Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound rotini pasta
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the rotini in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once browned, drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Add diced onion to the beef and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 more minute until everything is fragrant and well coated.
Step 4: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring often, until it starts to thicken.
Step 5: Turn the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until it melts completely. Add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Add the cooked rotini and seasoned beef mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh chives.
Nutrition
- Calories: 750
- Sodium: 620
- Protein: 37