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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Beef

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Beef: Cheesy & Easy One-Pan Dinner


  • Author: Emily Wilkinson
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Ingredients

Scale

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-by-Step Preparation

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