When you think of Cajun cuisine, you imagine rich flavors, smoky spices, and bold, comforting dishes that warm the soul. Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Creamy Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce is exactly that—a fusion of Southern comfort and Italian heartiness. Imagine tender spaghetti tossed in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce infused with Cajun seasoning, juicy ground beef, and aromatic vegetables. It’s spicy, creamy, and irresistibly comforting—a one-pan meal that feels indulgent but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re craving something hearty with a twist, this Cajun beef spaghetti hits every note. The Cajun spices add just the right level of heat without overpowering the cheesy cream sauce. The beef gives it that satisfying, meaty richness, while the trio of cheeses—Parmesan, mozzarella, and cream cheese—creates a velvety sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti. It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with garlic bread or a crisp salad for the ultimate comfort dinner.
Ingredients
For the Cajun Beef:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or fettuccine
- Salt, for boiling water
For Garnish (optional):
- Chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water. - Prepare the Cajun Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat the beef and vegetables evenly. - Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw taste. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly until smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese until melted and creamy. - Add the Cheeses:
Lower the heat and mix in mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted. Add red pepper flakes if you prefer extra spice. The sauce should be smooth and rich—if it’s too thick, thin it out with a splash of the reserved pasta water. - Combine Everything:
Add the cooked beef mixture into the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly distributed. Then toss in the cooked spaghetti and mix until the pasta is completely coated in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer on low heat for 2–3 minutes so the flavors can meld together. - Serve:
Plate the spaghetti and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, spicy, cheesy bite!
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories
Approximately 540 kcal per serving.
Tips & Tricks 🍝
- Adjust the Spice Level: Cajun seasoning can vary in heat. Start with less and add more if you like it spicier.
- Homemade Cajun Mix: Blend paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of salt for a quick DIY mix.
- Make It Extra Creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or extra mozzarella right before serving.
- Use Other Meats: Swap ground beef for sausage, chicken, or even shrimp for a Cajun surf-and-turf vibe.
- Reheat Smoothly: When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the silky sauce consistency.
Flavor Variations 🔥
- Cajun Chicken Spaghetti: Substitute chicken breast or thighs for beef for a lighter but equally flavorful version.
- Smoky Bacon Boost: Add crisped bacon bits for extra smokiness and crunch.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a creamy veggie delight.
- Spicy Cajun Alfredo: Turn it into an Alfredo-style dish by skipping cheddar and focusing on Parmesan and cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Pair this rich Cajun beef spaghetti with warm garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with a light salad—something with tangy dressing to balance the creamy sauce. For a full Southern-inspired meal, serve alongside cornbread or sautéed greens.
Nutrition Information 💪
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Protein: 29 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
Why This Recipe Works ❤️
This recipe works because it balances spice and cream. The Cajun seasoning brings depth, the beef adds heartiness, and the three-cheese sauce ties everything together in velvety perfection. It’s a meal that comforts yet excites, satisfying pasta lovers and spice enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or a family dinner, Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Creamy Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce will always be a hit. The flavor layers build with every bite—creamy, smoky, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned. One forkful, and you’ll know why this is destined to become a weeknight favorite.
