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Homemade Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Creamy Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce photo

Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Creamy Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce

This Cajun Beef Spaghetti is SO FLAVORFUL! Spicy beef meets a creamy three-cheese Parmesan sauce for a quick, comforting meal under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces spaghetti — the perfect base to absorb all that creamy sauce
  • 1 pound ground beef — lean or regular, depending on preference
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning — the star spice blend for that authentic flavor
  • 1 cup heavy cream — for the rich, luscious sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese — melts beautifully for stretch and creaminess
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese — adds sharp, nutty depth
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese — for a hint of tang and color
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil — to sauté the aromatics and brown the beef
  • 1 small onion diced — builds a savory flavor base
  • 3 cloves garlic minced — for that irresistible aroma
  • salt and pepper to taste — to season perfectly
  • fresh parsley chopped — for garnish and a fresh finish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Cook the Spaghetti
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti in a colander. Set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
Season the Beef
  1. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over the browned beef. Stir well to coat the meat with the spices. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind the cheese will add some saltiness later.
Make the Creamy Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce
  1. Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the beef and stir to combine. Gradually add the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and shredded cheddar, stirring constantly until the cheeses melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
  1. Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the creamy Cajun beef mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every strand of pasta with the sauce. Warm through for 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright, herbal note and a pop of color. Serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Notes

  • To adjust spice level, modify the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preference.
  • Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if it becomes too thick or clumpy.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.