One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta with Lots of Veg

If you’re craving bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen, this One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta with Lots of Veg is the perfect healthy comfort meal. It’s spicy, satisfying, and loaded with colorful vegetables—all cooked in a single pot for minimal cleanup. This recipe balances lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and hearty pasta, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

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🌶️ Why This Cajun Beef Pasta Is Healthy

• One-pot cooking locks in flavor and nutrients

• Lean beef provides high-quality protein and iron

• Lots of vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants

• Controlled spice & oil keep it lighter without sacrificing taste

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🥕 Vegetables That Make It Nutritious

This recipe is flexible, but these veggies work especially well:

• Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)

• Zucchini or courgette

• Mushrooms

• Spinach or kale

• Red onion

• Tomatoes (fresh or canned)

The more color you add, the more nutrients you get!

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🥘 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 250 g whole wheat or regular pasta

• 300 g lean ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced

• 1 cup zucchini, diced

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

• 1½ cups low-sodium beef or vegetable broth

• 1 cup crushed tomatoes

• 1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• 1 cup spinach or kale

• Fresh parsley or spring onion, for garnish

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🍝 How to Make One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta

1. Sauté the beef
   Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove excess fat if needed.

2. Add aromatics & veggies
   Stir in onion and garlic, then add bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

3. Season it up
   Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat everything.

4. One-pot magic
   Add pasta, broth, and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Finish with greens
   Stir in spinach or kale and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.

6. Serve & enjoy
   Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

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🌿 Healthy Tips & Variations

• Swap beef for lean chicken or turkey for a lighter option

• Use chickpea or lentil pasta for extra protein

• Reduce spice by using half Cajun seasoning

• Add a spoon of Greek yogurt instead of cream for creaminess

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🥗 Perfect For

• Busy weeknight dinners

• Family-friendly healthy meals

• Meal prep (keeps well for up to 3 days)