Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender beef and pasta tossed in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce. It’s a comforting, quick, and satisfying meal that combines savory beef, a rich sauce, and perfectly cooked rotini for a complete dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining the best of both worlds: tender beef and rotini pasta, coated in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. The savory garlic and nutty Parmesan flavor makes the sauce irresistible, while the beef adds a hearty and filling element. It’s quick to make, requiring just a few ingredients, and perfect for a busy weeknight or a family dinner.

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or beef strips for a different texture)
12 oz rotini pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Continue to simmer for 3–5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli to the beef and pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Beef and Rotini: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the garlic and beef for a spicy kick.
Chicken Version: Swap the ground beef for chicken breast or thigh strips for a lighter variation.
Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of rotini for a low-carb version of the dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rotini with any other short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle.

2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works great in this recipe and offers a lighter alternative.

3. Is this dish gluten-free?

This dish is not gluten-free unless you use gluten-free pasta. Make sure to choose a gluten-free pasta brand if you need the recipe to be gluten-free.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, to make this recipe dairy-free, use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook and prepare this dish ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh as the sauce may thicken when stored. You can reheat it by adding a little more cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

6. Can I freeze Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 2–3 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding a little cream or broth if necessary.

7. How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken. To thin it out, add a bit more cream or broth until you reach your desired consistency.

8. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, fresh garlic is perfect for this recipe. Just mince 4 cloves of garlic to add to the sauce.

9. Can I add other spices or herbs?

Feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley to add extra layers of flavor. A bit of freshly grated nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the flavor.

10. How can I make this recipe lighter?

To lighten up this dish, you can use a lighter cream, like half-and-half, or a non-dairy cream substitute. Reducing the cheese or using a lighter cheese can also help reduce the richness.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a satisfying, rich, and flavorful dish that will quickly become a household favorite. With tender beef, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether for a quick weeknight meal or a special treat, this dish is sure to impress!

Chef MARTHA