Step 1: Brown beef (5–7 min): Cook beef over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.

Step 2: Aromatics & seasoning (2–3 min): Add butter, then onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant. Stir in Italian seasoning and chili flakes.

Step 3: Liquids & pasta (12–15 min): Pour in broth + milk (or milk + cream). Bring to a gentle boil. Add pasta and ensure it’s mostly submerged. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and stir every 2–3 minutes to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Finish creamy (2–3 min): Lower heat and stir in Parmesan and a small pat of butter. Adjust thickness with broth or let simmer briefly uncovered.

Step 5: Rest & garnish (1 min): Turn off heat, let the pasta sit so the sauce thickens slightly, then finish with parsley.