Name: Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
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

I absolutely adore this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream Recipe because it combines creamy, cheesy indulgence with a bold, spicy kick that always lingers delightfully on the palate. Every time I make it, the aroma fills my kitchen and my cravings skyrocket—I just know I’m in for a treat. The tender bowtie pasta soaked in that luscious garlic cream sauce, dotted with perfectly seasoned Cajun beef, makes this a dish I love sharing with family and friends, especially when we want something hearty and satisfying that feels just a little special.

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

For me, it’s all about the flavor harmony. The Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of spice and earthiness to the ground beef, balancing beautifully with the rich, velvety garlic cream sauce. The sharpness of the cheddar and nutty Parmesan melt into a comforting blanket of cheese that clings to every bowtie noodle. It’s like the perfect hug in pasta form.

One of the best parts is how straightforward this dish is to prepare. I love recipes that taste like I spent hours in the kitchen but actually come together in under 40 minutes. Whether I’m cooking for a weeknight dinner or bringing something impressive to a gathering, this recipe never fails to impress without any stress.

I often serve this dish when I want something that feels cozy but also a bit adventurous because of that Cajun flair. It really stands out against your usual pasta routine, making it a go-to for family dinners, casual parties, or even a special weekend meal. Honestly, once you try this, I bet it’ll become a favorite in your rotation just like it is in mine.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with various ingredients neatly placed in small glass bowls and a white bowl. There are three clear bowls filled with different types of cooked ground meat and shredded yellow cheese, arranged in a row near the bottom. To the top left, a white bowl holds uncooked bowtie pasta, while to its right, a small glass bowl contains chopped white onions. Another bowl near the onions is filled with bright red tomato sauce. Several small containers hold white cream, olive oil, minced garlic, and spices scattered around, each with a smooth or granular texture. Fresh green parsley sprigs lie on the white marbled surface to the right, adding a splash of color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, fresh ingredients are the secret to making this dish sing. Each component plays a crucial role—from the meatiness of the ground beef to the creamy cheeses and fresh parsley that add both flavor and color. I always find that when the base ingredients are great, the dish feels elevating without being complicated.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Bowtie pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto every bit of creamy sauce and cheese.
Ground beef: I use lean for a good balance between flavor and texture without too much grease.
Cajun seasoning: Adds an addictive spicy, smoky punch that wakes up the whole dish.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the cream sauce with aromatic warmth that is simply irresistible.
Butter: Helps cook the garlic and enriches the cream sauce’s silky texture.
Heavy cream: The base of the sauce, making it luxuriously thick and luscious.
Cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and depth to the creamy sauce.
Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty finish that rounds out the flavor perfectly.
Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors without overpowering.
Fresh parsley: A bright, herbaceous finish that adds color and freshness on top.

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Before draining, reserve half a cup of the pasta water to use later in the sauce. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula or wooden spoon as it browns. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over the meat and continue cooking until the beef is fully browned with no pink remaining—this usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Once done, transfer the seasoned beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. This step releases all the garlicky goodness into the butter, building the base of our sauce.

Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens. This thickened cream is what creates the luscious texture of the sauce.

Step 5: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until they melt completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to taste—this elevates the flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Return the seasoned Cajun ground beef to the skillet, then add the cooked bowtie pasta. Toss everything together to fully coat the pasta in that rich garlic cream sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it up with a splash of the reserved pasta water—this trick always helps achieve the perfect consistency.

Step 7: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while it’s warm and the cheeses are still melty and gooey.

Servings and Timing

This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream Recipe serves 6 people generously, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. The prep time is about 10 minutes, mostly chopping and getting ingredients ready. Cooking time clocks in around 25 minutes, primarily for browning the beef, cooking the pasta, and simmering the sauce. Altogether, you’re looking at about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a fantastic option for satisfying midweek meals without a long wait. No additional resting time is necessary; this dish is best served hot and fresh.

How to Serve This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with creamy pasta made of farfalle noodles mixed with melted cheese and small pieces of browned meat. On top, there is a sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs or grated cheese adding a crunchy texture. A spoon lifts some pasta from the bowl, stretching the melted cheese between the spoon and the bowl, showing gooey, stringy cheese texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a soft-focused, cool-toned background suggesting a winter outdoor scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this dish, I like to keep the sides simple yet complementary. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette brightens the plate and contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta. Roasted or steamed vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, add freshness and a pop of color too. For something heartier, I sometimes pair it with garlic bread or crusty baguette to scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Presentation-wise, scattering a little extra chopped parsley or even some freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving adds just the right touch of elegance. If I’m making it for guests, I find that plating individual portions in shallow bowls highlights the creamy textures and makes it feel cozy and inviting.

In terms of beverages, this cheesy, spicy dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red such as Pinot Noir. If you prefer cocktails, a citrusy gin and tonic or a classic mojito refreshes the palate nicely. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or iced tea works wonders. I usually serve this meal hot to keep those comforting gooey textures perfectly intact, but it also tastes great warm the next day!

Variations

I love experimenting with this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream Recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For example, swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken works just as well if you want a lighter protein option. If you’re vegetarian, you can use sautéed mushrooms or plant-based crumbles instead to keep that rich, meaty texture.

If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, simply replace the bowtie pasta with your preferred gluten-free pasta variety—just watch cooking times as they might vary a bit. For a dairy-free or vegan twist, I’ve tried using coconut cream and vegan cheese substitutes which create a surprisingly creamy sauce with a gentle sweetness that balances the Cajun spices nicely.

Flavor-wise, you can play around with the seasoning by adding smoked paprika or a hint of cayenne for extra heat. Another fun variation is finishing the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro instead of parsley, for a brighter, zestier finish. Additionally, cooking the beef and seasoning together in a slow cooker, then mixing in the pasta and cheese at the end, makes this an excellent hands-off meal for busy days.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always recommend storing leftover Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 to 4 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to preserve the flavors and avoid condensation that could make it soggy.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, this dish freezes well but be mindful that the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Properly stored, it will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

My preferred method to reheat is gently warming the pasta on the stovetop over low heat. I add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce and stir constantly to avoid sticking or clumping. You can also use a microwave, but do so in short intervals, stirring in between to evenly distribute heat. Avoid overheating as it can cause the cheese to separate, changing the texture. Reheating slowly and gently brings back that creamy, comforting experience I love.

FAQs

Can I use other pasta shapes besides bowtie?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is great for holding the sauce, you can easily swap in penne, rotini, farfalle, or even shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions to ensure it’s al dente.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?

The level of spice depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. Typically, it adds a moderate heat with smoky, flavorful notes, but if you prefer milder or hotter, you can adjust the amount or choose seasoning blends accordingly. I like to start with one tablespoon and add more if I want extra kick.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can cook the pasta and brown the seasoned beef ahead of time and refrigerate separately. When you’re ready to eat, just finish the sauce and combine everything. This shortcut saves time on busy days without sacrificing any flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep lunches?

Yes! The creamy, cheesy sauce holds up well in the fridge, making individual portions perfect for reheating. Just store in airtight containers and consume within 3 to 4 days for best taste and texture.

What if I don’t have heavy cream—can I substitute it?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half mixed with a bit of butter to maintain richness, or use whole milk plus a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce. The texture might be slightly lighter, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Conclusion

I genuinely hope you give this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream Recipe a try because it has been such a joy to make and savor in my kitchen. It strikes that perfect balance of creamy comfort and lively spice, making every bite memorable. Whether you’re cooking for your family, a group of friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a delicious way to bring warmth and bold flavor to your table with ease. Trust me, it will quickly become one of your favorites too!