Cajun style beef pasta dish

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions.
2. While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
4. Drain off any excess grease.
5. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
7. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Drain pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce.
9. Toss to coat thoroughly. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and Parmesan cheese.

Notes

• For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• You can substitute Italian sausage for the ground beef.
• Serve with a crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.