Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I keep coming back to this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between comforting and indulgent. The garlic Parmesan sauce is luxuriously creamy without being too heavy, and the beef gives the dish richness and substance. Rotini holds the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. It’s also a flexible recipe—I can swap proteins, add veggies, or make it lighter if I want to. Best of all, everything comes together quickly, making it ideal for a stress-free dinner.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pasta
12 oz rotini pasta
Water and salt for boiling

For the Beef
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (if using lean beef)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
3 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini until al dente, according to the package. After draining, I drizzle a little olive oil to keep it from sticking.

2. Prepare the Beef
   In a large skillet, I heat olive oil (if needed) and cook the ground beef until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Then I add onion, garlic, and seasonings, cooking until the onions are soft. Once done, I transfer it to a plate.

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
   Using the same skillet, I melt butter and sauté the garlic for a minute. I whisk in the flour and cook it for another minute or two to remove the raw taste. Then I slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly. Once the sauce thickens, I stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth. I season it to taste with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg.

4. Combine and Serve
   I return the beef to the sauce, add the cooked rotini, and toss gently to combine everything. After letting it cook together for a minute or two, I garnish with fresh parsley and serve it warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people and takes around 30–35 minutes from start to finish. That includes prep and cooking, which makes it a solid choice when I want dinner on the table fast without sacrificing flavor.

Variations

I like how easily this recipe adapts to different ingredients:

Protein Options:

• Ground turkey or chicken works well for a leaner version.

• Italian sausage adds a bold, spicy kick.

Sauce Add-ins:

• Cream cheese makes the sauce even creamier.

• Spinach or kale gives it a nutritious twist.

• Sun-dried tomatoes bring a bit of tang and depth.

Cheese Swaps:

• I’ve used sharp cheddar and Asiago when I’m out of Parmesan, and both work beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Storage:
I let any leftovers cool fully, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating:
When reheating, I use a skillet with a splash of milk or broth to bring the sauce back to life. The microwave works too, but I stir it every 30–40 seconds to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it the night before. It reheats wonderfully with a bit of extra milk to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce?

I can freeze it, though the sauce might separate slightly. Slow reheating with milk or broth usually fixes the texture.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Definitely. I just use gluten-free rotini and swap the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. I’ve stirred in peas, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers, and they all taste great with the creamy sauce.

What can I serve with this pasta?

I like serving it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. Roasted vegetables work well too.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce has become one of my favorite go-to comfort meals. It’s creamy, satisfying, and packed with savory flavor, all while being easy to prepare. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family or looking to meal prep a few days in advance, this dish checks every box.

It’s cozy, quick, and versatile—just the kind of meal I love having in my weekly rotation. If you’re like me and crave rich, cheesy pasta with real flavor, this one is a must-try.

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