Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream

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I love when a weeknight dinner feels like something you’d get from a restaurant—but without the complicated steps or a mountain of dishes. That’s exactly what this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream delivers. It’s bold, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. Every bite is drenched in a rich, garlicky cream sauce that clings to those tender bowtie noodles, with just the right amount of Cajun kick to wake up your taste buds.

The magic happens when the seasoned ground beef starts to caramelize slightly in the pan, layering the dish with deep, savory flavor. I’m always amazed how quickly this comes together, even on hectic days. If you’re looking for a recipe that feels indulgent but fits right into your real-life schedule, this one has your back.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream

• Big, bold flavor – The Cajun seasoning brings smoky, spicy depth that makes the creamy sauce anything but bland.
• Weeknight-friendly – Everything cooks in under 40 minutes, and you only need one skillet and one pot.
• Comfort food at its best – Creamy, cheesy, meaty, and just the right amount of heat.
• Family favorite – Even picky eaters tend to devour this dish thanks to the cheesy bowtie pasta and mild garlic cream.
• Easily adaptable – You can swap the protein or tone down the heat if you need to.

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What Type of Ground Beef Works Best?

For this dish, I usually go with 85/15 ground beef—it has enough fat to stay juicy and flavorful but not so much that it turns greasy. If you prefer leaner options, 90/10 works too, especially since the garlic cream sauce adds moisture back into the dish. Just make sure to drain any excess fat after browning the beef to avoid a heavy, oily texture.

You can also try ground turkey or chicken if you’re aiming for something lighter. They absorb the Cajun flavors beautifully, but keep in mind that these lean meats might need a splash of broth or extra cream to keep the dish moist and rich.

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Options for Substitutions

• Pasta Shape: Bowtie pasta (farfalle) holds the sauce well, but penne, rotini, or rigatoni are great alternatives. Short, ridged pastas work best to catch the creamy garlic sauce.
• Cheese: I use shredded cheddar and Parmesan for a bold, tangy finish. If you’re in the mood to switch it up, try Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a melty, mellow twist.
• Cream Base: Heavy cream makes the sauce ultra-luxurious, but you can substitute with half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter option. Avoid regular milk—it’ll be too thin.
• Seasoning Level: Cajun spice blends vary, so start small and build up. For a milder version, go with smoked paprika and a pinch of chili powder instead of a full Cajun blend.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms just after browning the meat for extra color, nutrition, and flavor depth.

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Ingredients for This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream

• Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
  This pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the rich cream sauce. Its little ridges and folds trap the cheesy, garlicky goodness in every bite.
• Ground Beef (85/15 preferred)
  Provides a hearty, savory base with enough fat to stay juicy and flavorful. It soaks up the Cajun spices beautifully.
• Cajun Seasoning
  Brings smoky heat and bold Southern flavor. It’s the main spice blend that defines the dish.
• Garlic (Fresh Minced)
  A non-negotiable for the cream sauce. Garlic adds that deeply aromatic, savory punch that ties the dish together.
• Heavy Cream
  Creates the luscious, silky sauce that clings to every noodle. It balances the spice and adds richness.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese
  Melts into the sauce for sharpness and body. It adds the “cheesy” in cheesy bowtie pasta.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese
  Adds nutty depth and saltiness, helping to round out the sauce and finish it with a savory edge.
• Butter
  Used to sauté the garlic and bloom the Cajun spices, giving the dish a velvety base layer.
• Salt & Black Pepper
  Enhances and balances all the flavors without overwhelming them.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional)
  Sprinkled on top for color and freshness—it helps cut through the richness just a bit.

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Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 10–11 minutes depending on the brand. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

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Step 2: Brown the Cajun Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until fully browned, about 6–8 minutes. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Once cooked, drain excess fat and set the beef aside in a bowl.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Base

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30–45 seconds—don’t let it brown. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.

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Step 4: Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses gradually. Keep stirring until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked bowtie pasta and browned Cajun beef back into the skillet. Toss everything together so the noodles are fully coated and the beef is evenly distributed. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.

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Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. You can also top with extra Parmesan for good measure.

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How Long to Cook Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream

The total cook time from start to finish is about 30–35 minutes:

• Pasta boiling: 10–11 minutes
• Browning the beef: 6–8 minutes
• Making the sauce & combining: 12–15 minutes

This makes it a great weeknight dinner option, especially when you need something comforting and flavorful without being time-consuming.

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Tips for Perfect Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream

• Salt your pasta water well – This is your one chance to season the pasta itself. It makes a huge difference.
• Don’t overcook the garlic – Garlic can turn bitter quickly. Just sauté it until fragrant, not browned.
• Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grate your own for a creamier sauce.
• Adjust the Cajun heat – Cajun blends vary in spice level. Taste your seasoning before adding too much, especially if serving kids or spice-sensitive guests.
• Reserve pasta water – It helps emulsify and loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick after adding cheese or meat.
• Simmer, don’t boil the sauce – High heat can cause the cream to break or the cheese to turn grainy. Keep it low and slow once dairy is in the pan.
• Let it sit a minute before serving – Just 1–2 minutes off the heat allows the sauce to settle and cling to the pasta better.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using lean ground beef without fat adjustment
  Extra lean beef can dry out quickly. If you’re using something like 93/7, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of cream while cooking to keep it juicy.
• Boiling the cream
  Once the cream is in the skillet, avoid high heat. Boiling can break the sauce and cause a gritty texture. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Not seasoning in layers
  Add Cajun seasoning to the beef and the sauce. Seasoning everything at once at the end won’t give the dish as much depth.
• Skipping the pasta water
  That reserved pasta water is liquid gold. Just a splash can smooth out the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
• Using the wrong pasta shape
  Bowtie pasta holds creamy sauces beautifully. Long noodles like spaghetti won’t have the same texture or hold.
• Overloading with cheese too fast
  Dumping all the cheese in at once can cause clumping. Add it gradually over low heat, and stir constantly for a silky finish.

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What to Serve With Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream?

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with buttery, crispy garlic bread—it’s perfect for mopping up any extra sauce.

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta and adds a refreshing crunch.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasted with olive oil and sea salt, broccoli adds a healthy, earthy note that pairs well with creamy dishes.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil skewers add brightness and a touch of acidity to cut through the cream.

Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

A cheesy side that mirrors the main but with a veggie twist—great if you’re cooking for cheese lovers.

Pickled Veggies or Cucumber Salad

The acidity and crunch from pickled or fresh marinated vegetables help reset the palate between bites.

A Glass of Red or White Wine

If you’re in the mood for a drink, try a glass of Chardonnay or Zinfandel—both complement the spicy, creamy flavor profile.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter option. Avoid regular milk unless you add a thickening agent like a roux or cream cheese.

Is this dish spicy?

It can be! Cajun seasoning tends to have heat, but you can adjust the amount or choose a mild blend. You can also mix Cajun with smoked paprika for flavor without too much spice.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If you’re prepping ahead, store the pasta and sauce separately to avoid sogginess. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.

Can I freeze this pasta?

You can freeze it, though the cream sauce may change in texture. Store it in an airtight container and reheat slowly on the stove while stirring. Add a bit of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

What kind of cheese works best?

I love using sharp cheddar and Parmesan for flavor and meltability. You can also use Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a blend of Italian cheeses for variety.

How do I tone down the richness?

Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of broth to the sauce. You can also serve it with a bright side salad to balance the meal.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—just use gluten-free bowtie pasta or another short GF pasta variety. Be sure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free as well.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano. Or replace it with taco seasoning or blackened spice for a different twist.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream is the kind of meal that hits every craving at once—creamy, cheesy, spicy, and deeply satisfying. It’s quick enough for a Tuesday night, but impressive enough to serve guests. The Cajun spices add depth and character without being overpowering, and the garlic cream wraps everything in pure comfort.

If you’re looking to shake up your pasta night with something bold and a little indulgent, this dish is the perfect way to do it. Plus, it’s flexible, fuss-free, and absolutely packed with flavor.

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