This spicy Cajun bowtie pasta is what comfort food dreams are made of. It’s rich, creamy, and full of smoky depth from perfectly seasoned ground beef and sausage. The creamy garlic sauce clings to every fold of the bowtie pasta, while pops of heat and herbs dance through every bite.
What makes this dish extra special? The blend of meats adds deep flavor and hearty texture, while the Cajun seasoning brings a bold kick that’s balanced out with velvety cream, melty cheese, and a touch of garlic. It’s indulgent yet easy to make — ideal for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and unforgettable.
What Makes Cajun Pasta Different?
Cajun pasta stands out because it blends creamy sauces with bold, smoky-spicy flavors typical of Southern U.S. cooking. While Alfredo or carbonara are more delicate, Cajun pasta brings fire and richness to the table—without needing a roux. This version elevates that concept with a meaty combo and a garlic-forward cream sauce.
Ingredients for the Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Ground Beef – Provides hearty texture and depth of flavor.
- Italian Sausage – Adds spice, fat, and savory seasoning.
- Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta – Holds the sauce in its ridges and folds.
- Cajun Seasoning – The backbone of the dish’s flavor with paprika, garlic, pepper, and thyme.
- Heavy Cream – For a smooth and decadent sauce base.
- Shredded Mozzarella or Monterey Jack – Melts into the sauce for added richness.
- Garlic – Brings a punch of aromatic depth.
- Spinach – Adds color and a light, fresh finish.
- Red Bell Peppers – Sweetness and crunch that balance the spice.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty finish.
- Butter – Used to sauté garlic and finish the sauce with silkiness.


How To Make the Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Cook the bowtie pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Meats
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and sausage together, breaking them up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Push the meat to one side and melt butter in the same pan. Add minced garlic and chopped red bell peppers. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in Cajun seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded mozzarella (or Monterey Jack), stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Add the Spinach
Stir in the spinach and cook for another 1–2 minutes until wilted and vibrant.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to loosen it slightly.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and extra Cajun seasoning if desired. Serve hot and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh kick.
How to Serve and Store Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta
This dish is best served hot right off the stove when the cheese is gooey, and the sauce is silky. For family-style dinners or gatherings, serve it in a large bowl garnished with extra Parmesan and chopped herbs.
Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life.
Avoid freezing as the creamy sauce can separate when thawed and reheated.
What to Serve With Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta?
Garlic Bread
Perfect for soaking up every last drop of creamy sauce.
Cajun Corn on the Cob
Keep the Southern theme strong with spicy butter-brushed corn.
Chopped Green Salad
A refreshing side that cuts through the richness.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Adds crunch and earthiness to the plate.
Creamy Coleslaw
Cool, creamy, and balances the spice just right.
Fried Okra
Crispy and Southern—an excellent crunchy side.
Sweet Tea or Lemonade
Cool drinks help offset the heat and richness.
Pickled Jalapeños or Banana Peppers
For those who want to turn the spice dial up even more.
Want More Cajun or Pasta Recipes?
If you’re into bold pasta dishes with creamy sauces and serious flavor, check out these favorites next:
- Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta for another Cajun-inspired one-pot dinner.
- One Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini that packs big flavor into a cozy bowl.
- Ultimate Cajun Mozzarella Chicken Ranch Pasta for something ultra-cheesy and spicy.
- Creamy Spicy Rotel Dip if you’re looking for a party-style Cajun kick.
- Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta for a rich, over-the-top creamy pasta treat.
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Made it your own? Did you go heavier on the sausage or try a smoked gouda twist? Share your spins and questions in the comments!
Want even more big-flavor weeknight wins? Discover fresh, comforting ideas over on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and get inspired daily.
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Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This spicy Cajun bowtie pasta is pure comfort food with a Southern twist. A smoky blend of ground beef and Italian sausage forms the heart of this hearty dinner, while a rich, garlic-infused cream sauce wraps every piece of pasta in bold flavor. Cajun seasoning adds heat, fresh spinach and peppers give color and sweetness, and cheese takes it to next-level creamy. If you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, flavorful weeknight meals, or pasta recipes with a kick, this one will keep your family coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
225g bowtie pasta
200g ground beef
150g Italian sausage
1 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1.5 cups heavy cream
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
2 cups baby spinach
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. Cook the bowtie pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 2 tbsp of pasta water and drain.
2. In a skillet, cook ground beef and sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Move meat to the side of the skillet and add butter, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until soft.
4. Pour in heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Stir well and simmer.
5. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Mix in spinach and let it wilt.
7. Toss in the pasta and reserved water. Stir until evenly coated.
8. Sprinkle Parmesan on top, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Notes
For a smokier flavor, try using smoked paprika or smoked sausage.
Adjust the Cajun seasoning depending on your heat tolerance—start mild and build up.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Cajun-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg