Name: Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
Ingredients: 450g spaghetti; 500g ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; ½ cup reserved pasta water (optional, for thinning the sauce)

If you’ve ever had a craving for something rich, spicy, and utterly comforting, let me introduce you to my go-to weeknight indulgence: Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti. I created this dish on a whim during one of those “what do I have in the fridge?” nights, and now it’s a staple in my kitchen. Imagine the savory depth of a Cajun-spiced meat sauce swirling around tender spaghetti noodles, all hugged together with a creamy, cheesy finish — it’s the kind of meal that gets everyone running to the dinner table.

What I love most is the balance of bold Cajun flavors with the richness of cream and beef. It’s fiery, but not overwhelming. Hearty, but not heavy. And the best part? It all comes together in one pan, which means less mess and more time to enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for family or trying to impress guests, this recipe is pure comfort food with a Louisiana kick.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti Recipe

Bold, smoky flavor from Cajun seasoning that infuses every bite.
Creamy and cheesy without being overly rich.
One-pan wonder – easy to make and easy to clean.
Perfect for weeknights but special enough for guests.
Customizable with different proteins or add-ins like bell peppers or mushrooms.
A total crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters.

What Kind of Spaghetti Should I Use?

For this Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti, I usually reach for classic durum wheat spaghetti — it holds up beautifully against the hearty meat sauce and creamy finish. That said, any long pasta will work. Linguine or fettuccine are great alternatives if you want a wider noodle that clings to the sauce even more. If you’re after something a little lighter, whole wheat spaghetti can be used for added fiber and nuttiness.

Feeling adventurous? Try using fresh pasta if you have it on hand — it soaks in the Cajun flavors even more intensely. Just be sure to slightly undercook it before tossing it in the sauce, so it finishes perfectly in the pan.

Options for Substitutions

Ground Beef: You can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just make sure to adjust seasoning slightly since beef naturally has a deeper, richer flavor.
Heavy Cream: Swap it for half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free twist. Even cream cheese thinned with a bit of pasta water can create a similar creamy texture.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have store-bought Cajun spice, you can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme. It’s super customizable based on your heat preference.
Cheese: I love using shredded mozzarella for that melt factor, but Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of parmesan all work well depending on what you have on hand.
Parsley Garnish: Fresh parsley gives it a nice contrast, but you could also use green onions, basil, or skip it if you’re not a fan of herbs.

Ingredients for This Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti Recipe

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a flavorful role in building that perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and comfort. Here’s what you’ll need — and why it matters:

Spaghetti: The base of the dish — it absorbs all that spicy, creamy sauce while adding satisfying bite and texture.
Ground Beef: Provides richness and heartiness. It’s the protein anchor that pairs beautifully with the Cajun spices.
Onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth, creating the aromatic foundation for the sauce.
Garlic (minced): Brings in that sharp, savory kick that balances the cream and spice.
Cajun Seasoning: The star flavor — spicy, smoky, and bold. It sets the tone for the whole dish.
Tomato Paste: Adds umami and a concentrated tomato depth to the sauce. It enhances the beefy flavor without being overwhelming.
Heavy Cream: Gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture. It also mellows the spice just enough to make it smooth and luscious.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce and adds that irresistible cheesy pull.
Fresh Parsley (chopped): For brightness and color. It cuts through the richness and brings the dish to life visually and flavor-wise.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the pasta and bringing out all the other flavors.

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil and brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Push the beef to one side of the pan, reduce heat to medium, and add the diced onion. Sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Cajun Seasoning and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and mix well to coat the meat and onions. Add the tomato paste and stir to combine, letting it cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 5: Pour in the Cream

Slowly stir in the heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Toss in the Pasta

Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet. Toss well to coat every strand in the creamy Cajun beef sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the pasta and let it melt into the sauce. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a silky, cheesy finish.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top, and serve immediately while it’s hot and bubbling. Get ready for flavor fireworks!

How Long to Cook the Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti

This dish comes together surprisingly fast — perfect for those busy evenings when you want big flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.

Spaghetti: About 8–10 minutes to cook until al dente.
Beef and Aromatics: 6–8 minutes to brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic.
Sauce and Simmering: 5–7 minutes total for combining cream, tomato paste, and cheese.
Final Assembly: 2–3 minutes to toss everything together and melt the cheese.

Total cook time: Around 25–30 minutes, start to finish.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti

Salt your pasta water like the sea. It’s your first chance to build flavor into the noodles.
Use freshly grated cheese if you can. It melts better and avoids the clumpiness that pre-shredded cheese can bring.
Don’t overcook the pasta. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the hot sauce.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste. If you’re heat-sensitive, start with less and add more later.
Deglaze with a splash of broth or pasta water if the pan looks dry before adding the cream — it helps release all those delicious browned bits.
Let the sauce simmer briefly after adding cream to help it thicken and coat the noodles just right.
Garnish last-minute. Add parsley just before serving for max freshness and color.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti is straightforward, a few simple missteps can throw off the texture or flavor. Here’s what to watch for:

Overcooking the pasta: Once it goes into the hot sauce, it will soften further. Boil it just until al dente.
Adding cream too early: If the pan is too hot when you pour in the cream, it might curdle. Lower the heat first.
Using too much Cajun seasoning: It’s powerful! Add in layers and taste as you go — especially if your blend is heavy on salt.
Skipping the tomato paste: It might seem like a small detail, but it adds depth that balances the cream and spice.
Forgetting to reserve pasta water: It’s liquid gold! Helps bind the sauce and pasta smoothly.
Using pre-shredded cheese without checking the label: Many contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Overcrowding the pan: If your pan is too small, things won’t cook evenly. Use a large skillet or sauté pan for the best results.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti?

Pairing this bold and creamy pasta with the right sides will round out your meal beautifully. Here are my go-to ideas:

Garlic Butter Green Beans

A crisp, fresh contrast that adds color and cuts through the richness.

Toasted French Bread or Garlic Bread

Perfect for sopping up every last bit of that creamy, spicy sauce.

Simple Garden Salad

Keep it light with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette — it refreshes the palate between bites.

Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan

Roasted veg adds crunch and umami, complementing the cheesy depth of the pasta.

Corn on the Cob with Cajun Butter

Bring the Southern vibes full circle with this sweet and spicy side.

A Glass of Chilled White Wine

Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to balance the heat and richness.

Cherry Tomato Cucumber Salad

This cool and juicy salad adds brightness and a bit of tang — a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.

Lemon-Herb Asparagus

Bright, zesty, and lightly charred — asparagus balances out the heavy pasta like a charm.

Storage Instructions

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of this Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti, they store beautifully for easy next-day meals.

Refrigerator: Let the pasta cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezer: While you can freeze it, the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tip: Warm slowly over medium heat. Add a bit of pasta water, broth, or cream while stirring to restore the sauce’s texture.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Keep in mind this is an estimate and may vary depending on substitutions and portion sizes.

Calories: ~620
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 880mg
Cholesterol: 110mg

This dish is hearty, rich, and filling — definitely a satisfying main course that keeps you fueled and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of Cajun seasoning should I use?

You can use any store-bought Cajun seasoning, but keep in mind that some blends are saltier or spicier than others. I recommend tasting a pinch before adding it. Or make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely. Either reduce the Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend. You can also stir in a bit more cream or cheese at the end to mellow the heat.

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Yes! Linguine, fettuccine, or even penne will work well. Just make sure to cook it al dente and adjust sauce quantities if using a different shape.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

You can. Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will change slightly, but it still works beautifully.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Totally! Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini would all be delicious. Sauté them with the onion and garlic before adding the beef.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Make it up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Mozzarella is my favorite for its meltiness, but Monterey Jack or a blend of cheddar and parmesan can add great flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible for smoother melting.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well — just note it’s leaner, so you might want to add a bit of oil when cooking and bump up the seasoning a little to balance the flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti is everything I want in a comfort meal — smoky, creamy, a little spicy, and wildly satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to pull together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or serving guests something bold and hearty, this pasta delivers every single time.