Name: One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1 onion, chopped; 500g / 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium carrot, shredded; 1 medium zucchini, shredded; 1 red bell pepper (capsicum), chopped; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 800g / 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes; 400g / 14 oz kidney beans, drained; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or beef broth); 2 cups water; 350g / 12 oz (3 cups) short pasta (elbow, penne, spirals, or shells); 1½ cups shredded Colby or other good melting cheese; 1 green onion stem, finely sliced (optional garnish); Cajun Spice Mix:; 1½ tsp dried thyme; 1½ tbsp paprika (sweet, not smoked); 2 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional); ¼ tsp black pepper; 1¼ tsp kosher salt

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This One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta is a flavor-packed, veggie-loaded meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. With bold Cajun spices, creamy melted cheese, and hidden vegetables like shredded carrot, zucchini, and red capsicum, it’s a complete dinner in one pot. Ideal for busy families and perfect for leftovers, this hearty recipe makes a little ground beef go a long way and delivers maximum taste in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a crowd-pleaser that checks every box: rich, cheesy, spicy, and filled with vegetables. It’s a balanced meal made in a single pot—less mess, less time, and fewer dishes. The Cajun seasoning brings a smoky, savory punch, while the pasta and cheese keep it kid-friendly and comforting. It’s perfect for meal prep, feeding a large group, or sneaking extra veggies into your family’s diet without complaints. One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 onion, chopped
500g / 1 lb ground beef
1 medium carrot, shredded
1 medium zucchini, shredded
1 red bell pepper (capsicum), chopped
2 tbsp tomato paste
800g / 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
400g / 14 oz kidney beans, drained
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or beef broth)
2 cups water
350g / 12 oz (3 cups) short pasta (elbow, penne, spirals, or shells)
1½ cups shredded Colby or other good melting cheese
1 green onion stem, finely sliced (optional garnish)

Cajun Spice Mix:

1½ tsp dried thyme
1½ tbsp paprika (sweet, not smoked)
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
¼ tsp black pepper
1¼ tsp kosher salt

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-based pot with a lid over high heat.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Stir in ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s no longer pink.
Add shredded carrot and zucchini. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing moisture to evaporate.
Stir in chopped red capsicum and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add tomato paste and all the Cajun spice mix. Stir well and cook for 1 minute to develop flavor.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, water, broth, and kidney beans. Stir and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the pasta, stir again, then cover with a lid and reduce the heat to medium.
Let simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente.
Stir the mixture, smooth the surface, and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
Cover the pot again, turn off the heat, and let it sit for 3 minutes to melt the cheese.
Garnish with sliced green onion if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 7–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 480 kcal per serving

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit the beef and double the beans or add lentils for protein.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese before serving for a richer texture.
Spicier Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to taste.
Different Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options as needed.
Add Greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage all work well with the Cajun flavors.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild to moderate kick, but you can easily adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.

Can I leave out the cheese?

Yes, but the cheese adds creaminess and richness. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What kind of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, elbows, or shells is ideal because it cooks evenly and holds the sauce well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s great for meal prep and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.

Will the veggies get mushy?

No, since they’re added at different stages, they retain some texture and blend well with the sauce.

Can I skip the beans?

Yes, but they help stretch the dish and add plant-based protein. You can substitute with lentils or chickpeas.

How can I make it creamier?

Add a splash of cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese at the end for extra creaminess.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

This recipe is best on the stovetop since pasta can become too soft in a slow cooker.

What should I serve with it?

It’s a complete meal, but a side salad or crusty bread pairs nicely for a fuller spread.

Conclusion

One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta is the perfect mix of comfort food and smart cooking. Loaded with veggies, packed with bold Cajun spices, and finished with melted cheese, this meal is easy, hearty, and sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or planning leftovers, it’s a flavorful and convenient recipe to keep in your rotation.