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

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Some recipes warm you from the inside out, and this Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce does just that. It’s fiery, rich, and indulgent without being too fussy. A weeknight meal that delivers restaurant-style flavor, this pasta is the kind of comfort food that hits the spot every time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or trying to impress guests, this dish will quickly become one of your most requested.

The blend of spicy Cajun seasoning, tender bowtie pasta, hearty beef, and juicy sausage gets wrapped up in a velvety garlic cream sauce that soaks into every bite. It’s bold and satisfying, with layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more. You can dial the heat up or down to suit your tastes, but one thing’s certain—this pasta won’t stick around for long.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce

This recipe is more than just another pasta night. It has everything you want in a satisfying meal: protein, spice, and creaminess. The bowtie pasta holds the sauce beautifully, while the beef and sausage provide texture and savory depth. What makes it truly irresistible, though, is the Cajun kick that elevates it above the ordinary. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make in under an hour.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Cajun Pasta?

While bowtie pasta is our go-to for its fun shape and excellent sauce-catching ability, you could swap it for penne, rotini, or even fettuccine. Just make sure the pasta you choose is sturdy enough to hold up to the rich, creamy sauce and the chunks of meat. If you want a gluten-free option, brown rice or lentil-based pasta can work too. The important part is that every bite gets a good ratio of sauce, meat, and spice.

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

This dish brings together a mix of ingredients that are both hearty and full of flavor. Every component plays a role in creating that rich, spicy, creamy harmony we crave in a comforting pasta dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bowtie pasta
• Ground beef
• Smoked sausage
• Cajun seasoning
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Parsley

Each ingredient here helps deliver the ultimate Cajun pasta experience. The bowtie pasta is great for catching sauce. Ground beef and smoked sausage make the dish hearty. Cajun seasoning brings that signature heat. Garlic cloves, butter, and olive oil form the aromatic base, while heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create the creamy sauce. A splash of chicken broth adds depth, and salt, black pepper, and parsley finish things off perfectly.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and smoked sausage slices. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and stir in heavy cream. Let it simmer gently.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Add Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef and sausage to the pan. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat everything in the sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy the bold, creamy flavors!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

A dish this flavorful doesn’t come together by chance—it’s all about the method. One common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Since you’ll be tossing it in a hot sauce later, it’s best to cook it just until al dente to avoid it turning mushy. Another issue is not browning the meats well enough. Taking the time to get that caramelized color on the sausage and beef builds deeper flavor. Also, don’t rush the garlic. Burnt garlic turns bitter and will throw off the balance of the creamy sauce.

Seasoning is key here. Taste as you go, especially when adding the Cajun seasoning. Some blends are spicier than others, so it’s smart to start small and adjust. And don’t skip the Parmesan at the end. It not only thickens the sauce but also gives it a salty, umami depth.

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

This pasta is best served hot, straight from the skillet. The recipe comfortably feeds four to six people, making it perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining. Leftovers reheat well, but the sauce may thicken more in the fridge. When storing, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat, add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce and warm on the stove over low heat. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring between intervals.

What to Serve With Spicy Cajun Pasta?

Garlic Bread

A classic partner. The crispy edges and buttery middle make it perfect for sopping up extra sauce.

Side Salad with Ranch or Blue Cheese

A cool, creamy salad balances the heat of the Cajun seasoning beautifully.

Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts

Add some roasted greens to bring a charred, earthy note to the meal.

Cornbread Muffins

The slightly sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread contrasts the creamy heat of the pasta in a fun way.

Grilled Zucchini

Lightly charred zucchini adds a mild, smoky flavor that doesn’t overpower the pasta.

Cajun-Spiced Shrimp

If you’re feeling extra, top your pasta with a few grilled shrimp to elevate the whole dish.

Pickled Jalapeños

Serve on the side for those who want an extra jolt of heat and tang.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce, you’re going to want to check out a few other standout pasta dishes from Nina Dishes:

• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta for sun-dried tomato richness.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce if you’re craving even more garlic and parmesan bliss.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta for bold, love-at-first-bite flavor.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta when you want fewer dishes without sacrificing flavor.
• Sausage Alfredo Ravioli Lasagna for a twist on lasagna night.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra spicy? Add veggies? Or maybe topped it with some shrimp?

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Conclusion

This Spicy Cajun Bowtie Pasta with Beef, Sausage & Creamy Garlic Sauce delivers exactly what comfort food should—flavor, texture, warmth, and just the right kick of heat. It’s the kind of dinner that satisfies cravings and makes leftovers something to look forward to. Whether it’s a chill weeknight or a family get-together, this pasta has your back.

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