Creamy Beef and Shrimp Spaghetti in Cajun Sauce – A Flavorful Fusion Feast!
Indulge in a bold fusion of creamy Cajun flavors, juicy shrimp, and savory beef, all tossed together with perfectly cooked spaghetti. This mouthwatering dish is guaranteed to elevate your pasta night with its rich, zesty taste and vibrant presentation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Cajun Flavors: Spicy, smoky, and creamy all in one bite.
- Hearty & Satisfying: A perfect balance of proteins, veggies, and carbs.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 35 mins
- 12 oz spaghetti
- ½ lb ground beef
- ½ lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup red bell pepper (chopped)
- ½ cup yellow onion (chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and season with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart, until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Sear the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the shrimp and season with the remaining 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning.
- Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
4️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables
- Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic, red bell pepper, and yellow onion.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
5️⃣ Prepare the Cajun Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Allow the sauce to thicken for 3–4 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6️⃣ Combine & Toss
- Return the spaghetti, browned beef, and shrimp to the skillet.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated in the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
7️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
- Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
- Pair with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~650 kcal per serving
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbs: ~45g
- Fat: ~30g
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Cajun Pasta
- Adjust the Spice: Increase or decrease Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- Swap Proteins: Substitute shrimp with chicken or sausage for a fun twist.
- Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
