Julia Walton
Imagine a skillet bubbling with rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, twirled through tender bowtie pasta, and topped with perfectly spiced ground beef. This dish is a bold marriage of Cajun flavors and classic comfort food, making every bite a warm, satisfying experience. It’s a quick weeknight meal that feels like an indulgent restaurant-quality dinner.
The cream cheese melts into the Alfredo sauce for a velvety finish, while Cajun spices bring just the right kick to balance the richness. Add in the savory aroma of garlic and parmesan, and you’ve got a one-pan wonder that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Dish?
Bowtie (farfalle) pasta is ideal because its shape captures the creamy sauce and bits of seasoned beef beautifully. However, penne or rigatoni can also be a tasty alternative if you prefer a sturdier bite.
Ingredients for Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Ground Beef
- Bowtie pasta – Holds onto the creamy sauce and provides a playful, hearty bite.
- Ground beef – A rich, meaty element that absorbs the Cajun spices perfectly.
- Cream cheese – Creates a silky, decadent base for the Alfredo sauce.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds nutty, salty depth to enhance the creaminess.
- Cajun seasoning – The hero of this dish, bringing warmth and spice.
- Garlic cloves – Infuses the sauce with savory aromatics.
- Heavy cream or half-and-half – Essential for a luscious, restaurant-style Alfredo texture.
- Fresh parsley – A touch of brightness to balance the rich, creamy layers.
How To Make Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Ground Beef
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 a small cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later.
Step 2: Brown the Spiced Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with Cajun seasoning until browned and fragrant. Break it up with a spatula and cook for 6–8 minutes, then remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Alfredo Base
In the same skillet, melt cream cheese with minced garlic. Stir in heavy cream and whisk until smooth. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes to thicken.
Step 4: Combine and Season
Return the ground beef to the skillet and fold in the drained bowtie pasta. Add grated Parmesan cheese and toss everything until the sauce clings to each piece of pasta. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve hot for a creamy, flavorful meal that’s both cozy and indulgent.
Serving and Storing Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Ground Beef
This creamy pasta dish is best enjoyed right off the stove, when the sauce is at its velvety peak. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
What to Serve With Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Ground Beef
Garlic Bread
Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a perfect companion to soak up extra creamy sauce.
Side Salad
A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances the richness of the dish with a refreshing crunch.
Steamed Broccoli
Lightly steamed or roasted broccoli adds color and a nutritious touch to your meal.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Oven-roasted sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic pair well with the Cajun flavors.
Cornbread
For a Southern twist, serve this pasta with warm, buttery cornbread.
Lemon Green Beans
A squeeze of lemon over tender green beans provides brightness to cut through the creamy richness.
Sautéed Spinach
A quick sauté of fresh spinach with garlic adds a healthy, earthy side.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you love these Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Ground Beef, you’ll enjoy these other flavorful pasta creations:
- Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce for a seafood twist with zesty Cajun spices.
- Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni for a hearty, steak-packed pasta night.
- Cheesy Ranch Chicken Garlic Butter Fettuccine for a creamy chicken favorite the whole family will love.
- Ultimate One-Pan Creamy Honey Butter Steak Pasta for rich, sweet-and-savory perfection.
- Spicy Cajun Steak Mozzarella Alfredo Pasta if you crave an extra cheesy and spicy kick.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe you swapped the ground beef for sausage or added extra veggies? I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes. Your next favorite might be waiting there!
Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Ground Beef
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound bowtie pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with Cajun seasoning for 6–8 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add cream cheese and heavy cream, whisking until smooth and creamy. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Return the ground beef to the skillet, add the pasta, and toss with Parmesan until evenly coated. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
2. Leftovers reheat best with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s silky texture.