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Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream

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A comforting dish combining creamy cheese, bold Cajun spices, and fun bowtie pasta for a perfect family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef
  • 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until just al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Transfer the beef to a bowl and keep warm.
  3. Using the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer. Add the cream cheese and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan. Mix until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. If it feels too thick, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
  5. Return the pasta and cooked beef to the skillet. Toss everything together until the bowties and beef are well coated in the cheesy garlic Cajun sauce. Let it simmer for another minute to blend the flavors.
  6. Finish with chopped parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the pasta; reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness as needed. Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://sourdoughvoyage.com/cheesy-bowtie-pasta-cajun-ground-beef-garlic-cream/