If you’re craving comfort food that’s quick, bold, and irresistibly creamy, this Cheesy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cream will be your new favorite weeknight dinner. Tender bowtie pasta mingles with seasoned ground beef, rich garlic cream sauce, and melted cheese for the perfect mix of spice and smoothness. It’s a hearty, soul-warming meal that comes together in just 35 minutes — ideal for busy families and flavor lovers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cream
- Quick & easy: Ready in around 30–35 minutes — perfect for weeknights.
- Bold Cajun flavor: Just the right balance of spice, smoky notes, and creamy richness.
- One-pan magic: Fewer dishes, faster cleanup.
- Family-friendly: Mild enough for everyone, but still loaded with flavor.
- Comfort in every bite: Creamy garlic sauce and melted cheese coat every bowtie beautifully.
Ingredients for Cheesy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cream
For the Pasta
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Cajun Beef
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water (to thin sauce as needed)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Notes (Substitutions & Healthy Swaps)
- Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Protein swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or tofu instead of beef.
- Cheese options: Monterey Jack or mozzarella work great in place of cheddar.
- Spice control: Use mild Cajun seasoning for kids or add cayenne for extra heat.
- Vegetable boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to sneak in nutrients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 10–11 minutes. Drain, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2 – Brown the Cajun Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed, then transfer beef to a bowl and set aside.
Step 3 – Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously.
Step 4 – Add the Cheeses
Reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5 – Combine Everything
Return the cooked beef and pasta to the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly in the cheesy garlic sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6 – Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the pasta — slightly firm pasta holds sauce better.
- Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting and better flavor.
- Reserve pasta water — it’s the secret to silky sauce texture.
- Warm the cream slightly before adding cheese to avoid curdling.
- Taste as you go — Cajun seasoning levels vary by brand.
- Double the batch for leftovers — this dish reheats beautifully.
Flavor Variations
- Cajun Chicken Version: Replace ground beef with sliced chicken breast.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for mushrooms and spinach.
- Seafood Twist: Add shrimp or crawfish for a Southern-style upgrade.
- Extra Cheesy: Stir in cream cheese or more cheddar for ultra-rich flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Serve with garlic bread or baguette slices to soak up the sauce.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
- Enjoy with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a pan with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 540 kcal |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
FAQ About Cheesy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cream
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine just before serving. Store each in the fridge for up to 2 days.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the sauce smooth.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to any short pasta shape.
How spicy is this dish?
It’s mildly spicy with a gentle Cajun kick. Adjust seasoning to your taste — add cayenne or crushed red pepper for extra heat.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free bowtie pasta or any gluten-free pasta of your choice. The sauce is naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cream is the perfect fusion of comfort and spice — creamy, hearty, and bursting with bold flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will satisfy everyone at the table. Simple ingredients, minimal effort, and restaurant-quality taste make it a true weeknight winner.
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Easy Cheesy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cream
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, cheesy Cajun-style pasta featuring bowtie noodles, ground beef, and a rich garlic cream sauce.
Ingredients
12 oz bowtie pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
1½ cups heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar
½ cup grated Parmesan
Salt & pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Boil pasta until al dente, reserve ¼ cup water.
2. Brown ground beef with Cajun seasoning; set aside.
3. Melt butter and sauté garlic.
4. Add cream, then whisk in cheeses.
5. Stir in pasta and beef, add pasta water as needed.
6. Serve hot with parsley.
Notes
Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Adjust Cajun spice to taste.
Add spinach or mushrooms for more veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
