Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a comforting, creamy pasta dish that combines the richness of ground beef with the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, delicious, and filling on the table. With rotini pasta as the base, the spiral shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with savory goodness.

The garlic Parmesan sauce brings a silky, cheesy flavor that’s elevated with just the right amount of herbs and seasoning. This one-pan meal comes together in under 30 minutes and uses simple pantry staples, making it an ideal go-to recipe for when you’re short on time but don’t want to sacrifice flavor. Garnished with a touch of fresh parsley, this dish has just the right balance of richness and freshness. Whether served on its own or paired with a crisp salad or garlic bread, this pasta dish is bound to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Sauce – The garlic Parmesan sauce is comforting, cheesy, and incredibly flavorful.
2. Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
3. Simple Ingredients – Made with common pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
4. Hearty and Filling – Ground beef and rotini make this a satisfying and protein-packed meal.
5. Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the familiar flavors and creamy texture.

Ingredients

• Rotini pasta
• Ground beef
• Garlic, minced
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or butter
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

• Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
• Swap the Protein: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Use Different Pasta: Penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni can be used in place of rotini.
• Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or provolone for a gooier, cheesier version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the beef and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 4: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the beef and garlic, stirring constantly to coat. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Slowly pour in the milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Cook and stir until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and stir to combine. Let everything cook together for 2–3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm with extra Parmesan, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds the best flavor—avoid using pre-minced if possible.
• Thicken as Needed: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. If it gets too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente rotini holds up better and absorbs the sauce nicely.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-grated Parmesan may not melt as smoothly—freshly grated cheese works best.
• Season to Taste: Always taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed for best flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this dish hot as a main course, ideally accompanied by a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce. For an extra touch, serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top and a few red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, though the sauce may slightly separate when reheated. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to help rehydrate the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells works well in this recipe.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

3. What kind of Parmesan should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts best and gives the richest flavor.

4. Can I use half-and-half or cream instead of milk?

Yes, for a richer sauce, substitute part or all of the milk with cream or half-and-half.

5. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

6. How do I keep the sauce from getting lumpy?

Whisk the milk slowly into the flour-coated beef while stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

7. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, just skip the beef and add sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative.

8. What can I use instead of Italian seasoning?

A mix of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary works well as a substitute.

9. How do I make it extra creamy?

Use a mix of milk and heavy cream, or add a bit more cheese for a creamier texture.

10. Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful meal that checks all the boxes—easy to make, budget-friendly, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want a cozy dinner on the couch, this dish is sure to become a regular on your menu. With simple ingredients and big flavor, it’s proof that a great meal doesn’t have to be complicated.

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