Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

This cheesy bowtie pasta with seasoned ground beef is a comforting weeknight meal that comes together quickly and pleases the whole family. The creamy sauce and sharp cheeses make it feel special without much fuss.

I once whipped this up after a busy day and found it quickly became a go-to dinner that everyone asks for again

Ingredients

• 12 ounces bowtie pasta: perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce with each bite
• 1 pound ground beef: provides hearty protein and a savory base
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: adds a smoky, slightly spicy layer of flavor — choose a blend you enjoy and check for freshness
• 4 cloves garlic: minced fresh garlic gives fragrant depth, avoid pre-minced jars that can lack brightness
• 2 tablespoons butter: helps create a rich sauce and enhances the garlic’s aroma
• 1½ cups heavy cream: brings luscious creaminess and a velvety texture — opt for good quality heavy cream for best results
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: sharp and tangy, it melts smoothly and adds character
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: for salty, nutty notes — freshly grated offers the best flavor
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt: enhances all other flavors without overpowering
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: freshly ground for a balanced hint of spice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: adds color and a fresh, herbaceous contrast

Instructions

Bring The Pasta To Life:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil — salting is crucial because it seasons the pasta inside out. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente, which means firm to the bite but cooked through. Reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining to add moisture and help bind the sauce later.

Brown The Beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef by breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks to ensure it cooks evenly. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the beef and stir well so all the pieces are coated. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and well browned. Then transfer the meat to a plate to rest while you make the sauce.

Create The Garlic Butter Base:

Melt butter in the same skillet you used for the beef — this will pick up all those leftover browned bits that add flavor. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned, which keeps it from tasting bitter.

Simmer The Cream:

Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes. This soft simmer thickens the cream slightly, creating the perfect canvas for the cheese without scorching it.

Melt The Cheese:

Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses. Keep stirring over low heat until the cheeses melt fully into a smooth sauce. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to balance richness and flavor.

Combine Everything:

Return the beef to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the cheesy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water. This trick helps create a silky texture that clings without being heavy.

Add Fresh Herb Finish:

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta. The parsley adds a fresh pop of color and brightness that cuts through the creaminess. Serve right away for best texture and flavor.

My favorite ingredient is the Cajun seasoning because it gives life to the dish with just a spoonful. This recipe always reminds me of family dinners when comfort food means everything after a busy week.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce without drying it out. Avoid microwaving without stirring to keep the sauce smooth.

Ingredient Swaps

Ground turkey or chicken work well instead of beef if you want a lighter version. You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a less rich but still creamy sauce. Experiment with smoked gouda or mozzarella in place of cheddar for a different cheese profile.

Serving Ideas

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon or vinegar to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus make great complementary sides. Top with extra parsley or even a drizzle of hot sauce if you like an extra kick.

This recipe combines quick preparation with bold flavors that make weeknight dinners both easy and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How can I ensure the pasta is perfectly cooked?

Cook the bowtie pasta in plenty of salted boiling water until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to taste as it nears the end to avoid overcooking.

→ What is the purpose of reserving pasta water?

Reserved pasta water contains starch, which helps loosen and bind the sauce, making it cling nicely to the pasta without thinning it excessively.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?

Yes, half-and-half can be used for a lighter creaminess, though the sauce may be slightly less rich and thick.

→ How does Cajun seasoning affect the dish?

Cajun seasoning adds a gentle warmth and depth with spices like paprika and garlic, complementing the beef and cheese without overwhelming the flavors.

→ What cheese combination works best here?

A mix of shredded cheddar for sharpness and grated Parmesan for nuttiness creates a rich and balanced creamy sauce.