Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to make a roux (this removes the raw flour taste).
3. Slowly whisk in the milk or cream, ensuring no lumps form.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly (about 3–5 minutes).
5. Lower the heat and add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Season with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Beef, and Sauce

1. Add the cooked beef and vegetables into the creamy sauce. Stir well to coat evenly.
2. Gently fold in the cooked bowtie pasta, ensuring every piece is enveloped in the creamy mixture.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the creamy beef and bowtie pasta to a serving dish.
2. Sprinkle fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and presentation.
3. Serve immediately while warm, paired with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• Cheese choice: Mixing cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives depth and richness.
• Add vegetables: Mushrooms, spinach, or peas work beautifully in this recipe for extra nutrition.
• Leftover hack: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Final Thoughts:
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a versatile, comforting dish that balances rich flavors with tender pasta and hearty beef. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to prepare. With these step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful meal on the table in under an hour, guaranteed to become a family favorite.

If you want, I can also make a foolproof shortcut version that cooks in one pan, which saves a lot of cleanup time while keeping it creamy and delicious. Do you want me to do that?