Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking for another 3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a light roux.
4. Slowly pour in 1 cup of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly (about 3 minutes).

Step 4: Bring It All Together

1. Lower the heat and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
2. Add the cooked pasta and beef mixture back to the skillet, tossing everything together so the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
3. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
2. Add extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness!