Creamy Garlic Butter Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Broiled Cheese Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To achieve the ultimate creamy texture, always save about half a cup of the starchy pasta boiling water before draining the spaghetti.

If the cheese and cream sauce becomes too thick or begins to separate when you combine the ingredients, splashing a tablespoon or two of this hot pasta water into the skillet while tossing will help emulsify the fats and create a perfectly smooth, glossy coating. This simple chef's trick ensures your pasta never turns dry or clumpy.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider browning the beef until it gets slightly crispy around the edges. This caramelization adds a wonderful texture that stands out beautifully against the tender pasta and creamy sauce.

Additionally, make sure your broiler is fully preheated before placing the skillet inside; a cold broiler will dry out the pasta sauce before the cheese has a chance to brown properly, whereas a hot broiler works quickly to melt and color the cheese.

Variations

• Spicy Cajun Chicken: Swap the ground beef for diced chicken breast seasoned with Cajun spices, cooking it fully before tossing with the pasta.
• Vegetarian Cajun Pasta: Omit the beef and sauté sliced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms with the Cajun seasoning for a veggie-packed alternative.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing.

Freezer

Freezing is not recommended as the heavy cream and cheese sauce may split and become grainy upon thawing.

Reheat

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy sauce consistency.

Store any leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to ensure safety. The leftovers will keep well for up to three days. Because the cream sauce contains dairy, it is important not to leave the dish sitting out at room temperature for extended periods. Label the container with the date so you can easily track its freshness.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components in advance to save time. Cook the ground beef with the Cajun seasoning and store it in the refrigerator up to a day ahead. You can also shred the cheeses and mince the garlic beforehand. When ready to serve, boil the pasta fresh, assemble the sauce with the pre-cooked beef, combine, top with cheese, and broil as directed.

Serving ideas

Serve this rich and comforting spaghetti directly from the skillet to keep it hot and showcase the beautiful broiled cheese crust.

Place the skillet on a heatproof trivet in the center of the table and use a large spoon and pasta tongs to scoop up generous portions of the cheesy, saucy noodles. This family-style presentation enhances the cozy, comforting appeal of the meal and makes for an impressive table centerpiece.

Pair this decadent pasta dish with a simple, crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the garlic butter and heavy cream.

A side of warm garlic bread or crusty French bread is also excellent for scooping up any remaining creamy Cajun sauce left on the plate. Keep extra red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan cheese on the table so guests can customize their spice and cheese levels.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Creamy Garlic Butter Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Broiled Cheese

Prep 15 minCook 20 minRest 5 minTotal 40 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, divided
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until just shy of al dente, about 8 to 9 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander, reserving half a cup of pasta water, and set aside. Do not rinse the cooked pasta.
2. Heat a broiler-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sprinkle with the Cajun seasoning. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon, for 6 to 8 minutes until the beef is fully browned, shows no remaining pink, and reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Drain any excess grease from the skillet and transfer the beef to a plate.
3. In the same skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in half of the shredded cheese, whisking constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
4. Return the cooked Cajun beef to the skillet with the garlic butter cream sauce. Add the drained spaghetti. Toss everything together using tongs until the pasta is evenly coated in the rich, creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, splash in a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
5. Preheat your oven's broiler to high. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti in the skillet. Place the skillet under the broiler for 3 to 4 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and beautifully browned with golden spots.
6. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Garnish the melted cheese layer with chopped fresh parsley and red chili flakes. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the cream sauce to set slightly before serving directly from the skillet.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

680

Protein

34.2 g

Carbohydrates

48.5 g

Fat

38.8 g

Fiber

2.1 g

Sugar

3.4 g

Sodium

980 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.