Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s bursting with creamy, cheesy flavor and tender beef, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. This dish combines perfectly cooked rotini pasta with savory ground beef, all enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce that feels both elegant and wonderfully homey. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers big on taste while being surprisingly simple to pull together. Trust me, once you try Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce, it’ll become one of your go-to comfort foods.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward a truly flavorful and satisfying meal. Each one plays a crucial role: the rotini gives you those perfect little spirals to hold onto the sauce, the ground beef brings rich, savory depth, and the garlic and Parmesan come together to create a sauce that’s creamy, aromatic, and utterly irresistible.
- 12 ounces rotini pasta: Its spiral shape clings beautifully to the creamy sauce for every delicious bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds hearty protein and a deep, meaty flavor to balance the richness of the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is the star for that irresistible aromatic punch—adjust to your taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings luxurious creaminess that makes this pasta incredibly comforting.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding sharp, nutty flavor and that signature Parmesan tang.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds a savory depth and helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for browning the beef and infusing the dish with subtle fruity notes.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish beautifully.
- Black pepper to taste: Gives a gentle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds fresh color and a hint of herbaceous brightness to finish.
How to Make Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Rotini to Al Dente
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente so that it holds perfectly under the creamy sauce without getting mushy. Once done, drain thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until all the meat is nicely browned—this takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper as it cooks; it boosts the beef’s flavor and ensures a well-seasoned base for your sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Next, stir the minced garlic into the browned beef and let it cook for about 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s perfect when the kitchen starts to fill with that warm, inviting aroma of garlic—the foundation of so many great dishes.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Cream
Turn the heat down to low and pour in the beef broth along with the heavy cream. Stir everything together and let it gently simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This slow melding of flavors creates that wonderful creamy texture that brings the dish together.
Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened a bit, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. It will melt into the sauce, making it even richer and adding a deliciously sharp tang. Taste your sauce now and adjust the salt and pepper if needed to make sure every flavor shines.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, add the cooked rotini to your skillet and toss everything gently to coat each piece of pasta evenly with the luscious sauce. This ensures every bite delivers that perfect balance of beef, garlic, and Parmesan creaminess.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Plate your pasta, sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and add extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Now, dig in and enjoy the magic of Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce!
How to Serve Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Garnishes
Chopped parsley is a classic choice to brighten up the plate with its fresh, herbaceous note and appealing green color. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan cheese on top. If you like a bit of heat, red pepper flakes work beautifully as a garnish, adding a subtle kick that contrasts the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This rich Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce pairs perfectly with simple, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing crunch. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also complement the dish with their earthy flavors. For a heartier meal, garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual bowls with a sprig of parsley on top for an elegant look. If you want to impress guests, drizzle a little truffle oil over the finished dish to add a luxurious aroma. Another creative idea is to bake the pasta briefly with extra Parmesan in a casserole dish, creating a golden, cheesy crust that’s irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a great choice for meal prep or a quick lunch the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but for the best texture and flavor, freeze only the sauce and beef mixture separately from the pasta. Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Avoid microwaving if possible, as gentle warming preserves the creamy texture best.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini works excellently because of its shape holding the sauce, penne, rigatoni, or even farfalle would also be delicious alternatives. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to the package.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. The original flavor will change slightly but can still be wonderfully satisfying.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Sure! Ground turkey is a leaner option and will still work well. Just be mindful that it cooks faster and can dry out, so monitor the cooking time closely and consider adding a bit more broth or cream.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a few minutes longer to reduce and concentrate flavors. You can also stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) while simmering, but go slowly to avoid over-thickening.
What wine pairs well with Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce?
Try a medium-bodied red wine like a Merlot or a Chianti. These wines have enough acidity and fruitiness to complement the rich beef and creamy Parmesan sauce without overpowering it.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is one of those meals that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate. It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy enough to make any night of the week. I encourage you to try this recipe and see how quickly it becomes a favorite in your kitchen. Sharing this dish with family or friends is guaranteed to bring smiles and full bellies every time!
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Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A creamy and flavorful dish combining tender rotini pasta with savory ground beef in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (adjust according to your taste preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
Garnish
- chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and toss gently until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Divide the pasta among plates, garnish with chopped parsley, and add extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, noting the sauce will be less rich.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to enhance the dish.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust garlic quantity to your preference for more or less pungency.
- Ensure the pasta is not overcooked; al dente retains texture and absorbs sauce better.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
Keywords: beef pasta, garlic Parmesan sauce, rotini recipe, creamy pasta, weeknight dinner, Italian-American cuisine
