meat or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
Cheesy twist: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar along with Parmesan.
Tomato boost: Add a can of diced tomatoes for more tomato flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and warm over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until warm.
FAQs
What type of beef should I use?
Ground beef is easiest, but thinly sliced sirloin or flank steak also works great for a more tender, steak-like texture.
Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?
It can be spicy depending on the brand. Start with less and add more to taste if you’re sensitive to heat.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, whole milk or half and half can be used, though the sauce may be a bit thinner than with cream.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni holds sauce well and cooks evenly in one pot.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it reheats well and the flavors continue to develop over time. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Can I freeze Cajun beef pasta?
Freezing is possible, but cream-based sauces may change texture. Reheat slowly and stir well to bring it back together.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cream substitute and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini work well and boost the nutrition.
How do I make it more creamy?
Add more cream or an extra handful of cheese at the end for a richer texture.
What sides go well with this?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this pasta.
Conclusion
One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta is a quick, satisfying meal full of bold flavors and creamy comfort. With its easy one-pot method and customizable ingredients, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that delivers on both taste and convenience. Keep this recipe in your rotation for a spicy, hearty pasta dish everyone will love.
One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta is a bold and hearty dish featuring tender beef, pasta, and creamy Cajun-spiced sauce—all made in one pot for a quick, flavorful meal with easy cleanup.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 to 6 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:One Pot
Cuisine:Cajun
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef or thinly sliced beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp tomato paste
8 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or choice)
2 cups beef or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or half and half
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Mix in tomato paste, stirring to coat the beef and vegetables.
Add uncooked pasta, broth, and cream. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Adjust Cajun seasoning to control the spice level.Use any short pasta like penne or rotini for best results.Swap beef with chicken, shrimp, or sausage for variation.Add more cream or cheese for a richer sauce.Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
