Introduction

If you’re craving a bold and comforting dinner that’s fast and full of flavor, Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Ground Beef is the recipe you need to try tonight. This easy dinner transforms classic Alfredo into something truly exciting, with Cajun spice, creamy cheese, and hearty beef tossed with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. It’s a quick option that feels special and is great for leftovers.

A white plate filled with a layered pasta dish made of bowtie noodles covered in melted yellow and orange cheese on top. Underneath, there is a mix of browned ground meat and some light creamy sauce visible between the pasta. The dish is garnished with small bits of green herbs sprinkled evenly over the cheese, adding a fresh color contrast. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 pound ground beef (85/15 recommended)
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup milk or half-and-half
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
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)
½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add ground beef and season with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook until browned and slightly crispy around the edges. Remove beef and set aside, leaving drippings in the skillet.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cream cheese and stir until softened and starting to melt.
Step 4: Slowly whisk in milk or half-and-half, stirring continuously to form a smooth, creamy sauce without lumps.
Step 5: Stir in grated Parmesan and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice if desired.
Step 6: Return cooked ground beef to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your preferred consistency.
Step 7: Serve immediately while hot and creamy. Garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added color and heat if you like.

Tips & Variations

Don’t overcook the pasta; keep it al dente so it holds shape and texture in the sauce.
Use room-temperature cream cheese for easier melting and a smoother sauce.
Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick when combining ingredients.
Season the beef generously to build layers of flavor from the start.
Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent cream cheese and milk from separating.
Adjust the spice levels by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.
Substitute ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or shrimp for the ground beef for different protein options.
For a dairy-free twist, try a vegan cream cheese and non-dairy milk, but texture and flavor will vary.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed. You can freeze the dish but note that the cream cheese sauce may change texture slightly after thawing; if freezing, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly with some added liquid for best results.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy pasta made of bow tie noodles covered in a cheesy sauce, topped with ground beef and chopped green herbs scattered evenly on top, showing a mix of orange, brown, and green colors with a rich and smooth texture. The dish looks warm and hearty, with the noodles layered under the beef and cheese, all presented on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What kind of Cajun seasoning should I use?

You can use any store-bought Cajun blend you prefer. Check for salt content as some blends are quite salty. Alternatively, make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper for customized flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, the dish can be prepared ahead and reheated gently before serving. The flavors often deepen overnight in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level ranges from mild to medium depending on the Cajun seasoning and if you add red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the spice to your preference by increasing or reducing these ingredients.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute mascarpone, heavy cream with extra Parmesan, or ricotta cheese. Each alternative will slightly change the texture and flavor but will keep the sauce rich and creamy.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free bowtie pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning blend is gluten-free as well. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.