Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties Recipe
Introduction
This Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties recipe combines the comforting richness of cream cheese alfredo with a spicy Cajun twist. It’s a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2 teaspoons Cajun spice
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Step 3: Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream cheese and Cajun spice with the cooked beef until the cream cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
- Step 4: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat all the pasta with the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Step 5: Serve hot, garnished with extra Cajun seasoning or parsley if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For more vegetables, add sautéed bell peppers or onions with the ground beef.
- Use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
- If you like it spicier, increase the Cajun spice or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells will work well in this recipe.
Is cream cheese necessary for the sauce?
Cream cheese adds creaminess and body to the sauce, but you can substitute with heavy cream or a combination of cream and parmesan cheese for a different texture.
PrintCajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties Recipe
A creamy and flavorful Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties recipe combining tender ground beef with a rich, spicy cream cheese Alfredo sauce and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. This comforting dish offers a quick and delicious twist on classic Alfredo with a zesty Cajun kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound ground beef
Pasta
- 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons Cajun spice blend
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the Cajun cream cheese sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir the cream cheese into the cooked beef until melted and smooth. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce. Season with Cajun spice blend, salt, and pepper, adjusting the spiciness to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the Cajun cream cheese sauce and beef. Stir well to evenly coat the pasta with the creamy, spicy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo Bowties hot, garnished with optional parsley or grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Cajun spice to increase or decrease heat intensity.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for cream cheese or use low-fat cream cheese.
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Keywords: Cajun cream cheese Alfredo, bowtie pasta, spicy Alfredo sauce, ground beef pasta, easy Cajun pasta recipe
