This Cajun Beef Spaghetti packs a punch with spicy sausage, tender beef, and lots of flavor! The mix of spices gives it a warm kick, making every bite exciting and tasty.
I love whipping this up for dinner when I want something quick but full of flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti Pasta: This recipe uses 12 oz of spaghetti, which holds the sauce nicely. You can swap it with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta if needed. Just keep an eye on cooking times for different types.
Ground Beef: A pound of ground beef gives the dish its hearty base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Cajun Seasoning: This is the star for flavor! If you can’t find it, make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs. Adjust amounts based on your taste preference.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adding Parmesan gives a lovely creaminess. If you prefer non-dairy, use a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Get the Beef to Brown Perfectly?
Browning ground beef is essential for flavor. Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and adding olive oil. Here are simple steps for great results:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the beef. This helps to sear the meat, locking in juices.
- Break the beef apart with a spatula, but don’t stir constantly. Let it sit for a minute or two to develop a nice brown crust.
- If there’s excess fat after cooking, carefully drain it but don’t remove all of it; a little adds flavor!
Following these tips will give you nicely browned beef full of rich flavor for your spaghetti!
How to Make Cajun Beef Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Meat:
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup beef broth or water
For Serving:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Beef Spaghetti takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and boiling the pasta, followed by another 15-20 minutes cooking the meat and sauce. Finally, a few minutes to toss everything together and garnish. Perfect for a quick family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it turns fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take around 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat after cooking, feel free to drain it off.
4. Add the Spices:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook everything together for about 1-2 minutes. This step helps to toast the spices slightly, bringing out their flavors.
5. Make the Sauce:
Next, add the diced tomatoes and beef broth to the skillet. Stir everything well and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken a bit and for all the yummy flavors to blend together.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the beef sauce. Mix everything together thoroughly so the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Heat through for a couple of minutes until everything is warmed up nicely.
7. Stir in Cheese and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and combined. Serve your Cajun Beef Spaghetti on plates, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley.
Enjoy your flavorful Cajun Beef Spaghetti with its perfect balance of spicy, savory, and cheesy notes!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! You can substitute 12 oz of spaghetti with whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the packaging, as cooking times may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a lighter or plant-based option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian alternative, try using cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a similar texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Of course! If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper altogether. Conversely, for extra heat, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to your serving!
