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Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti brings together spicy flavors with a luscious cheese sauce for a pasta night that feels like a little party at home. This recipe turns a simple weeknight meal into something memorable thanks to its bold seasoning and silky cheese blend.
When I first served this to my family everyone went for seconds and the kids even asked for it again just days later. The first time I made this we were craving cozy but exciting comfort food. I loved how the creamy sauce mellowed the Cajun kick just enough that everyone could enjoy it together.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti Pasta: Holds the bold sauce well Choose classic semolina pasta for best bite
- Ground Beef: Brings a hearty savory element For extra flavor use sirloin if possible
- Cajun Seasoning: Delivers just the right amount of heat and complex flavor Make your own blend or use a trusted store bought version
- Heavy Cream: Creates a silky smooth base Look for cream with a clean dairy scent
- Parmesan Cheese: Gives salty umami richness Grate your own from a wedge for best melt
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Offers tang and depth Freshly shredded melts best
- Mozzarella Cheese: Provides creamy stretch Pick whole milk mozzarella for ultimate gooeyness
- Fresh Garlic: Wakes up the sauce and beef Go for firm heads with tight skins
- Olive Oil: For sautéing and extra flavor Use a fruity extra virgin oil if you have it
- Butter: Adds tasty richness to the sauce Unsalted lets you control the salt level
- Fresh Parsley: Provides color and brightness Chop just before serving for freshest taste
Instructions
- Bring the Water and Boil the Pasta:
- Get a large pot filled with water on the stove and add a generous amount of salt This helps season the pasta as it cooks Drop in your spaghetti and boil until it is tender with a little bite This usually takes around ten minutes Drain it well but save some of the pasta water for later to finish the sauce
- Brown the Beef with Cajun Flavor:
- While your pasta cooks heat olive oil in a large wide skillet over medium high Add your ground beef and break it up as it cooks Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning salt and pepper over it as it browns Let it sear for those lovely crispy edges and cook through Remove the beef to a plate and set aside
- Build the Garlic Cream Base:
- Lower the skillet heat to medium Drop in the butter and let it melt Add in the garlic stirring just until the fragrance fills your kitchen but do not let it brown
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Pour in your heavy cream and gently bring the mixture to a simmer This will help melt the cheese quickly Without rushing slowly add in your mozzarella cheddar and parmesan a handful at a time Stir constantly and watch for a creamy sauce with no lumps
- Toss Pasta and Bring it Together:
- Slide your cooked spaghetti right into that pan with the creamy cheese sauce Add a splash of saved pasta water if the mixture looks too thick Stir thoroughly until every noodle is coated with cheese
- Add Beef Back and Finish:
- Return your seasoned beef to the skillet with the cheesy spaghetti Gently fold everything to mix Let it bubble for a minute or two so the flavors meld
- Serve and Garnish:
- Plate up the creamy Cajun beef spaghetti and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and plenty more parmesan if you love extra flavor
My favorite part is watching the mozzarella give that perfect cheese pull as you swirl the pasta on your fork. The first time I made this for my dad he said it was hands down his new favorite way to do both spaghetti and Cajun together.
Storage and Leftover Tips
After the meal is over keep any remaining pasta in a tight container in your fridge It will last up to four days. A splash of milk or cream while reheating helps restore the sauce’s silky texture. If planning for leftovers cook your pasta just shy of done so it stays perfect on reheating.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If you prefer chicken simply sub diced chicken breast or thigh for the beef. Use gluten free pasta if needed. Half and half can stand in for heavy cream for a lighter dish. Nutty Asiago or fontina can be swapped for any of the cheeses if you like experimenting.
Perfect Ways to Serve This
A good garlic bread is hard to beat when paired with this pasta A simple tomato salad with a squeeze of lemon cuts through the richness. Roasted broccoli or asparagus makes for a vibrant and healthy plate.
The fun thing about this dish is how it matches the spirit of Cajun cooking bold daring and always crowd pleasing. Give it your own touch and you may find it becomes a new classic in your kitchen too.
Recipe Q&A
- → How spicy is this Cajun pasta?
The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning and how much you use. Start with less and taste as you go.
- → Can I substitute another protein for beef?
Yes, chicken or turkey are great substitutes. Adjust cooking time to suit your protein of choice.
- → How do I make the sauce extra creamy?
Use full-fat heavy cream and whisk the cheeses in slowly for a smooth, rich texture.
- → Do I have to use all three cheeses?
No, you can use a combination of your favorites or just what you have on hand, but the blend adds depth.
- → What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and create a silkier consistency.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.