Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream

When comfort food calls, this dish answers with bold flavor and creamy indulgence. Cheesy bowtie pasta is already a crowd-pleaser, but add savory Cajun-seasoned ground beef and a luscious garlic cream sauce, and you have a dinner that turns an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion. Every bite is loaded with tender pasta, smoky spice, and a rich creaminess that makes you want to linger at the table.
This recipe brings together the hearty satisfaction of beef, the cozy familiarity of pasta, and the indulgent twist of garlic-infused cream. The Cajun seasoning adds warmth without overpowering, creating a balance of spice and smoothness. It’s a meal you’ll crave after just one serving—and probably sneak back to the pot for more.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream
It’s the kind of recipe that feels like it took hours, but really comes together in under 40 minutes. The Cajun spice wakes up your taste buds, while the cream sauce soothes them. Plus, it’s versatile enough for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?
Bowtie pasta (farfalle) holds the creamy sauce beautifully in its folds, but you can use other shapes like penne or rotini if that’s what you have on hand. The key is choosing a pasta with ridges or folds so every bite is coated in that garlicky, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients for the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream
This dish is all about building layers of flavor, and every ingredient plays its part. The Cajun seasoning brings a smoky kick, the cream smooths things out, and the cheese pulls it all together. Choose fresh garlic for the sauce if possible—its aromatic punch makes all the difference.
- Bowtie pasta
- Ground beef
- Cajun seasoning
- Fresh garlic
- Heavy cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Butter
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley


How To Make the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Brown the Beef with Cajun Seasoning
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and season generously with Cajun seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, then transfer to a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the beef to the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and toss until everything is coated in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some of the reserved pasta water.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy while hot.
Serving and Storing Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream
This recipe makes enough to comfortably feed 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. Serve it hot straight from the skillet for the creamiest texture. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back its silky texture.
What to Serve With Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream
Garlic Bread
A crusty slice of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce.
Simple Green Salad
A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables
Oven-roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition to your plate.
Steamed Asparagus
Its tender, slightly crisp texture works well with creamy pasta.
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing, tangy contrast.
Sautéed Spinach
Lightly wilted spinach with garlic is a quick and healthy side.
Bruschetta
Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes a flavorful starter.
Creamy Coleslaw
For a Southern-inspired twist, serve with a cool, crunchy coleslaw.
Want More Pasta Ideas?
If you love this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream, you might also enjoy these delicious options from our kitchen:
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta for a fast and flavorful twist.
• Rattlesnake Pasta with a spicy kick and creamy finish.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for a comfort food favorite.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli when you crave rich, earthy flavors.
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for a bold and buttery pasta experience.
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime. Whether you tweak the spice level or add your own special twist, it’s a dish worth making again and again.
I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Did you add extra Cajun seasoning for more heat? Try a different cheese blend? Share your results and tips so we can all enjoy the best version of this creamy, cheesy pasta.
Explore more beautifully curated savory dishes and pasta creations on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next dinner inspiration.
Conclusion
Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. With its balance of spice, creaminess, and cheesy goodness, it’s a recipe that satisfies cravings and impresses guests alike. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this pasta promises to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
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Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A cozy weeknight favorite, Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream pairs tender farfalle with Cajun-spiced beef and a silky garlic cream sauce. Keywords: cheesy bowtie pasta, Cajun ground beef pasta, garlic cream sauce, creamy pasta recipe, easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
12 ounces bowtie pasta
1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1½ cups heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the beef and cook until no longer pink. Transfer to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Return beef to the skillet, add cooked pasta, and toss to coat. Loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
7. Remove from heat and finish with chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
Use a lean ground beef blend to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste; start with less if you prefer mild heat.
Reserved pasta water helps the cheese sauce cling and stay silky.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350 g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 780
- Fat: 38
- Saturated Fat: 19
- Unsaturated Fat: 16
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 32
- Cholesterol: 135