Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce

A rich, indulgent twist on a comfort classic, this Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce is a dish that grabs attention the moment it hits the table. Featuring perfectly cooked al dente spaghetti smothered in a luscious three-cheese sauce, the recipe gets its bold kick from a spicy Cajun beef ragu, slow-simmered to perfection. Finished with bubbling golden cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this dish is more than a meal—it’s a full sensory experience.

Each bite balances creamy, spicy, savory, and umami flavors while delivering just the right touch of heat. The Cajun spices wake up the rich beef and blend seamlessly into the cheese sauce, creating a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors. Whether you're planning a cozy dinner, a special treat for friends, or just want to take your pasta game to the next level, this recipe is unapologetically indulgent and unforgettable.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce

• Bold & Comforting: The Cajun seasoning kicks up the flavor, while the cheesy base wraps every bite in creamy comfort.
• Restaurant-Worthy at Home: It looks and tastes like something from a high-end bistro, but it’s surprisingly easy to make.
• Perfect for Cheese Lovers: With mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan, this dish is a cheese-lover’s dream.
• Satisfies Big Appetites: Hearty ground beef and pasta make this a filling and crowd-pleasing dinner.
• Versatile Heat Level: Easily adjust the spice to suit everyone at your table.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it ahead, refrigerate, and reheat—flavors deepen beautifully.
• One-Skillet Finish: Baked right in the skillet for a golden cheese crust and minimal cleanup.
• Great for Entertaining: It’s dramatic, rich, and guaranteed to impress your guests.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce

Before diving into this flavor-loaded pasta masterpiece, a little preparation goes a long way. Having everything prepped and tools ready makes the cooking process smooth and efficient—and ensures that the cheesy sauce doesn’t miss its perfect moment.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan
  This is where the magic happens. A cast iron skillet retains heat well, giving you that bubbling, golden cheese crust at the end.
• Saucepan or Pasta Pot
  For boiling the spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente.
• Colander
  To drain the pasta without losing any strands or causing a soggy mess.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
  Ideal for breaking up and browning the beef evenly while mixing the Cajun spices into every bite.
• Cheese Grater
  Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded options, especially Parmesan.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups
  Cajun spice has a punch—you’ll want to get that balance just right.
• Mixing Bowl (Optional)
  Useful for combining cheeses or blending spices before cooking.

Having these tools ready and accessible ensures you get a well-mixed sauce, evenly browned beef, and pasta that soaks up every drop of flavor.

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Preparation Tips

• Prep All Ingredients First: Dice the onions, grate the cheese, and measure your spices before turning on the stove. This mise en place approach keeps you in control once the heat is on.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Since the spaghetti will finish in the skillet with the cheese and sauce, undercook it slightly (1–2 minutes less than the box says) to avoid a mushy final result.
• Drain, Don’t Rinse: Keep that pasta starch—it helps the cheese sauce cling to every strand.
• Let the Beef Brown Properly: Don’t rush it. Letting the beef sit untouched for a minute or two at a time while browning develops deeper flavor and texture.
• Use Room Temp Cheese: Cold cheese can seize up when added to the sauce. Let it sit out while you cook the meat.
• Balance the Cajun Heat: Taste as you go—Cajun spice blends can vary. Start small and build up the flavor.

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Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce

This recipe layers bold, spicy flavors with rich, creamy cheeses to deliver a pasta dish that’s both comforting and unforgettable. Below is the full list of ingredients you'll need to recreate this indulgent meal at home.

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For the Cajun Beef Sauce

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef – Use 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and fat.
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning – Adjust depending on your heat tolerance.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Optional, for extra heat.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ cup beef broth – Helps loosen the sauce and deepen the savory flavor.
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing.

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For the Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Forms the base of a light roux.
• 1 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half – Warmed, for a smooth blend.
• ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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For the Pasta

• 10 oz (280g) spaghetti – Classic, but you can substitute with linguine or fettuccine.
• Salted water – For boiling pasta.

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To Finish & Garnish

• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar – For broiling on top.
• Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped – Adds color and freshness.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, for serving.

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Every element plays a role—from the spicy Cajun beef that brings depth and heat, to the creamy, cheesy sauce that soothes and binds everything together. When combined with tender pasta and a golden-baked finish, it becomes a showstopping dish worth every bite.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce

Now that everything’s prepped, it’s time to bring all those bold, comforting flavors together. This dish comes together in layers—starting with the Cajun beef, then the creamy cheese sauce, and finally the pasta before getting baked to perfection.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions).
3. Drain the pasta—but do not rinse—and set aside. Reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water.

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Step 2: Make the Cajun Beef Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Let it brown, stirring occasionally.
5. Once beef is mostly browned, add Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Stir in tomato paste and let it cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
7. Pour in beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning. Turn off the heat and set aside.

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Step 3: Prepare the Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce

1. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Simmer the sauce gently until it thickens (about 4–5 minutes).
5. Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan, a handful at a time. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If too thick, add a splash of pasta water.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Beef

1. Add the drained spaghetti into the Cajun beef skillet.
2. Pour in the cheese sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and glossy.
3. If needed, add a splash of pasta water to loosen things up.

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Step 5: Bake and Finish

1. Preheat your oven broiler (high heat).
2. Sprinkle additional mozzarella or cheddar over the top of the pasta mixture in the skillet.
3. Broil for 2–4 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown on top. Watch closely to avoid burning.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the oven. Let it rest for 2–3 minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and extra red pepper flakes if desired.
3. Serve hot and dig into creamy, spicy, cheesy perfection.

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Notes

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grating your own ensures a silky, creamy sauce.
• Customize the Spice Level: Not all Cajun seasoning blends are created equal. Taste yours first and adjust the quantity if you're heat-sensitive.
• Make It a One-Pan Dish: If your skillet is oven-safe and large enough, you can combine everything and bake it directly—less cleanup, more flavor meld.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta: Since the pasta finishes cooking in the sauce and under the broiler, pulling it out too late initially will lead to a mushy texture. Always go for just under al dente.
• Letting the Cheese Sauce Boil: When making the roux-based cheese sauce, never let it boil—this can cause it to separate or become grainy. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Skipping the Simmer on the Beef: Don’t rush the Cajun beef. Simmering it with broth and spices helps meld the flavors and adds depth to the overall dish.
• Over-salting Early: Remember that cheese and Cajun seasoning both contain salt. Taste your components before adding more.
• Not Preheating the Broiler: Going under a cold broiler won’t give you that beautifully melted, golden cheese crust—always preheat for max effect.
• Using Cold Milk in the Cheese Sauce: Cold milk can cause lumps in your roux. Slightly warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop before incorporating.

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What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce?

This rich and flavorful pasta is a standalone stunner, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the entire meal. Think freshness, crunch, and acidity to balance out the creamy, cheesy, and spicy depth of the dish.

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8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread with Herbs
   Crunchy on the outside, soft inside, and loaded with buttery garlic—this classic is ideal for scooping up leftover sauce.
2. Simple Arugula Salad
   Peppery arugula tossed in lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness with bright, clean flavors.
3. Roasted Broccoli or Cauliflower
   A touch of char and seasoning on oven-roasted veggies pairs perfectly with the Cajun kick.
4. Crisp Caesar Salad
   The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons echo the comfort factor while adding a fresh, tangy contrast.
5. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
   Light, slightly bitter asparagus brightened with lemon zest balances the bold beef and cheese.
6. Pickled Red Onions or Jalapeños
   Add acidity and bite—great for those who enjoy a little extra tang on the side.
7. Sweet Corn on the Cob or Cornbread
   Sweetness from corn provides a nice contrast to the smoky, spicy undertones of the pasta.
8. Sparkling Water with Lime or a Dry White Wine
   A crisp beverage (alcoholic or not) helps cleanse the palate between rich, creamy bites.

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Storage Instructions

This dish keeps well and reheats beautifully, making it a solid choice for leftovers or meal prepping ahead. Here's how to store it properly:

• Refrigerator:
  Let the pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to deepen over time, which makes leftovers even better!
• Freezer:
  For longer storage, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tips:
  • For microwave: Add a splash of milk or broth, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between.
  • For stovetop: Reheat in a non-stick pan over low heat with a bit of added liquid to loosen the sauce.
  • For oven: Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—about 15–20 minutes.

Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese sauce from separating or becoming greasy.

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Estimated Nutrition

Note: Values are estimates based on one serving out of six.

• Calories: ~630 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Cholesterol: 105mg

This dish is rich and satisfying, offering a solid balance of protein and carbs, but it is on the indulgent side—perfect for a comfort meal or a special dinner treat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While spaghetti is classic, this dish works well with fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or even rotini. Just avoid delicate pastas like angel hair—they won't hold the hearty sauce as well.

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2. Is it very spicy?

It has a noticeable kick, but it's not overpowering. You can tone it down by reducing the Cajun seasoning or skipping the red pepper flakes. To increase the heat, try adding a diced jalapeño or hot sauce.

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3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish, refrigerate it, and reheat it later. It even tastes better after the flavors meld overnight. Just be sure to reheat gently to keep the cheese sauce smooth.

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4. What kind of cheese works best?

A blend of mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan gives the best balance of creaminess, flavor, and structure. You can swap in provolone, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a different twist.

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5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Most kids love it! If you’re worried about spice, halve the Cajun seasoning or use a mild blend. The cheesy sauce tends to win them over either way.

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6. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Make sure your Cajun seasoning is certified gluten-free too.

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7. What kind of ground meat can I substitute?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage work well in place of ground beef. Just adjust seasoning to balance the flavor differences.

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8. Can I skip baking it?

If you're in a rush, absolutely. The broiling step gives it a golden cheesy crust, but it’s not essential. The dish will still be rich and satisfying straight from the stovetop.

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Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s bold without being overwhelming, creamy without being too heavy, and deeply satisfying with every bite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, a weekend dinner with friends, or prepping meals for the week, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen.

From the spicy Cajun beef to the melt-in-your-mouth cheese sauce and perfectly coated pasta, it’s a dish that checks every box—comforting, indulgent, and incredibly delicious.

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