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Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Ground Beef

Indulgent Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Beef

Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties with Spiced Ground Beef is a comforting and zesty dish that delights every palate.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz bowtie pasta Use whole wheat for a healthier twist.
For the Sauce
  • 1 lb ground beef Substitute with turkey or plant-based options for a lighter dish.
  • 4 oz cream cheese Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy; try Neufchâtel for lower fat.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For a rich texture; half-and-half can also work if you want it lighter.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Adjust according to your spice preference for the perfect kick!
  • 3 cloves garlic Fresh garlic adds a fragrant depth; garlic powder is a quick alternative.
  • 1 small onion Sweet or yellow onions enhance sweetness; shallots can be a gourmet touch.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese Mix it up; pepper jack adds a spicy bite!
For Flavoring
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Essential for balancing flavors; taste and adjust as you go.
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper Freshly cracked has the best flavor!
For Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley Brightens the dish’s appearance and flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • spatula
  • tongs

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta, cooking it according to the package instructions until it's al dente, which typically takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and remember to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook the meat, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it's browned and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. If there's excess fat, carefully drain it off.
  3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the spiced ground beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the beef mixture and stir well, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
  5. Lower the heat to medium, then add the softened cream cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and blends smoothly.
  6. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Continue stirring for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture forms a smooth, velvety sauce.
  7. Now, add in the shredded cheese, stirring until it's fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Taste the mixture, then season with salt and black pepper.
  8. Gently add the cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce, using tongs to toss until each piece is well-coated. Gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water if the sauce appears too thick.
  9. Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion in freezer-safe containers and they can stay good for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or reserved pasta water.

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