Cajun Garlic Butter Beef and Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
Ingredients:
2.25 pounds ground beef
1 pound bowtie pasta (farfalle)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup beef broth
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking beef)
Directions:
Cook the bowtie pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.
Cook the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden brown.
Prepare the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
Add the cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing them to melt and blend into the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy base.
Combine pasta and beef: Return the cooked beef to the skillet, then add the cooked bowtie pasta. Toss to coat the pasta in the creamy, cheesy sauce. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce.
Serve and garnish: Plate the Cajun garlic butter beef and cheesy bowtie pasta, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~750 per serving