Cheesy Beef Bowtie Pasta in Rich Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients:
12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
4 cups water or beef broth
1 tsp salt
For the Beef & Sauce:
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup milk
1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour (to thicken sauce)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water or beef broth to a boil. Stir in a pinch of salt and add the bowtie pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, until tender but firm. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until browned and no longer pink. Toss in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Prepare the Sauce: Add butter to the beef mixture and let it melt, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle the flour into the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, to form a roux. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk while mixing, allowing the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
Melt the Cheese & Season: Add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella to the skillet, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes rich and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Stir everything until fully combined.
Toss with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, mixing well so the bowtie noodles are generously coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, feel free to thin it with a splash more milk.
Serve & Garnish: Once well-mixed, serve the pasta immediately, garnishing with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy meal!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4