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Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Ground Beef

Indulgent Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Beef

Delight in Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Ground Beef, a quick and indulgent dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Keyword: Bowties, Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo, comfort food, Pasta, Quick dinner, Spiced Ground Beef
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet
  • Whisk

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 1 pound Bowtie Pasta this shape holds sauce exceptionally well

For the Sauce

  • 1 pound Ground Beef adds heartiness to the dish
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese softened for easy blending
  • 1 cup Milk or Half-and-Half provides a smooth base
  • ¾ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese fresh is best for melting
  • 2 tablespoons Butter for richness in the sauce

For Flavor

  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning divided
  • ½ teaspoon Salt or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional for extra heat

For Final Touches

  • 2 tablespoons Reserved Pasta Water as needed for sauce consistency

Instructions

Preparation

  • Fill a large pot with salted water, bring it to a boil, and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the ground beef, season with Cajun spice, and cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove beef, leaving drippings.
  • Lower the heat to medium, melt the remaining butter, and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  • Stir in the softened cream cheese, whisking until melted and creamy. Gradually add the milk or half-and-half while stirring until smooth.
  • Mix in the grated Parmesan and remaining Cajun seasoning, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Combine the sautéed ground beef and drained pasta into the sauce, tossing gently. If too thick, stir in reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
  • Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan or parsley as desired.

Notes

This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowl | Calories: 650kcal | Carbohydrates: 70g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 100mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 600IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 300mg | Iron: 3mg