Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a rich, creamy, and hearty pasta dish that combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked rotini, and a luscious garlic parmesan cream sauce. It’s the kind of comfort food that comes together in one pan and hits all the right savory notes. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal that’s quick and easy to prepare
• Creamy and comforting without being overly heavy
• Perfect balance of garlicky flavor and cheesy goodness
• Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
• Easy to customize with veggies or different types of meat

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Rotini pasta
• Garlic (minced)
• Heavy cream
• Beef broth
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Cook rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes.
5. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
6. Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the garlic parmesan sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in mozzarella or provolone for a cheesier bite.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower gnocchi.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. This dish does not freeze well due to the cream-based sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of rotini?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or shells also work great for holding the creamy sauce.

Is it okay to use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can use whole milk, but the sauce may be thinner. For richness, a splash of cream is recommended.

What’s the best beef to use?

Lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) works well for less grease and more flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate, then reheat gently with added liquid to refresh the sauce.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer the sauce longer or add a bit more Parmesan cheese for a thicker consistency.

What herbs pair well with this dish?

Parsley, basil, or thyme work well with the garlic parmesan flavor profile.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute with gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth is gluten-free.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! The creamy texture and cheesy flavor are usually a hit with kids.

Can I add tomato to this recipe?

You can stir in some sun-dried tomatoes or diced fresh tomatoes for a twist.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better, but pre-shredded can work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a simple yet indulgent dish that satisfies both pasta and beef lovers. With its creamy garlic parmesan sauce and tender pasta, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. Great for family dinners or meal prep, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss.

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