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One-Pot Creamy Cajun Meatball Pasta Recipe

5 from 50 reviews

This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Meatball Pasta combines tender meatballs with a creamy, flavorful Cajun sauce, all cooked in one skillet for a quick and satisfying meal. The dish features penne or rotini pasta simmered in a rich blend of chicken broth and heavy cream, seasoned with bold Cajun spices and topped with Parmesan cheese for added richness.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs and Pasta

  • 1 lb meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 small onion (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Liquids and Seasonings

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté Onion & Garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes.
  4. Add the Cream & Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Combine: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and mix them in with the pasta. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve: Serve the creamy Cajun meatball pasta hot and enjoy the rich, flavorful meal!

Notes

  • For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
  • You can prepare homemade meatballs to reduce preservatives and customize flavors.
  • Ensure to stir frequently while cooking pasta in broth to prevent sticking.

Keywords: Cajun pasta, meatball pasta, creamy pasta, one-pot meal, quick dinner, Cajun seasoning, penne pasta, skillet pasta