If you’ve been craving a hearty, creamy pasta dish that feels like a warm hug, you’re absolutely going to fall for Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. This quick and family-friendly recipe wraps tender ground beef and rotini noodles in a velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce, with the irresistible pop of Italian herbs. Ready in just over half an hour, it’s comfort food at its finest, delivering big flavor using everyday ingredients. The rich sauce, luscious with cheese and a hint of garlic, clings beautifully to the spirals of rotini, making every bite a true treat!

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is that it leans on simple, reliable ingredients you likely already have. Each component plays an important role, balancing flavor, comfort, and that crave-worthy creamy texture you want from a cozy pasta dinner.

Rotini Pasta (12 oz): Spiraled pasta holds onto the creamy sauce for the perfect flavor explosion in every bite.
Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides savory richness and heartiness for a filling meal.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle, fruity base that helps meld all the other flavors together.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The standout aromatic—fresh garlic brings warmth and depth to the sauce.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Contributes extra creaminess and rounds out the flavors in the sauce.
All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Forms an easy roux that thickens the sauce to just the right consistency.
Beef Broth (2 cups): Infuses the sauce with savory notes while keeping things light and silky.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Delivers rich, luxurious texture—there’s no skimping on creaminess here!
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend that instantly elevates the dish with classic Mediterranean vibes.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for balancing and brightening every bite.
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just enough bite to balance all the creamy elements.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): The hero ingredient—nutty, salty, and super melty in the sauce.
Chopped Parsley (1/4 cup): Sprinkles of fresh green for color and a hint of herby zing when garnishing.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For folks who enjoy a gentle, spicy kick to complement the richness.

How to Make Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Rotini

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your rotini and cook according to the package directions, aiming for perfectly al dente noodles—they need to hold up in the rich sauce! Give them a good stir a couple of times during cooking to prevent sticking. Once done, drain them and set aside while you get the savory beef and sauce underway. (Don’t forget to save a splash of pasta water, just in case you want to thin the sauce later!)

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add your ground beef and break it apart using a sturdy spoon or spatula. Let the beef develop a deep brown color for maximum flavor. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off—but leave just a touch for extra richness. Once the beef is fully cooked and crumbly, scoop it out onto a plate and set it aside; you’ll bring it back soon!

Step 3: Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Reduce your skillet to medium heat and pour in the olive oil and butter. While the butter melts and begins to smell incredibly delicious, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute—just until it’s fragrant and golden, not brown. Now, sprinkle in the flour and stir everything together, cooking for about a minute more. This roux is key for creating a lusciously thick sauce for your Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. Slowly whisk in the beef broth and heavy cream; the sauce will soon come together, glossy and smooth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, then let your sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, until it begins to thicken beautifully.

Step 4: Add Parmesan, Beef, and Rotini

With the sauce bubbling gently, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Watch as it transforms the sauce into something magical—melty, cheesy, and oh-so-indulgent! Add the browned ground beef back into the skillet, then pile in the cooked rotini. Toss everything together until each noodle is coated in creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce. If things seem a bit too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you hit the perfect consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Spoon generous helpings onto plates or bowls, making sure there’s beef and rotini in every bite. Shower your creations with chopped parsley and, if you love a little heat, some red pepper flakes. That’s it—your Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is ready for the spotlight!

How to Serve Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a great garnish! A generous handful of chopped fresh parsley brightens the rich, creamy canvas, while a dusting of extra Parmesan ups the flavor ante. For anyone who enjoys a gentle heat, sprinkle a few red pepper flakes on top right before serving.

Side Dishes

This creamy beef pasta loves good company. Serve it with classic garlic bread for that irresistible sauce-mopping action, or lighten things up with a crisp green salad tossed with a balsamic vinaigrette. Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or even simple sautéed spinach all complement the richness of the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, scoop the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce into a large, shallow serving bowl for that show-stopping family-style effect. For a more elegant touch, use wide, rimmed pasta plates and swirl the rotini into little mounds, topped with extra herbs and a parmesan shaving. Or, try filling mini ramekins for individual portions that wow at dinner parties!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce keep beautifully in an airtight container. Pop them into the fridge, and they’ll be delicious for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but don’t worry—it’s easy to revive!

Freezing

Planning ahead? This pasta freezes quite well, thanks to its rich sauce. Cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Store for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the creamy texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore silkiness. Microwave reheating also works—cover and heat in short intervals, stirring often for even warming and to avoid overcooking the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While rotini is fantastic thanks to its sauce-clinging shape, penne, fusilli, or even farfalle work well. Just aim for a short pasta with good texture to hold up to the rich, creamy sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce won’t be quite as thick and decadent. For a non-dairy option, try an unsweetened oat or soy creamer with a dash more flour for thickening.

Will this recipe work with ground turkey or sausage?

Definitely! Swap in ground turkey or Italian sausage for the beef to create a different flavor profile—just make sure to season to taste since sausage often has built-in spices.

How do I avoid a lumpy sauce?

The key is to add your liquids gradually and whisk constantly after you add the flour. This ensures your roux melds smoothly with the broth and cream, keeping the Garlic Parmesan Sauce silky and luscious. If needed, strain the sauce before adding the beef and pasta to catch any stray lumps.

Can I make Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can fully cook the recipe and store it, or prep components separately (cook beef and pasta, make sauce) and combine when you’re ready to serve. Just reheat gently and add a splash of milk or pasta water to bring the sauce back to life.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a go-to dinner that feels both special and cozy, Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is ready to become your new favorite. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed by how quickly it comes together, and how fast your family asks for seconds!

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

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4.5 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and flavorful dish with this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe. Perfectly cooked rotini pasta tossed with seasoned ground beef in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, garnished with fresh parsley, and a hint of red pepper flakes.

Ingredients

Scale

Rotini Pasta:

12 oz rotini pasta

Ground Beef:

1 lb ground beef

Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves (minced)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
Red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Rotini: Boil rotini in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Beef: Brown ground beef in a skillet, then set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: Sauté garlic in olive oil and butter. Add flour, broth, and cream. Season and simmer until thickened.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in Parmesan, add beef and rotini to the sauce. Toss to coat.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes. Enjoy hot!