Beef And Rotini In Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of tender beef, al dente rotini, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. This hearty dish is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights, but it’s also elegant enough to impress dinner guests.

this Recipe

I first created this recipe when craving something creamy but packed with savory flavors. After a little experimentation, it became a family favorite, thanks to its easy preparation and irresistible taste. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Get ready to fall in love with this dish that combines unbeatable flavor with ultimate convenience.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you're a kitchen novice or a seasoned pro, you'll find this recipe simple and satisfying to prepare.

It’s also a one-pan wonder, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. You’ll sauté, simmer, and serve from the same pan—perfect for busy families or anyone who dreads doing dishes.

This dish is wonderfully customizable. You can swap out the protein, adjust the sauce’s richness, or add veggies to make it uniquely yours. Plus, the combination of creamy garlic sauce and tender pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.

Finally, the ingredients are budget-friendly and easy to find, making this recipe as practical as it is delicious. With pantry staples and fresh beef, you can whip up a meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Ready to start cooking? Let’s look at what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe relies on a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients to achieve its rich flavor and creamy texture.

Rotini Pasta is the backbone of this dish. Its spiral shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Feel free to substitute with penne or fusilli if you prefer.

Ground Beef brings hearty, savory notes that complement the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Lean ground beef works well, but if you prefer extra richness, opt for a blend with slightly higher fat content.

Garlic is a key player in the sauce, infusing it with bold, aromatic flavor. Use freshly minced garlic for the best results, as jarred garlic can sometimes taste muted.

Heavy Cream is the base of the sauce, providing that velvety texture. If you want to cut calories, half-and-half can be substituted, though the sauce will be slightly less indulgent.

Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese adds the perfect salty, nutty finish. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s texture.

You’ll also need a large skillet for cooking the beef and sauce together, ensuring every element melds into a cohesive dish.

How To Make This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Creating this dish is straightforward and stress-free, making it ideal for weeknight cooking.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water in case you need it to thin the sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. Once cooked through, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic.

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine it with the garlic and butter. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to cook for 2-3 minutes, thickening slightly.

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until evenly combined. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a touch of freshness and flair.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This dish stores well and tastes just as delicious the next day.

For refrigeration, transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

If you’d like to freeze it, ensure the dish has cooled completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, use a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

If you’re not a fan of beef, try substituting with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables. They’ll bring heartiness and depth to the dish without the protein.

Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick, or stir in a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce.

Experiment with the cheese by swapping Parmesan for Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or a blend of your favorites. Each will lend a unique twist to the sauce.

For an extra-nutritious version, use whole wheat or chickpea-based pasta and toss in a handful of steamed broccoli or peas.

This dish is your canvas, so don’t be afraid to make it your own. Enjoy every bite!

Print