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One pot Cajun beef and cheddar pasta is the answer to busy nights when you crave comfort but need dinner to come together fast. The deep flavors of spiced beef and creamy cheddar make this a dish that disappears in no time at my table
My family devoured this the first time I put it out I love that it lets me use just what is in the pantry and fridge without fuss or mess
Ingredients
- Ground beef: A flavorful protein base that soaks up all the Cajun spices Look for beef with some fat for best flavor
- Chopped onion: Adds natural sweetness and aroma Choose firm onions with shiny skin
- Bell pepper: Brings color crunch and subtle sweetness Red or yellow peppers work well
- Garlic: Delivers depth and warmth Use fresh cloves for best flavor
- Cajun seasoning: Packs a spicy punch Use your favorite blend with moderate heat
- Smoked paprika: Adds smokiness and complexity Opt for real smoked rather than sweet paprika
- Salt: Essential for balancing all the flavors Use kosher salt if possible
- Black pepper: Contributes gentle heat and earthiness Fresh cracked is best
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Gives acidity and a little kick Use high quality canned tomatoes
- Cream cheese: Creates a luscious velvety sauce Soften before using for easy mixing
- Beef broth: Enhances savory flavors Choose low sodium for more control over seasoning
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce extra rich and luxurious Fresh cream gives best results
- Elbow macaroni: Perfect pasta for soaking up sauce Buy good quality so it holds its shape
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey satisfying strands Go for sharp cheddar and shred your own if possible
- Olive oil: Helps brown the beef and start the aromatics Use extra virgin for best taste
- Fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color Flat leaf parsley has better flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy bottomed pot on medium Cook the ground beef breaking it up until fully browned and no pink remains about seven minutes Drain off most of the fat so the sauce will not become greasy
- Sauté Vegetables and Garlic:
- Add chopped onion bell pepper and garlic Stir and cook for about three to four minutes until vegetables are tender and the garlic is fragrant The vegetables start the flavor base and soften nicely
- Spice It Up:
- Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning smoked paprika salt and black pepper Stir to fully coat the meat and veggies so every bite gets spice This step is where all the smoky heat comes alive
- Build the Sauce:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices softened cream cheese beef broth and heavy cream Stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted giving you a smooth creamy sauce This transformation is important for a rich texture
- Add Pasta and Simmer:
- Stir in the macaroni and bring to a gentle simmer Cover and cook for about ten to twelve minutes stirring every few minutes so the pasta cooks evenly and nothing sticks Stop when the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened
- Finish with Cheese:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and the pasta looks creamy and glossy Taste and adjust seasoning for salt or spice if needed
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Scoop into bowls and scatter with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness
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I always look forward to folding in the cheddar cheese at the end That moment brings back memories of my mom making cheesy skillet dinners for us after soccer games Everyone loved the smell as the cheese melted
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The creamy sauce thickens after sitting so you can add a splash of milk or broth when reheating If freezing cool completely before freezing and reheat gently on the stove
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Ingredient Substitutions
You can try ground turkey for a lighter dish If you want less heat swap plain diced tomatoes for the ones with green chilies Monterey Jack or pepper jack can stand in for cheddar Cheese blends work well if you only have bits left in the fridge
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a light green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal This pasta also pairs well with roasted broccoli or a crisp slaw For a party keep it on warm in a slow cooker and let guests help themselves
Cultural Context
Inspired by the bold comforting flavors of Louisiana Cajun cooking this dish delivers spice without being overpowering The tradition of one pot meals runs deep in Southern kitchens bringing families together around the table
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes this dish creamy?
The combination of cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the pasta and beef.
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape like penne or rotini, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
- → Is this meal spicy?
The Cajun seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies add a noticeable kick, but you can adjust the amount of spice to your taste.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Allow the dish to cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
- → Can I make this meal ahead of time?
You can prepare the dish up to two days in advance. Reheat before serving, stirring in additional liquid if the sauce has thickened too much.