Description
This Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce combines hearty ground beef seasoned with bold Cajun spices and a luscious blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Perfectly cooked spaghetti is tossed in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, creating a comforting and indulgent meal that comes together quickly on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein
- 1 lb Ground Beef (Can substitute with turkey for a leaner option)
Pasta
- 8 oz Spaghetti (Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free for dietary needs)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium Diced Onion (Yellow or white onions work best)
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Fresh is preferred)
- 1 cup Diced Tomatoes (Canned or fresh are both fine)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (Or thyme for garnish)
Fats and Oils
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (For sautéing)
- 1 tbsp Butter (Can use plant-based for dairy-free)
Seasonings
- 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (Adjust according to spice preference)
Dairy and Cheese
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can substitute with half-and-half)
- 4 oz Cream Cheese (Use Neufchâtel for a lighter version)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Fresh mozzarella enhances flavor)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano can substitute)
Instructions
- Prepare the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Season the beef: Stir in the Cajun seasoning and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Make the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add cheeses: Incorporate the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and well combined into the sauce.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy Cajun beef sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley (or thyme) over the top and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a leaner dish, substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti to accommodate dietary needs.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
- For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter and cream alternatives.
- Freshly shredded cheeses melt better and enhance flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
