Cheesy Beef Pasta Delight (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Pasta and Beef

01 - 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
02 - 1 lb (450g) ground beef
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 cloves of garlic, minced
06 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
07 - ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
08 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ For the Garlic Butter Sauce

09 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 - 2 cloves of garlic, minced
11 - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
12 - 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)
13 - 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
14 - ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
15 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Save ½ cup of the pasta’s cooking water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into smaller pieces, until fully browned (about 5-7 minutes). Incorporate the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion softens and becomes translucent (around 3 minutes). Mix in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if desired), and season with salt and pepper. Remove the beef mixture from the pan and set it aside.
03 - Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour, cooking it for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking to achieve a smooth consistency. Let the mixture gently simmer for about 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
04 - Lower the heat and mix in both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted. Return the cooked pasta and beef mixture to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat evenly in the cheese sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
05 - Dish out the cheesy beef and bowtie pasta into serving bowls. Top with parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for garnish, if you wish.

# Notes:

01 - You can swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter dish.
02 - Stir in some vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers, for added nutrition.
03 - Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently on the stovetop with a bit of milk.