Beef And Rotini In Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Savory Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Creamy garlic parmesan beef and rotini dance together in a mouthwatering symphony of flavors that will make you weak in the knees.

Pasta lovers understand the magic of comfort food that feels both elegant and satisfying.

Juicy beef chunks nestle perfectly among twirled rotini, creating a delightful texture in every single bite.

Weeknight dinners call for something quick yet impressive, and this recipe checks all the boxes.

parmesan cheese adds a sharp, nutty complexity that elevates the entire dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Simple ingredients combine to create something truly spectacular that feels like a restaurant-quality meal.

Come hungry and leave completely enchanted by this irresistible culinary experience.

Best Practices for Storing Beef and Rotini Leftovers

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly to prevent moisture loss and prevent absorbing other food odors.
  • Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to maintain moisture, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
  • Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore sauce consistency. Stir gently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

FAQs

  • Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and pasta make it appealing to children, and the ground beef provides protein they typically enjoy.

  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini works great, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or any similar short pasta shape that holds sauce well.

  • Do I need any special cooking skills to make this recipe?

Not at all. This dish is beginner-friendly with simple steps like browning beef, sauteing garlic, and mixing ingredients in one skillet.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using lean ground beef, reducing butter, using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and adding extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition.

Discover the Flavor of Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Discover the Flavor of Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
  • Whip Up Quickly: Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan meal comes together in minutes with minimal cleanup, making it a go-to solution for hungry families.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows substitutions like different pasta shapes, ground turkey, or adding extra vegetables to suit personal tastes and dietary needs.
  • Creamy Comfort Classic: Rich garlic Parmesan sauce creates a luxurious, indulgent dining experience that feels like a restaurant-quality meal prepared right in your kitchen.
  • Family-Friendly Favorite: Kid-approved dish with familiar ingredients that both adults and children will love, ensuring a peaceful and satisfying mealtime.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Beef and Rotini

Main Ingredients:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein that adds rich flavor and substance to the dish.
  • Rotini Pasta: A spiral-shaped pasta that holds sauce beautifully and provides a satisfying texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A sharp, salty cheese that creates a creamy and flavorful sauce.
Dairy and Fats:
  • Heavy Cream: Provides a luxurious, smooth base for the sauce.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps develop depth of flavor.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Garlic, Fresh Parsley: Garlic offers a bold, aromatic flavor while parsley provides a fresh, bright garnish.
  • Olive Oil: Helps brown the beef and adds a subtle background flavor.
Additional Liquids:
  • Broth: Enhances the overall depth and savory quality of the sauce.
  • Pasta Water: Helps adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Garlic Parmesan Beef and Rotini

Step-by-Step Guide to Garlic Parmesan Beef and Rotini

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Prepare rotini pasta following package directions.

Once cooked, drain and set aside in a large bowl.

Step 2: Brown Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook ground beef until it’s completely browned and no pink remains.

Transfer beef to a separate plate.

Step 3: Saute Garlic

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic.

Sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden, releasing its rich aroma.

Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce

Add to the skillet:
  • Heavy cream
  • Chicken broth

Stir ingredients together and let simmer for 2 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese

Whisk Parmesan cheese into the sauce until it melts completely, creating a smooth and velvety texture.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return browned beef to the skillet.

Add cooked rotini pasta and gently toss everything together, ensuring each pasta piece is evenly coated with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.

Step 7: Adjust Sauce Consistency

If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Step 8: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top.

Add extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serve immediately while hot.

Tips to Perfect Your Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  • Cook rotini al dente to maintain a slight bite and prevent mushiness when mixed with the sauce.
  • Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version without sacrificing creamy texture.
  • Roast garlic beforehand for a mellower, sweeter flavor or use fresh minced garlic for a sharper taste.
  • Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for alternative dietary preferences.
  • Grate Parmesan fresh for maximum flavor and melt more smoothly compared to pre-packaged shredded cheese.

Variations to Personalize Beef and Rotini

  • Gluten-Free Zucchini Noodle Version: Replace rotini with spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative that keeps the creamy garlic Parmesan flavor intact.
  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms to create a meat-free version that maintains the dish's rich texture.
  • Dairy-Free Cream Alternative: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for those with lactose intolerance or dairy restrictions.
  • Mediterranean Herb Infusion: Add sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and oregano to transform the recipe into a Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

Presentation Tips for Garlic Parmesan Beef and Rotini

  • Cozy Family Dinner Delight: Serve this hearty pasta dish with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the creamy sauce.
  • Bread Pairing Perfection: Toasted garlic bread or crusty Italian bread slices work wonderfully for soaking up the delicious Parmesan sauce.
  • Fresh Herb Finish: Sprinkle extra chopped fresh parsley or basil on top to add a bright, fresh element that cuts through the creamy texture.
  • Wine Companion: Pair with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Pinot Noir to complement the beef and garlic flavors.
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Beef And Rotini In Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Beef And Rotini In Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe


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4.9 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Delicious beef and rotini in garlic parmesan sauce brings Italian comfort to dinner tables. Quick weeknight meal combines tender meat, pasta, and creamy sauce for a satisfying dinner you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef (or thinly sliced sirloin)
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) rotini pasta
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken or beef broth
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasonings and Garnish:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Boil rotini pasta in salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain thoroughly and reserve a cup of pasta water.
  2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes, breaking into small crumbles until no pink remains.
  3. Remove beef from skillet, leaving behind flavorful drippings.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and melt butter, then add minced garlic, sautéing quickly until aromatic but not browned.
  5. Pour heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
  6. Simmer the cream mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken.
  7. Gradually whisk Parmesan cheese into the sauce until completely melted and smooth.
  8. Return cooked beef to the skillet and fold in the rotini pasta, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
  9. If sauce seems too thick, incorporate reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
  10. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese before serving hot.

Notes

  • Pasta Water Magic: Reserve some starchy pasta water to help create a silky, clingy sauce that perfectly coats every noodle without being too thick or thin.
  • Low-Carb Swap: Replace rotini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version that maintains the rich, creamy flavor profile.
  • Flavor Boost: Toast garlic briefly to enhance its nutty undertones and prevent burning, which can make the sauce bitter and harsh.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to create a creamy, plant-based version that still delivers incredible depth of flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 720 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 48 g
  • Saturated Fat: 22 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 23 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 135 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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