Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
- 1½ lbs ground beef
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra gooeyness)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until just al dente, drain, and set aside. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once it begins to brown, season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Incorporate Velveeta cubes, Parmesan, mozzarella (if using), and cream cheese. Stir gently and constantly until everything melts into a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Step 4: Return the cooked linguine and seasoned beef to the skillet. Toss gently to coat every strand of pasta in the luscious Cajun cheese sauce. If it becomes too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Step 5: Plate the pasta hot, garnishing generously with chopped parsley. If desired, add extra Parmesan on top for an indulgent finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Cajun Beef Linguine ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce in advance. Simply store them separately from the pasta in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine everything in a skillet to heat through.
2. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, and even spinach can be sautéed with the beef for added nutrition and flavor.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though this may change the sauce’s creaminess slightly.
4. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish retains its flavor well and can be portioned out for quick, easy lunches or dinners during the week.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with other creamy cheeses like gouda, fontina, or even a dairy-free option if you need it to be lactose-free.
Conclusion
Cajun Beef Linguine in Creamy Velveeta Parmesan Garlic Sauce is a delectable dish that elevates your dinner experience. With its rich flavors and creamy sauce, this pasta dish will impress your family or guests alike. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite of this delightful recipe!
