Name: One Pot Cajun Beef and Cheddar Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 12 oz pasta (penne or elbow); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste); 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

This One Pot Cajun Beef and Cheddar Pasta is a bold, hearty, and comforting dish that comes together with minimal cleanup. The spicy kick from Cajun seasoning blends perfectly with savory ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheddar. It’s the kind of easy, satisfying recipe I keep coming back to after a long day. One Pot Cajun Beef and Cheddar Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish packs so much flavor into one pot, making cleanup super simple. It’s great for busy weeknights when I want something filling and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The Cajun spices add just the right amount of heat, and the melty cheddar ties everything together for a deliciously creamy finish. It’s also easy to customize based on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Pasta (penne or elbow work great)
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Cajun seasoning
Onion
Garlic
Beef broth
Diced tomatoes (optional for extra flavor)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

I start by heating a bit of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
I add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until softened.
Then I stir in the ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
I mix in the Cajun seasoning, adjusting the heat level to taste.
Next, I pour in the beef broth and add the pasta directly to the pot.
I bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.
Once the pasta is cooked, I stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
I serve it hot, garnished with extra cheese or chopped green onions if I’m feeling fancy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. From start to finish, it takes around 30 to 35 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick weeknight favorite.

Variations

Sometimes I switch things up by using spicy Italian sausage instead of beef for extra flavor. If I want a lighter version, I use ground turkey or chicken. I also like tossing in some bell peppers or spinach for added veggies. And when I’m in the mood for something extra cheesy, I mix in a bit of mozzarella along with the cheddar.

Storage/reheating

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When I reheat it, I usually add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up and microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. It can also be reheated gently on the stovetop over low heat.

FAQs

How spicy is this dish?

That depends on the Cajun seasoning I use. Some blends are mild while others are quite hot. I adjust the amount to suit my taste or use a milder mix if needed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes make it a day ahead and reheat when ready to serve. The flavors even deepen after sitting overnight.

What type of pasta works best?

I usually go with short pasta like penne, elbow, or rotini. These shapes hold the sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free pasta and make sure the Cajun seasoning and beef broth I use are certified gluten-free.

What cheese can I use besides cheddar?

Cheddar gives a rich, sharp flavor, but I’ve also used Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a mix of cheeses for different tastes.

Conclusion

This One Pot Cajun Beef and Cheddar Pasta is the perfect blend of spicy, cheesy, and comforting. I love how easy it is to make, clean up, and customize. Whether I’m feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe always hits the spot.