Cajun Beef Spaghetti in Creamy

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Cajun Beef Spaghetti in Creamy Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce – A Bold, Cheesy Comfort Classic

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s rich, spicy, and unapologetically indulgent, this Cajun Beef Spaghetti in Creamy Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce is your new go-to. It’s a fusion of Southern spice and Italian comfort, where tender spaghetti is tossed in a velvety cheese sauce infused with Cajun heat and studded with savory ground beef. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table—and keeps them coming back for seconds.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or anytime you want to shake up your pasta routine with something bold and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Big, bold flavor – Cajun spices bring smoky heat and depth to every bite.
  • Creamy and cheesy – A luscious blend of Parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella coats every strand of pasta.
  • Hearty and filling – Ground beef adds protein and richness.
  • One-skillet sauce – Easy cleanup and fast prep.
  • Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or add veggies.

Ingredients

This recipe serves 6 generous portions.

Pasta & Protein

  • 12 oz spaghetti
    Classic pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • 1½ lbs ground beef
    Use lean beef for a rich, meaty base without excess grease.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    For sautéing and flavor.

Seasonings & Aromatics

  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
    Adds smoky, spicy Southern flair.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
    Deepens the flavor with a hint of char.
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
    Enhances the savory base.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    Adds depth and warmth.
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
    Essential for balance.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    Fresh garlic brings bold, aromatic flavor

Creamy Cheese Sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream
    The base of the rich, velvety sauce.
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Salty, nutty, and essential for depth.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
    Cheddar adds sharpness; mozzarella adds creaminess and stretch.
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
    Helps loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
    Adds color and a fresh finish.

Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander
  • Chef’s knife and cutting board
  • Grater (for fresh cheese)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.

Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water.

Drain the pasta and set aside.

Tip: Toss the cooked pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.

Add 1½ lbs ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked—about 6–8 minutes.

Season with:

  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Stir to coat the beef evenly in the spices.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Build the Sauce

Add 4 cloves minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, just until fragrant.

Pour in 1 cup heavy cream, stirring to combine.

Reduce heat to low and add:

  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy—about 3–5 minutes.

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Tip: Add the pasta water gradually—it’s starchy and helps the sauce cling to the noodles.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet.

Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy Cajun cheese sauce.

Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, colorful finish.

Serve hot, with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.

Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Calories: ~580 kcal per serving (approximate)

Tips for Success

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest melt and best flavor.
  • Adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente holds up better in creamy sauces.
  • Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for extra nutrition.
  • Make it ahead: The sauce can be made in advance and reheated gently with a splash of cream or broth.

Variations to Try

  • Cajun Chicken Spaghetti: Swap ground beef for diced or shredded chicken.
  • Seafood Twist: Use shrimp or crawfish for a coastal Cajun vibe.
  • Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms.
  • Baked Casserole: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil until bubbly.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve the sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with:

  • A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
  • Garlic bread or cheesy toast
  • Roasted broccoli or asparagus
  • A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling lemonad

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Beef Spaghetti in Creamy Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce is a bold, comforting dish that brings together the best of Southern spice and Italian indulgence. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself to a cozy night in.

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