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–+ servings
Cheesy Cajun Bowties

Cheesy Cajun Bowties

Discover the perfect blend of creamy cheese and zesty Cajun spices in this easy Cheesy Cajun Bowties recipe, a family favorite for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • to taste Crushed red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Deep skillet
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, reserving ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, add ground beef, and cook until browned, seasoning with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute, then transfer the beef to a bowl and keep warm.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter, add chicken broth, and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add cream cheese and whisk until melted and smooth, adjusting with reserved pasta water if needed.
  6. Lower heat and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until thick and creamy, adding more reserved pasta water if necessary.
  7. Return pasta and beef to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce, and let simmer for another minute.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 220mgIron: 3mg

Notes

To enhance the ground beef flavor, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce during cooking. For a lighter dish, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, and consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Customize your pasta shape to your preference, and feel free to add vegetables for more nutrition and color. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy. Enjoy!
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