One Pot Cajun Beef Cheddar (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 1 medium onion, chopped
03 - 1 bell pepper, chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
06 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
07 - 1 tsp salt
08 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
09 - 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
10 - 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
11 - 1 cup beef broth
12 - 1 cup heavy cream
13 - 8 oz elbow macaroni
14 - 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
15 - 1 tbsp olive oil
16 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
02 - To the beef, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
03 - Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the beef and vegetables with the spices.
04 - Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream cheese, beef broth, and heavy cream. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth.
05 - Add the pasta and bring everything to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
06 - Once the pasta is cooked and creamy, stir in the cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley.