Description
Turn up the flavor with this bold and creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti in Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce—a spicy, rich twist on classic pasta dishes. Tender spaghetti meets seasoned beef and a silky cheese sauce made from Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar, all finished in the oven until bubbly and golden. It’s the perfect solution for anyone looking for easy dinner recipes, comfort food ideas, or quick family meals. Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself to a restaurant-style dish at home, this is a must-try. Great for busy weeknights or indulgent weekend cooking, this pasta hits every flavor note with just the right amount of kick.
Ingredients
400g spaghetti
500g lean ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
½ cup beef broth
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup crushed tomatoes
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon red chili flakes
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Extra Parmesan (for topping)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef to the skillet. Break apart and cook until browned. Season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in beef broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.
6. Lower the heat and stir in crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Mix well and let it simmer until slightly thickened.
7. Add Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until the sauce is smooth. Add red chili flakes if using.
8. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and combine thoroughly. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
9. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Top the pasta with extra cheese and bake for 10–12 minutes.
10. Broil for 1–2 minutes for a bubbly golden crust, if desired.
11. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
For best results, always use freshly grated cheese to achieve a smoother sauce.
Slightly undercook the pasta to avoid mushiness when baked.
Let the cream sit at room temperature before adding to avoid splitting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 615
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: cajun spaghetti, creamy pasta, cheesy beef pasta, easy dinner, comfort food