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–+ servings
Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo

Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo: A Comforting Weeknight Delight

A flavorful Cajun Cream Cheese Alfredo dish that is quick, creamy, and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 720
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Bowtie Pasta Substitute with penne or gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Ensure it's softened for easy incorporation.
  • 1 cup Milk or Half-and-Half Use heavy cream for a richer sauce.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated is preferred.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Keep it unsalted for better control over flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is best.
  • 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for taste enhancement.
  • 1 tsp Pepper Essential for taste enhancement.
  • 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Optional for extra kick.
  • 1/2 cup Reserved Pasta Water Use to adjust sauce consistency.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, add bowtie pasta, cook until al dente (8-10 minutes), reserve ½ cup water, then drain.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef: Melt 1 tablespoon butter, add beef, season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned (5-7 minutes). Remove beef, keep drippings.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: Lower heat, add remaining butter and garlic, sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
  4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in softened cream cheese, whisk in milk until smooth (2-3 minutes).
  5. Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Add Parmesan and remaining Cajun seasoning, simmer to thicken (2-3 minutes). Adjust seasoning.
  6. Combine Everything Together: Add ground beef and pasta, toss with sauce, adjust with reserved pasta water as needed.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Transfer to plates, garnish with Parmesan and parsley/red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 720kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Make ahead of time for meal prep. Tastes even better the next day.

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