Go Back

Insanely Glossy Cajun Meatball Pasta

A bold and creamy Cajun-inspired pasta with juicy spiced meatballs coated in a glossy, rich tomato-cream sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Fusion
Calories: 680
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatballs
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg large
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp parsley chopped
Pasta
  • 12 oz rigatoni or fettuccine pasta
Cajun Glossy Sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1.5 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup beef broth
  • 0.5 cup parmesan cheese grated

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Large skillet
  • Pot for pasta
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley. Form meatballs.
  2. Sear meatballs in a skillet until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  3. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve pasta water and drain.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté onion in butter until soft, then add garlic and spices.
  5. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, and cream. Simmer until glossy and slightly thickened.
  6. Return meatballs to sauce and simmer until fully cooked.
  7. Toss pasta into sauce, add parmesan, and mix until glossy and coated.
  8. Serve hot with parsley and extra parmesan.

Notes

Use pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a glossy finish.