Description
A bold and comforting one-pot pasta dish combining spicy Cajun-seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheddar cheese, perfect for an easy weeknight meal.
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
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in Cajun seasoning, adjusting to taste.
- Add beef broth and pasta to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or green onions if desired.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Try other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg