This one-pot meal is bursting with smoky, spicy Cajun flavor balanced by the creamy sauce that coats every bite. The beef adds savory richness, while the pasta soaks up all the deliciousness in the pan. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and easy to adapt with what you have on hand. Plus, fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy your meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite short pasta)
Ground beef or sliced steak
Onion (chopped)
Bell peppers (sliced, any color)
Garlic (minced)
Cajun seasoning
Crushed tomatoes or tomato paste
Chicken or beef broth
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Olive oil or butter
Salt
Black pepper
Parmesan cheese (grated, optional)
Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
Add the ground beef or sliced steak and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if needed.
Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, crushed tomatoes or tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Add the uncooked pasta and broth. Stir to combine, ensuring pasta is mostly submerged.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked through and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Stir in the cream and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and thickened.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes. Total time: approximately 30 minutes.
Variations
Spicier Version: Add red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy version.
Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies.
Different Protein: Use chicken, sausage, or shrimp instead of beef.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. This dish is best fresh but can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
FAQs
What kind of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni holds the sauce well and cooks evenly in one pot.
Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Yes, store-bought works great, but you can also make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.
Is this dish very spicy?
It has a mild-to-medium heat depending on the Cajun seasoning. You can adjust the spice level to your taste.
Can I use ground beef instead of sliced steak?
Absolutely. Ground beef is easy, affordable, and works perfectly in this one-pot recipe.
How do I make this dish creamy without cream?
Use evaporated milk or a mix of milk and a little butter as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and make sure your Cajun seasoning and broth are gluten-free.
Will the pasta overcook?
As long as you stir occasionally and watch the timing, the pasta should cook just right—tender but not mushy.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
You can chop the veggies and measure out the seasonings in advance. The whole dish comes together quickly from there.
What sides go well with Cajun beef pasta?
A simple green salad or garlic bread makes a great side. You don’t need much—this is a full meal in itself.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure your pot is large enough. You may need a few extra minutes of cooking time.
Conclusion
One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta is a flavorful and filling meal that comes together fast with minimal cleanup. With its creamy texture, bold seasoning, and customizable ingredients, it’s a go-to dish for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for days ahead, this pasta delivers comfort and spice in every bite.
One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta is a bold, creamy, and satisfying dish made with pasta, tender beef, colorful veggies, and a rich Cajun-spiced sauce—all cooked together in one pot for easy prep and cleanup.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:One-Pot
Cuisine:Cajun
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or similar)
1 lb ground beef or sliced steak
1 small onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 cup crushed tomatoes or 2 tbsp tomato paste
2 cups chicken or beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
Add ground beef or sliced steak and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in Cajun seasoning, crushed tomatoes or tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Add uncooked pasta and broth. Stir to combine, ensuring pasta is mostly submerged.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and most liquid is absorbed.
Stir in heavy cream and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and thickened.
Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.Use cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy version.Swap beef for chicken, shrimp, or sausage if preferred.For dairy-free, use coconut milk or dairy-free cream.To loosen thick sauce, add a splash of broth when reheating.
