Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties With Spiced Ground Beef

• 1 pound bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 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)
• 2 tablespoons reserved pasta water (as needed)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. 2

   In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and season with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook until browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.

3. 3

   In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds. Add cream cheese and stir until softened.

4. 4

   Slowly whisk in milk or half-and-half to create a creamy base. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.

5. 5

   Mix in grated Parmesan and remaining Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.

6. 6

   Return cooked ground beef to the skillet, then add pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

7. 7

   Serve hot and garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.