Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Packed with savory ground beef, tender rotini pasta, and a dreamy, garlic-infused Parmesan sauce, Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is one of those feel-good meals you’ll want to share (but secretly hope for leftovers). This recipe brings together all the comforts of a cozy pasta night with rich, creamy flavors and just enough garlic to keep things exciting. Simple enough for a weeknight, yet impressive on any dinner table, it’s a go-to favorite for anyone longing for the ultimate creamy pasta experience—and it all comes together in less than 30 minutes!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this dish is chosen to perfectly balance flavor, texture, and color, making every bite memorable. You won’t need anything fancy—just pantry staples and a few fresh touches for that irresistible homemade feel.

• Rotini pasta (12 ounces): This spiral-shaped pasta is ideal for cupping the luscious sauce and holding onto little bits of beef.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A splash of this golden oil helps brown the beef and begins building those delicious base flavors.
• Ground beef (1 pound): Choose lean ground beef for the perfect mix of rich flavor and just enough moisture.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Freshly minced garlic is key here—you’ll taste its warmth all the way through the sauce.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Butter kicks off the creamy roux, adding richness to the sauce base.
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): A little flour thickens the sauce without making it heavy.
• Whole milk (2 cups): Milk makes the sauce silky smooth and perfectly creamy.
• Beef broth (1/2 cup): This adds a deep, savory note that ties the beef and sauce together beautifully.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enough to bring all the flavors forward—don’t skip it!
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just a touch of pepper gives a subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a gentle kick, these flakes boost the flavor and color.
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated): Real Parmesan melts into the sauce, creating a nutty, sharp finish that’s hard to beat.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup): This touch of cream thickens the sauce and makes it extra decadent.
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional): Parsley brightens up the final presentation and offers a fresh, herby lift.

How to Make Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the rotini pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—just tender but still with a little bite. Drain it well and set aside. That perfect texture helps the pasta soak up every ounce of the gorgeous Garlic Parmesan Sauce later on.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a generously sized skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown and sizzle until cooked through, which gives you a wonderful base of flavor for the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. Drain off any extra grease to keep the dish lighter and prevent the sauce from feeling heavy.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

With the beef still in the pan, add in your minced garlic. Stir and sauté for about a minute, just until the garlic is fragrant. This step infuses the beef with its signature savory punch—you’ll smell the promise of something truly mouthwatering!

Step 4: Make the Roux

Push the beef to one side of your skillet and drop in the butter on the other. Let it melt, then sprinkle in the flour. Whisk and stir the mixture for about a minute. This roux is the secret to a rich, smooth sauce for your Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Slowly pour in the milk and beef broth, whisking constantly until the mixture begins to thicken. Add salt, black pepper, and those optional red pepper flakes if you’re craving a hint of heat. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan and the heavy cream. Watch as everything melts into a glossy, creamy sauce that makes this dish unforgettable.

Step 6: Toss and Finish

Add the cooked rotini straight into the skillet and toss to completely coat every spiral with your beefy, garlicky, parmesan-kissed sauce. Keep everything on the heat for another two or three minutes, just to let the flavors meld and the dish warm through. If you like, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a final burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Garnishes

Nothing brightens up a bowl of Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce quite like a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. You might also add a flurry of extra Parmesan or a pinch of cracked black pepper to finish. Serve it hot and the aroma will be utterly irresistible!

Side Dishes

This dish is already rich and filling, but you can serve it alongside a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette, or perhaps some roasted broccoli or asparagus for a pop of color and nutrition. Warm, crusty bread is also perfect for mopping up any of that luscious sauce left on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, spoon your Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce into shallow pasta bowls and garnish each with a parmesan crisp or a handful of microgreens. It also looks beautiful served family style on a big platter at the center of the table, inviting everyone to dig in and help themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let them cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Your Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce will stay fresh and delicious in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezing

To freeze, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers. This dish freezes best without the parsley garnish—add that fresh when reheating later. For the best texture, try to consume frozen portions within two months.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to help loosen up the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through, then serve with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

FAQs

Can I use another type Main Course

Absolutely! While rotini’s shape perfectly hugs the sauce, penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli will work wonderfully. Just choose a shape that has plenty of little nooks for that Garlic Parmesan Sauce.

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Definitely. Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a different spin on Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. The robust sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins.

Will pre-grated Parmesan cheese work?

Pre-grated is convenient, but freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother, lending the sauce its classic creamy finish. If you use pre-grated, double-check that it’s real Parmesan and not a powdery blend.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the full dish and let it cool, then store covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently with a splash of milk for best results. The flavors actually get even better after resting a bit.

What vegetables can I add?

Sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, or roasted bell peppers make excellent additions. Just stir them in with the pasta for a burst of extra flavor and color in your Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been looking for that next-level comfort food to wow your dinner crowd, look no further than Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. It’s fast, satisfying, and absolutely packed with flavor—so go ahead and give it a try. One forkful, and you just might have a new family favorite!

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