Dinner

Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream Recipe

ByRita Bennet January 18, 2026January 18, 2026

Introduction

Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. The tender pasta pairs beautifully with spicy Cajun beef and a rich, creamy garlic sauce. This recipe is easy to make and sure to satisfy your cravings.

A white bowl filled with two sections of food side by side on a white marbled surface: one section contains golden yellow bowtie pasta covered with a creamy, slightly oily sauce, sprinkled with finely grated white cheese and small green herb pieces evenly spread on top, the pasta pieces have a firm texture with ruffled edges; the other section holds a dark brown, chunky meat sauce with visible bits of ground meat, garnished with finely chopped green herbs, contrasting in color and texture with the pasta. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the beef and continue cooking until no longer pink. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Using the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it slightly thickens.

Step 5: Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper.
Step 6: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, add the cooked bowtie pasta, and toss to coat everything evenly. If needed, loosen the sauce with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Step 7: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve the pasta hot and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the Cajun seasoning.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Mix in steamed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more pasta water until you reach desired consistency.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or milk while reheating if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a dish with two main parts closely placed side by side. The left part is a large pile of cooked farfalle pasta, light golden yellow in color with a glossy texture, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and small shredded white cheese on top. The pasta shapes are bow-tie like, slightly curled with visible ridges. On the right side, there is a thick layer of rich, chunky ground meat sauce that is dark brown with hints of red and garnished with more chopped green herbs. The white marbled background adds brightness to the close-up image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand. Penne, rotini, or shells work well with this creamy sauce.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

While you can freeze it, the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. For best results, freeze the cooked pasta and beef separately from the sauce and combine fresh after reheating.