Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce

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Ready to fire up your taste buds? This Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce is a knockout dinner that brings bold, comforting flavors to your table. Tender bowtie pasta meets a hearty combo of ground beef and smoky sausage, all drenched in a rich, creamy garlic sauce with just the right Cajun kick. It’s cozy, satisfying, and comes together faster than you’d think.

This dish is a celebration of Southern flair with a modern twist. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner night, this pasta delivers on flavor and fun. Plus, it’s easy to tweak the spice level to suit everyone at the table. One bite and it’s sure to be on regular rotation in your dinner ideas lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta

• Perfect mix of creamy and spicy.
• Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.
• Loaded with protein from both beef and sausage.
• Quick and easy recipe for busy weeknights.
• Comfort food that feels indulgent but is easy to make at home.

What Kind of Sausage Works Best in This Pasta?

While you can use any sausage you love, smoked andouille sausage is the top choice for this recipe. It delivers that signature Cajun flavor that really brings the whole dish together. If you prefer something milder or spicier, feel free to experiment with Italian sausage or even a chicken sausage for a lighter take.

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Ingredients for the Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce

This bold and creamy pasta dish calls for a combination of flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully. Each ingredient plays a unique role in creating depth, richness, and that signature Cajun spice profile.

• Bowtie pasta: The fun shape helps hold onto the creamy sauce and adds texture.
• Ground beef: Adds heartiness and classic comfort to the dish.
• Smoked sausage (preferably andouille): Brings a smoky, spicy depth that defines Cajun cuisine.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps build the creamy base.
• Garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor.
• Heavy cream: Creates that luscious, creamy texture.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps balance the creaminess.
• Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for extra umami and creamy body.
• Cajun seasoning: Delivers the bold, spicy kick that makes this dish shine.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• Parsley (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor as garnish.

How To Make the Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced sausage and sear until golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

Melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef and sausage to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley if using, and serve hot. Enjoy the comforting heat and creamy richness in every bite.

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Serving and Storing Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce

This hearty pasta dish serves approximately 6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. It holds up well as leftovers, too. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.

If you’re planning to freeze it, note that cream-based sauces can sometimes separate. For best results, freeze without the cream sauce and make it fresh when ready to serve.

What to Serve With Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is the perfect side to mop up that creamy Cajun sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

The charred edges of roasted broccoli pair well with the spicy and creamy elements.

Cornbread Muffins

These Southern-style muffins add a slightly sweet contrast to the spicy pasta.

Sauteed Spinach

Lightly cooked spinach adds nutrition and a touch of earthiness.

Grilled Asparagus

Adds a smoky, elegant touch that complements the sausage.

Sweet Tea or Lemonade

Cool, refreshing drinks help balance the heat of the Cajun spices.

Apple Crisp or Peach Cobbler

For dessert, try a warm, fruity crumble to end the meal on a comforting note.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! Simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a mild sausage. You can even mix in a bit of milk to tone down the heat in the sauce.

What type of pasta can I use instead of bowtie?
While bowtie is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, penne, rotini, or rigatoni are great alternatives that also work well.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For a compromise, try using half-and-half.

Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes! It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your sausage and Cajun seasoning are gluten-free too.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it extra spicy or go mild? Did you swap in a different pasta or protein?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Conclusion

Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce is a flavor-packed comfort dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but bold enough for a weekend indulgence. With just the right amount of heat and a creamy, savory sauce, it hits all the right notes. Give it a try and bring a little Southern-inspired spice to your dinner table!

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