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Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Cheesy Bowtie Pasta: A Comforting Cajun Cream Delight

This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta features savory Cajun ground beef in a garlic cream sauce, making it a delightful comfort dish perfect for weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Bowtie Pasta Feel free to swap for penne or rotini if needed.
For the Protein
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Opt for lean ground beef to minimize greasiness.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning Adjust based on your heat preference.
For the Sauce
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced, use fresh for best results.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter You can use olive oil for a lighter version.
  • 1.5 cups Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be a lighter alternative.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Consider mixing in a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds depth and a hint of saltiness to the sauce.
For Flavor Enhancement
  • 0.5 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt Adjust to taste based on your preference.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground adds the best flavor.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Stir in Cajun seasoning and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Set aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic: Melt butter in the skillet, add minced garlic, and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Create the Cream Sauce: Add heavy cream, simmer for 3-4 minutes stirring occasionally until thickened.
  5. Add the Cheeses: Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the skillet, add the pasta, and gently toss together. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat, scoop onto plates, and garnish with parsley. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and adjust spices to your preference. Experiment with different cheese blends for added flavor.

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