Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, add bowtie pasta, and cook until al dente for 10-12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.

Brown the Ground Beef: Melt 1 tbsp butter in a skillet, add ground beef and half of the Cajun seasoning, cooking for 5-7 minutes until browned. Transfer to a plate.

Sauté the Garlic: Lower heat, add the remaining butter, then garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Create the Creamy Sauce: Add cream cheese, stir until melted, then whisk in milk/half-and-half until smooth.

Thicken the Sauce: Mix in parmesan and remaining Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens.

Combine Pasta and Beef: Add pasta and beef to the sauce, toss gently. If too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed.

Serve and Garnish: Plate the dish, garnish with parmesan and red pepper flakes or parsley. Serve warm.