Bring a little Southern spice to your dinner table with this Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight. This dish is a comforting, flavor-packed one-pot meal that combines bold Cajun seasoning with tender ground beef, hearty rotini pasta, and a luxuriously creamy sauce. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without demanding hours in the kitchen.

With each forkful, you’ll get the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and texture. The rotini is perfect for capturing every bit of the rich sauce, while the Cajun spice adds just the right kick to keep things interesting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress guests, this recipe will satisfy everyone around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight

This recipe is the ideal solution for busy nights when you want something comforting but don’t want to fuss over multiple pans. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but also versatile enough to be paired with your favorite veggies or a simple salad. The Cajun seasoning brings life to a basic beef and pasta combo, making it taste restaurant-quality with minimal effort.

What Kind of Rotini Should I Use?

You can use either classic semolina rotini or go for a whole wheat version if you’re looking for added fiber. The spirals of rotini hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring flavor in every bite. If you’re gluten-free, there are plenty of great gluten-free rotini options available too. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it holds its texture once it simmers in the sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight

The magic of this dish comes from its bold flavors and simple pantry ingredients. Most of what you need is likely already in your kitchen, making this a go-to meal when you want something tasty and hassle-free. Every ingredient plays a role in building that layered Cajun flavor and creamy richness.

Ground beef – This adds hearty protein and richness to the dish. Choose 80/20 for flavor or leaner cuts for a lighter option.
Rotini pasta – The spiral shape traps the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
Onion – Adds aromatic sweetness that balances the spice of the Cajun seasoning.
Garlic – Essential for depth and aroma, garlic brings a subtle warmth to the creamy base.
Cajun seasoning – The heart of the flavor in this dish, delivering bold, smoky, and spicy notes.
Heavy cream – Creates the luscious, velvety texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
Beef broth – Adds savory depth and thins the cream slightly for the perfect sauce consistency.
Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce to bring umami and sharpness.
Olive oil – Used for sautéing the aromatics and meat while adding a hint of richness.
Salt & pepper – Simple seasonings that bring everything together and enhance all the flavors.

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or deep saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once cooked through, season with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with spices.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the uncooked rotini. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and let cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

Step 4: Make it Creamy and Cheesy

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the lid and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes uncovered, allowing it to thicken to your liking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a pinch of Cajun spice for a pop of color.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight

This dish is perfect for feeding four to six people, depending on portion sizes. It’s rich and filling on its own, so you don’t need much to round it out. Serve it straight from the stovetop for a cozy weeknight dinner, or dress it up with fresh parsley and extra cheese for a more elevated presentation. Leftovers taste even better the next day as the Cajun flavors deepen.

To store, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container once cooled. Keep it refrigerated for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce back up and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread makes the perfect sidekick to soak up all that creamy Cajun sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and adds freshness to the plate.

Roasted Broccoli

Earthy, caramelized broccoli is a great veggie option that complements the smoky Cajun seasoning.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

The sweetness of corn works beautifully with the spice in this dish, especially grilled with a touch of butter.

Sauteed Green Beans

Tender-crisp green beans with a little garlic make for an easy, nutritious side.

Pickled Jalapeños

If you love extra heat, a few slices of pickled jalapeños on the side can kick things up a notch.

Caesar Salad

Creamy Caesar dressing and crunchy croutons offer a nice contrast in both flavor and texture.

Southern-Style Biscuits

Fluffy biscuits are always a win with a creamy, comforting pasta like this one.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight hit the spot, you’re going to love exploring these other flavorful favorites from Mia Plates:

Try this ultra-satisfying Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for another quick and hearty comfort food classic.
Looking for something with a twist? The Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce delivers a gooey, cheesy punch.
For Alfredo lovers, the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is rich, savory, and weeknight-friendly.
Don’t miss the Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe if you love pasta dishes that bring comfort with every bite.
Need a one-pot option with a bit of sausage? The One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is packed with smoky, savory flavors.