Spicy One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta – Simple & Delicious

Looking for a flavorful and easy dinner idea? This One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta is packed with spicy Cajun flavors and loads of fresh veggies, making it a hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it all cooks in one pot for quick cleanup! If you love simple pasta dishes, don’t miss our Quick Tuna Pasta recipe — another fast and delicious option to keep your dinners exciting.

Ingredients:

For the Cajun Spice Blend:

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped)
• 1 tbsp paprika (sweet/regular, not smoked or spicy)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (or substitute with 2 extra fresh garlic cloves)
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or chicken/turkey/pork, increase Cajun spice and fat if substituting)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (add more if using leaner meat)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper (capsicum), chopped
• 1 medium zucchini, grated
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 cup cooked kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 28 oz (800g) crushed canned tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup chicken stock (or broth)
• 1 cup water
• 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
• 1/2 cup Colby or cheddar cheese, shredded (optional, for melting on top)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Guide to One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta :

Grate the carrot and zucchini using a standard box grater, aiming for shorter strands that blend seamlessly into the pasta sauce. There’s no need to peel the carrot—keeping the skin adds extra nutrition.

For cooking, use a large, heavy-based pot with a lid; a 24cm (9.5-inch) cast iron pot works perfectly and can hold plenty of ingredients.

Heat the oil over high heat, then sauté the diced onion and minced garlic first to infuse the oil with flavor. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until it turns from red to a rich brown color.

Cook the grated carrot and zucchini until their water evaporates, about 2 minutes, then add the capsicum and cook for 2 more minutes until softened. Stir in tomato paste and Cajun spices, cooking 1 minute to blend flavors.

Add canned tomatoes, water (to rinse the cans), chicken stock, and beans. Stir well, bring to a simmer, then add the pasta.

Once simmering, cover the pot and reduce heat to medium so the liquid gently simmers—avoid boiling too hard or sitting still. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.

Cook for about 15 minutes until the pasta is almost done (slightly firm in the center) and the sauce is still watery. This ensures the pasta finishes cooking perfectly later. Pause here if making ahead (see tips below).

Cheese it! Stir the pasta once to even it out, then sprinkle cheese on top.

Cover, turn off the heat, and let it sit for 3 minutes so the residual heat melts the cheese. Then lift the lid and enjoy that delicious, cheesy goodness! ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Pro Tips :

• Fresh Cajun spice blend = best flavor.
• Grate zucchini and carrot for a smooth sauce.
• Simmer pasta gently and stir often.
• Make ahead: cook pasta almost done, then reheat.
• Use melty cheeses like Colby or cheddar.
• Kidney beans add protein and texture.
• Adjust cayenne to control spice level.
• Cook in a heavy pot to prevent sticking.

This One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta is a delicious, veggie-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and requires minimal cleanup—ideal for any pasta lover’s kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty, satisfying dinner!

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