Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cook the Spaghetti
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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.
