Cajun Cheesy Beef Rotini (Printable Version)

# What You’ll Need:

01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 12 oz rotini pasta
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
09 - 1/2 cup whole milk
10 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
11 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
13 - 1 teaspoon salt
14 - 1/8 teaspoon pepper
15 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
16 - Fresh parsley, chopped (garnish)
17 - 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Boil rotini in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
02 - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
03 - Stir in Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices.
04 - Reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, pour in heavy cream and milk. Stir in the cream cheese, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until fully melted and smooth.
05 - Add in the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated in the cheesy sauce.
06 - Sprinkle with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.