If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and satisfying dinner, Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender rotini pasta with savory ground beef and a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce that clings to every twist of the pasta. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy enough for a weeknight meal yet indulgent enough for entertaining. Pair it with a crisp side salad or some warm garlic bread, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress.
Why Our Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Is the Best
Our Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is more than just a pasta dish—it’s a creamy, cheesy, and customizable meal that’s bound to please everyone at the table.
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: The garlic-Parmesan sauce is velvety smooth and full of flavor.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, savory goodness.
- Customizable: Easily add vegetables or swap out proteins for a new twist every time!
Ingredients Notes for Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Each ingredient in our Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce works together to create a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- 12 ounces rotini pasta: Rotini’s spiral shape is ideal for holding the creamy sauce in every bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides protein and a rich, savory base for the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to a creamy consistency.
- 2 cups milk: The base of the sauce, making it smooth and luscious.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds rich, nutty flavor. For best results, grate it fresh.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: Adds richness and is used for sautéing the garlic.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, fresh garnish that elevates the presentation.
Kitchen Tools Needed for Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
How to Make Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour into the skillet with the garlic. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the flour is golden and bubbly. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked ground beef and the drained rotini pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and beef are evenly coated in the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Store Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Variations
- Add Veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for a boost of nutrition and flavor.
- Swap Proteins: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different twist.
- Cheese Options: Mix in shredded mozzarella or asiago cheese for extra cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.
What to Serve with Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Pair this hearty dish with:
- Garlic Bread: The perfect way to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp and refreshing side dish that complements the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed green beans, asparagus, or zucchini add a fresh touch to the meal.
For a complete meal, add a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or a sparkling water infused with lemon and herbs.
Top Tips for Perfect Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta so it stays firm when tossed in the sauce.
- Whisk Constantly: Prevent lumps in the sauce by whisking continuously when adding the milk.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate Parmesan cheese fresh from a block for the best flavor and creamy consistency.
- Season Generously: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to suit your palate.
- Work Quickly: Combine the pasta and sauce while both are hot to ensure even coating and absorption of flavors.
Helpful Notes
- Double the Recipe: This dish doubles easily to feed a crowd. Use a larger skillet to accommodate the extra ingredients.
- Avoid Over-Thickening: If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of milk or pasta water.
- Prep Ahead: Cook the pasta and ground beef in advance, then quickly assemble the dish when ready to serve.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Gordon Ramsay: “Season your pasta water generously—it’s your first opportunity to add flavor to the dish.”
- Ina Garten: “For the creamiest sauce, use whole milk or even half-and-half for a richer texture.”
- Jamie Oliver: “Stir the sauce off the heat briefly before adding the pasta. It keeps the sauce smooth and prevents it from over-thickening.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta all work well in this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them just before serving.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for better flavor and melting, but pre-shredded can work in a pinch.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Simmer the sauce longer, or whisk in a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with water.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a creamy, comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this pasta is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Enjoy!
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients
- – 12 oz rotini pasta
- – 1 lb ground beef
- – 3 cloves garlic minced
- – 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- – 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- – 2 cups milk
- – 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- – 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- – Salt and pepper to taste
- – Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer to a plate.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the garlic and whisk for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked ground beef and drained rotini to the skillet. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.
- Customization: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for extra veggies. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and cornstarch instead of flour for the sauce.
