Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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Creamy, rich, and perfectly savory, this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a one-pan dream that brings comfort food to new heights. The savory ground beef is gently cooked and wrapped in a velvety garlic Parmesan sauce, then folded together with rotini pasta that catches every drop of flavor in its spirals. It’s a satisfying dish that brings the family to the table fast and leaves nothing behind but clean plates.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or prepping for leftovers that actually taste better the next day, this is a go-to meal worth bookmarking. It combines the heartiness of beef with the irresistible richness of garlic and Parmesan in a way that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. You’ll want to keep this one in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This dish delivers on flavor and ease. The garlic Parmesan sauce comes together quickly but tastes like it simmered all day, and the rotini adds the perfect texture to carry that creaminess. It’s a full meal in one pan with protein, pasta, and sauce all in harmony.

It’s also flexible—add in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to put your own spin on it. Perfect for picky eaters and comfort-food lovers alike, it reheats like a dream, making it ideal for meal prep.

What Kind of Rotini Should I Use?

You can use regular rotini or whole wheat, depending on your preference. The spiral shape of rotini is perfect for holding onto the garlic Parmesan sauce. If you want a gluten-free option, chickpea or lentil rotini will also work well while adding a bit of extra protein.

Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente, so it doesn’t overcook when tossed into the sauce. Avoid very delicate pasta shapes, as they won’t hold up as well with the beef and creamy sauce.

Ingredients for the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This recipe uses basic ingredients that come together into something greater than the sum of its parts. Each component plays an important role in building the deep, savory, creamy flavor we all crave. Freshness matters here—from the beef to the garlic, using quality ingredients makes all the difference.

• Rotini pasta
• Ground beef
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Butter
• Beef broth
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley (optional)

How To Make the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or deep pan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in beef broth and stir to deglaze the pan. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the beef to the pan, then fold in the cooked rotini. Toss everything together, letting the pasta soak up the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your liking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot, ideally with a slice of crusty bread or a crisp side salad.

How to Serve and Store Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but it also makes a great partner to light sides and a crisp drink. It feeds about 4 to 6 people, depending on serving size. The creamy sauce tends to thicken as it sits, so you may want to stir in a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave with a touch of liquid to loosen the sauce. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce?

Fresh Green Salad

A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette brings a refreshing balance to the richness of the pasta.

Garlic Bread

The classic combo. Perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce left on your plate.

Roasted Asparagus

Its slightly bitter, charred flavor cuts through the creaminess beautifully.

Steamed Broccoli

Adds color and crunch while staying on the lighter side.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

More carbs? Yes please. These echo the Parmesan in the sauce for a savory match.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

The tang of the tomatoes complements the garlicky, cheesy sauce with a warm, comforting touch.

Grilled Zucchini

Simple, smoky, and perfect for summer servings.

Sparkling Water with Lemon or a Light White Wine

For drinks, go crisp and refreshing to contrast the boldness of the beef and sauce.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is your kind of comfort food, you might fall for these other cozy and creative dishes from the blog:

• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a quick meatless option with a tangy, velvety finish.
• One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni when you want something hearty and minimal cleanup.
• Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon if you’re craving seafood with rich, bright flavor.
• Zucchini Lasagna to keep things low-carb without skimping on comfort.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a spicy Southern kick that pairs perfectly with Parmesan.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime you’re craving bold, creamy flavors with a beefy twist.

I love seeing how you all make this your own. Did you toss in mushrooms or switch up the pasta? Maybe added red pepper flakes for a kick? Let me know in the comments!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and weeknight winners on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover something new to inspire your meals.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce proves you don’t need an elaborate list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create something memorable. It hits all the right notes—hearty, creamy, and comforting. Whether it’s your new favorite weeknight meal or your next go-to for meal prep, this dish makes dinner feel like something to look forward to.

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