When I say comfort food, this Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce is exactly what comes to mind. It’s rich, saucy, and intensely satisfying with every forkful. I first made this dish on a rainy night when I wanted something hearty but still full of bold, spicy flavor—and it’s been a favorite ever since. The combination of seasoned ground beef, spicy Cajun seasoning, and a silky, cheesy sauce wrapped around tender spaghetti is pure magic. That golden, bubbling cheese crust on top? That’s the kind of decadence that gets applause at the dinner table.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Just enter your email and get it sent to your inbox! Plus you’ll get new recipes from us every week!

I love how this recipe merges Cajun spice with the elegance of a creamy Italian-style sauce. The three-cheese blend brings depth and smoothness, while the kick from the Cajun seasoning gives it that Southern heat and personality. Whether you’re cooking for a special date night or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this dish always draws a crowd and never leaves leftovers.

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

This isn’t your typical pasta dinner. The Cajun beef delivers robust, savory flavor, while the cheese sauce—made with Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar—melts luxuriously into the noodles. It’s spicy, creamy, cheesy, and just a little smoky. You’ll love it for how easy it is to prepare, how impressive it looks on the table (especially served sizzling in a skillet), and how crazy-good it tastes. It’s a complete dinner wrapped up in one pan of cheesy perfection.

What Type of Ground Beef Works Best for Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti?

For this dish, I usually reach for 80/20 ground beef—that perfect ratio of meat to fat gives the sauce richness without making it greasy. The beef needs to be hearty enough to stand up to the bold Cajun spices and creamy cheese, and this blend gets it just right. You can also use leaner beef if you’re trying to cut back on fat, but you may want to add a splash of olive oil to keep the texture juicy and full-flavored.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in ground Italian sausage or ground turkey—just be sure to adjust seasoning since those meats bring their own personality to the table.

Options for Substitutions

This recipe is forgiving and flexible. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

Ground Turkey or Chicken – A leaner alternative that still works beautifully with the creamy sauce. Just increase the Cajun seasoning a bit to compensate for the milder flavor.
Vegetarian Version – Swap the meat with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Add smoked paprika to maintain that depth of flavor.
Cheese Variations – While I use Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar, feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack if you like it spicier.
Non-Dairy Option – Use a dairy-free cheese blend and plant-based milk (like oat or almond) to create a vegan-friendly version. Choose neutral-flavored alternatives so the Cajun spice still shines.
Gluten-Free Pasta – Substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free or legume-based pasta. Cook it al dente so it holds up under the creamy sauce.

No matter the switch, the essence of the dish—creamy, spicy, cheesy satisfaction—stays deliciously intact.

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

Spaghetti
The base of the dish—firm, chewy pasta that soaks up the cheesy Cajun sauce. Stick with classic spaghetti for that nostalgic, twirl-around-your-fork effect.

Ground Beef (80/20)
Provides richness and meaty flavor. It’s seasoned and browned to perfection, forming the savory core of this recipe.

Yellow Onion
Adds a sweet, mellow depth that balances the boldness of the Cajun spices and cuts through the richness of the cheese.

Garlic
Because garlic belongs in any good pasta dish. It brings that sharp, aromatic kick that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing.

Cajun Seasoning
The signature spice blend that sets this dish apart. It brings heat, smoke, and just enough Southern attitude.

Paprika
Adds warmth and subtle sweetness, boosting the Cajun flavors without overpowering the cheese.

Heavy Cream
The key to that smooth, velvety sauce. It binds the cheeses together into a luscious coating for the noodles.

Cream Cheese
Melted into the sauce for added richness and to help stabilize the creamy texture. It’s what makes the sauce cling to every strand.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Brings sharpness and depth—melts into the sauce and forms part of the golden topping.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Gives you that satisfying stretch and pull, while balancing out the stronger flavors with mild creaminess.

Freshly Grated Parmesan
Salty, nutty, and bold—it rounds out the cheese trio and adds a beautiful crust when broiled.

Chopped Fresh Parsley
For a fresh, herby finish and a pop of color that contrasts with the deep red sauce and golden cheese.

Salt & Black Pepper
Simple but essential. They bring all the other flavors into focus.

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large cast iron skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add a small splash of oil if the pan looks dry. Toss in the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Mix everything together.

Step 4: Add Cajun Seasoning and Spices

Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the beef and onion mixture. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheeses

Reduce heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese. Stir gently until melted and smooth. Gradually mix in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, reserving a little of each for topping. Keep stirring until the sauce is thick and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated in the creamy Cajun beef sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 7: Top with More Cheese and Broil

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses on top of the spaghetti. Transfer the skillet to a preheated broiler for 3–5 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and immediately garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy that sizzling, cheesy perfection.

How Long to Cook the Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce

From start to finish, this recipe takes around 40–45 minutes. Here’s the breakdown:

Boiling pasta: 10 minutes
Sautéing beef and aromatics: 8–10 minutes
Making the sauce: 5–7 minutes
Combining and broiling: 5–8 minutes
Final garnish and resting: 2–3 minutes

It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for entertaining.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce

Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Grate your own for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente so it holds up in the sauce and doesn’t get mushy under the broiler.
Brown the beef deeply – Let it get some color for more flavor. Don’t rush this step—it builds the base.
Taste your Cajun seasoning – Some blends are saltier or spicier than others. Adjust before adding salt.
Reserve pasta water – A small splash can help thin out the sauce if it thickens too much.
Broil with care – Stay nearby when the skillet is under the broiler. Cheese goes from golden to burned quickly.
Let it rest before serving – A few minutes out of the oven allows the cheese and sauce to settle for neater plating.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using pre-shredded cheese
It may seem convenient, but it won’t melt as smoothly. Freshly grated cheese is worth the few extra minutes.
Skipping the spice check
Not all Cajun blends are created equal—some are very salty or overly hot. Always taste and adjust before dumping the whole amount in.
Overcooking the pasta
Once the noodles go into the sauce and under the broiler, they’ll keep cooking slightly. Pull them off the stove just before they’re fully done.
Forgetting to drain excess beef fat
Leaving too much grease in the skillet can make the sauce separate or feel too heavy. Drain or blot before moving on.
Burning the cheese under the broiler
Keep a close eye during those last minutes—it can go from bubbling to burnt fast.
Letting the sauce sit too long before mixing with pasta
Cream sauces can thicken quickly off heat. Combine it with the pasta while it’s still hot and fluid for the best texture.

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

Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A light salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the pasta.

Cajun Corn on the Cob

Grilled or sautéed with butter and extra Cajun spice for a Southern-style sidekick.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Their sweetness balances the creamy, spicy pasta beautifully.

Cucumber Salad

Cool, crunchy, and refreshing—perfect if you go heavy on the Cajun heat.

Glass of Red Wine or Iced Tea

A smooth red wine or sweet iced tea pairs wonderfully and rounds out the meal.

Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts

Their charred edges and earthy flavors match the richness of the cheese sauce.

Antipasto Skewers

A fun appetizer or side that offers contrast in texture and flavor—olives, mozzarella balls, cherry peppers, and salami.

Storage Instructions

If you find yourself with leftovers (rare, but possible!), this dish keeps beautifully. Store any remaining Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life—microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Just note: the sauce may slightly lose its creamy texture after freezing, but it still tastes delicious.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general estimate per serving (based on 6 servings total):

Calories: 680
Protein: 32g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Cholesterol: 125mg
Sodium: 820mg

Note: Nutritional values will vary based on specific brands and ingredient quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own! Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, black pepper, cayenne, and a pinch of salt. Adjust heat to your liking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the pasta and sauce, mix them together, and refrigerate it. Just add cheese on top and broil right before serving.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a medium kick, thanks to the Cajun seasoning. If you prefer it milder, reduce the seasoning or use a milder blend. Add cayenne for more heat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine all work well. Just make sure it’s a pasta that holds sauce nicely.

How do I make this vegetarian?

Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. Everything else stays the same.

What’s the best cheese combo if I want to mix it up?

Try using gouda for smokiness, fontina for a meltier finish, or pepper jack for added heat.

Can I skip the broiler step?

Yes, but broiling gives that irresistible golden cheese crust. If you don’t have a broiler, just cover the skillet and let the cheese melt on low heat.

How can I make it lighter?

Use lean ground meat, reduced-fat cheese, and replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. You’ll still get a rich flavor with fewer calories.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce is a bold, comforting twist on pasta night. It brings together fiery Cajun spice, savory beef, and a rich, melty cheese sauce for a dish that hits every craving. Whether you’re serving it to guests or digging in solo, this is one recipe you’ll want to make again and again. It’s versatile, deeply satisfying, and just the right balance of indulgent and approachable. Trust me—once you try it, this one’s going straight into your regular dinner rotation.