Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up as it browns, for about 6–8 minutes. Once fully browned, season it with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the beef and sauté for another minute until it becomes fragrant. The spices and garlic together should be rich and aromatic at this point.

Step 4: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Once it starts to simmer gently, add in the Parmesan and cheddar or mozzarella. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet and toss it well with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen things up. Keep tossing until the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 6: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions and serve warm.