Spice up your weeknight dinner routine with this vibrant and flavorful Cajun Pasta Chili! This recipe blends the comforting warmth of chili with the zest of Cajun spices and the satisfying texture of pasta, creating a delicious and easy meal the whole family will love. It's a perfect example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste – a quick dinner idea that's surprisingly satisfying. Forget takeout; this homemade cooking masterpiece is ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the Chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the chili has thickened slightly.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the chili and stir to combine. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and shredded cheddar cheese.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder chili, reduce the amount of spice. For a spicier kick, add more!
- Protein Power: Substitute ground chicken or sausage for the beef or turkey.
- Veggie Boost: Add other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Creamy Chili: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamier texture.
- Make it a One-Pot Meal: Reduce cooking time by using quick-cooking pasta like elbow macaroni.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Cajun Pasta Chili is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal! It's a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes, sure to become a family favorite. This quick dinner idea is ideal for busy weeknights, and its vibrant flavors will leave you wanting more!