How to Make Creamy Cajun Beef & Shrimp Spaghetti

If you’re looking for a dish that brings together the richness of beef, the delicacy of shrimp, and the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, look no further! Creamy Beef and Shrimp Spaghetti in Cajun Sauce combines all these elements into a single, satisfying meal. The creamy sauce complements the spices perfectly, while the tender beef and shrimp bring hearty protein to the dish. It’s a perfect choice for weeknight dinners, date nights, or impressing guests with a flavorful, yet easy-to-make meal. The best part? This dish is surprisingly simple and quick to prepare, making it a go-to for those busy days when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold and Flavorful: The Cajun sauce adds the perfect amount of spice and depth.
Rich and Creamy: The creamy sauce balances the heat, giving you a comforting yet indulgent meal.
Protein-Packed: With both beef and shrimp, this dish provides a satisfying amount of protein in every bite.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights.
Perfectly Balanced: The mix of hearty beef, succulent shrimp, and flavorful pasta makes every bite an experience.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti (whole wheat or gluten-free options work too)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup light cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Cook the Beef and Shrimp:

1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside with the beef.

Prepare the Cajun Sauce:

1. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary, and sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the Cajun seasoning, paprika, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and cook for another 1 minute to bring out the flavors of the spices.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, stir in the light cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine and Toss:

1. Return the cooked beef and shrimp to the pan with the sauce, mixing to coat evenly.
2. Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Stir in the parmesan cheese and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

1. Divide the pasta mixture into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Calories: 450 | Carbs: 45g | Fat: 15g | Protein: 30g | Fiber: 4g

Tips for Success

• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to your desired spice level. Start with a small amount and taste as you go!
• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best texture, but frozen shrimp can work as well—just be sure to thaw them fully.
• Make It Lighter: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the light cream with milk or a plant-based alternative.
• Add Veggies: For an extra boost of nutrition, consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the dish.

Why This Recipe Works

• Flavors That Pop: The Cajun seasoning provides a wonderful balance of heat, smokiness, and depth, while the creamy sauce mellows it out just enough.
• Quick Cooking Time: This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight, with the entire dish coming together in under 30 minutes.
• Protein-Rich: The combination of beef and shrimp gives you a satisfying amount of protein, making this dish filling without being too heavy.
• Versatile: You can customize the recipe by adding or substituting ingredients based on what you have on hand or your preferences.

This Creamy Beef and Shrimp Spaghetti in Cajun Sauce is a showstopper of a dish—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. With the boldness of Cajun spices and the combination of tender beef and shrimp, it’s a meal that feels indulgent but is easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this dish is sure to satisfy your craving for something hearty, creamy, and packed with zesty flavor. Enjoy!