Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a creamy, savory pasta dish that’s quick to make, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or any occasion when you crave comfort food. Tender beef and spiral rotini pasta are coated in a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce that’s full of flavor. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and can easily be customized with extra vegetables or seasonings for added depth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce combines the best of both worlds—savory beef and creamy pasta—into one mouthwatering dish. The garlic Parmesan sauce is rich, flavorful, and perfectly coats each bite of pasta and beef. It’s a satisfying dish that’s easy to make and doesn’t require a lot of ingredients. The spiral-shaped rotini pasta holds onto the sauce, making every bite extra indulgent. Whether you’re serving it to your family or guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
12 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth (or beef broth)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Additional grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

(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. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Cook the Beef:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine Pasta and Beef:
- Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese if needed.
Serve:
- Serve the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 30-35 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.

Variations

Add Vegetables: Add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Extra Creamy: For an even richer sauce, you can add a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese along with the Parmesan.
Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
Cheese Lovers: Feel free to add other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina to the sauce for an even cheesier dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual servings, but the sauce may not be as creamy as when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you use.

Can I use pre-cooked beef?

Yes, you can use leftover cooked beef or rotisserie chicken if you want to save time. Simply heat it through in the skillet with the garlic before adding the cream and Parmesan.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the beef ahead of time. When ready to serve, cook the pasta, reheat the beef mixture, and toss everything together.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free. The sauce is naturally gluten-free, so the pasta substitution will make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I freeze this dish?

While pasta dishes with cream-based sauces generally don’t freeze well, you can freeze the beef and sauce mixture separately for up to 1-2 months. When ready to use, thaw the mixture in the fridge and then toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a little more Parmesan cheese or a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the sauce to thicken it.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a rich, creamy, and satisfying pasta dish that combines the best of savory beef, pasta, and a flavorful garlic Parmesan sauce. With its comforting flavors and simple ingredients, it’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving something delicious and hearty. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings for a dish that’s truly your own!