Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This creamy, savory pasta dish blends tender ground beef, rotini, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce—easy, hearty, and pure comfort in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Main Dishes
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
→ For the Pasta:
12 oz (340g) rotini pasta (regular or whole wheat)
Water and salt (for boiling)
→ For the Beef:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 or lean)
1 small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (if using lean beef)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
½ 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
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Boil rotini in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. Lightly toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil (if using).
Add ground beef, cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking apart. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
Transfer beef to a plate and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic, cook for 1 minute.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Gradually whisk in milk, simmer 4–5 minutes until thickened.
Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
Combine & Serve:
Add cooked beef and rotini to the sauce. Toss gently to coat.
Cook for 1–2 more minutes to blend flavors.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use fresh Parmesan for best flavor and meltability.
Add a splash of broth or white wine to deglaze the skillet after cooking beef for deeper flavor.
Customize with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or cream cheese for variations.
