Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
If your comfort food dreams involve creamy sauce, plenty of savory beef, and noodles that lovingly catch every last drop, then you’re about to fall head-over-heels for Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. This dish is a celebration of weeknight simplicity and restaurant-quality flavors, all in one skillet. Whether you need a new go-to dinner for busy evenings or you’re simply craving something cheesy and satisfying, Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce always hits the spot—rich, garlicky, and filled with little spirals of joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a laundry list to bring extraordinary flavor to your table. Each ingredient in Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce serves a specific purpose, from the way the cheese melts to the aromatic punch of the garlic—every bite is layered with goodness.
- Rotini pasta (8 oz): These spirals are perfect for catching the garlicky, cheesy sauce—no drop left behind!
- Ground beef (1 lb): Go for 80/20 for richness and tenderness; the beef makes every mouthful hearty and filling.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For browning the beef and adding fruity undertones to the sauce.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Nothing beats the aroma and flavor of fresh garlic sautéed with beef.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): This is the backbone of the creamy sauce—don’t substitute if you want that luscious texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Freshly grated melts beautifully and brings salty, nutty depth.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A classic blend of herbs for that extra “pop” of Italian flavor.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Season each layer for perfect flavor balance.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A sprinkle at the end adds color, freshness, and a little herbal 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, then toss in your rotini. Cook until al dente (about 8 to 10 minutes), as they’ll soak up even more of that garlic Parmesan goodness later. Drain well and set aside—but don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles with your spoon, until there’s no pink left and the pieces are just beginning to brown. This adds a deep, savory base to the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce, so don’t rush this part!
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Season
Sprinkle minced garlic over the beef and stir for a minute or two—just until the kitchen fills with that mouthwatering garlicky fragrance. Then add Italian seasoning, plus salt and pepper to taste. Those little flecks of herbs will cozy right up to the beef, giving every bite an earthy, aromatic note.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; don’t let it boil. Stir well so the beef releases its flavor into the cream, creating the signature sauce for your Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce.
Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan by the handful into the skillet, stirring constantly. The cheese will melt, thickening the sauce into pure creamy luxury. If you notice the sauce is getting too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it’s just right.
Step 6: Toss in the Pasta
Add the cooked rotini right into the skillet. Use a big spoon to gently toss everything together—make sure every spiral is luxuriously coated in that garlic Parmesan sauce and beef mixture.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Plate your Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce while hot, then shower each serving with freshly chopped parsley. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan never hurt anyone, either!
How to Serve Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Garnishes
There’s nothing like a little fresh parsley to brighten up a creamy pasta, but you can also add a final dusting of Parmesan or even a few red pepper flakes for gentle heat. The key is to create a contrast—each garnish brings either color, zest, or a bit of punch to lift all those comforting flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish is a star on its own, but it pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or garlicky bread for mopping up every last bit of sauce. A simple Caesar salad or steamed broccoli can round out the meal and add a touch of freshness alongside this rich main.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Try portioning the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce into mini ramekins and broil with a little extra Parmesan for a melty, bubbly top. Or, serve family-style straight from the skillet, sprinkled with colorful microgreens for a rustic, homey feel. Individual bowls with a drizzle of good olive oil and cracked pepper also give an elevated touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce stores like a champ. Simply transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The pasta will soak up more sauce, making each reheated bite even more flavorful.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, let the pasta cool completely before packaging in freezer-safe containers or bags. While the cream sauce might thicken and the pasta texture becomes softer after thawing, a quick stir with a bit of milk or cream will bring it back to creamy life. Use within 1 to 2 months for best flavor.
Reheating
Reheat Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through. For those in a hurry, the microwave works too—just do it in short intervals, stirring between each burst to avoid overheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini really grabs onto the sauce, you can swap in penne, fusilli, or even farfalle. Adjust the cooking time as needed, but be sure to choose a shape with some texture to hold the creamy sauce.
Is it possible to lighten up the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce will be thinner and slightly less rich. Try adding a touch more Parmesan to thicken things up if needed.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Sure can! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free rotini pasta and double-check that your Parmesan and seasonings are gluten-free. The sauce and beef are naturally gluten-free as written.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
If you’re all out of fresh garlic, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder will do in a pinch. Add it with the beef and Italian seasoning to infuse the sauce evenly.
Can Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce be meal prepped?
Definitely! Divide the finished pasta into single-serving containers and refrigerate. It’s a fantastic grab-and-go lunch—just add a splash of milk when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for something cozy, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy, you owe it to yourself to try Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. With simple ingredients and just a few steps, it’s a dinner that always brings the “wow” factor—so grab your skillet and make tonight delicious!
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Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a decadent meal with this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe. Velvety, creamy, and rich with flavors, this dish is a comforting delight for pasta lovers.
Ingredients
For Rotini:
- 8 oz Rotini pasta
For Beef:
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
For Sauce:
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rotini pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Sauté Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add ground beef, and sauté until browned.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Make Sauce: Pour in heavy cream, simmer, and add Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Combine: Add cooked rotini to the skillet, toss until coated with sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese; serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Beef Rotini, Garlic Parmesan Pasta, Creamy Pasta Recipe
