Description

A spicy, veggie-packed one pot pasta that’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. Loaded with Cajun flavor and nutritious veggies, it’s a hearty meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 medium zucchini, grated
1 medium carrot, grated
1 cup cooked kidney beans
28 oz crushed canned tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup chicken stock
1 cup water
8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
1 tbsp homemade Cajun spice blend (or store-bought)
½ cup shredded cheddar or Colby cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Heat oil in a large pot; sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add ground beef; cook until browned.
Stir in grated carrot, zucchini, and chopped bell pepper; cook 4 minutes.
Mix in tomato paste and Cajun spices; cook 1 minute.
Add tomatoes, stock, water, kidney beans; bring to simmer.
Add pasta, cover, and cook on medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
When pasta is almost done, sprinkle cheese on top, cover, and turn off heat. Let sit 3 minutes until cheese melts.
Garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

Use a heavy-based pot to prevent sticking.

Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level.

You can swap beef for chicken or turkey but increase spices and oil slightly.

Grated veggies blend into the sauce, adding nutrition without extra bulk.

Make ahead: stop cooking when pasta is almost done, refrigerate, then reheat and add cheese.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 480 kcal
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 35g