Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

If you have been craving a hearty, comforting, and super flavorful pasta dish that feels just right for any night of the week, then you are going to fall in love with this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe. This dish brings together tender ground beef, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce so luscious it feels like a warm, delicious hug. Every bite bursts with savory goodness, creamy indulgence, and just the right hint of herbs and spice, making it a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful choice of ingredients. Each plays a vital role, from the rotini’s spiral shape that hugs the sauce to the fresh garlic and Parmesan cheese that make the flavor sing.

• 12 oz rotini pasta: The perfect spiral shape to trap every bit of that creamy sauce.
• 1 tsp salt (for boiling water): Essential for seasoning the pasta as it cooks to enhance flavor inside and out.
• 1 lb ground beef: Provides hearty richness and protein, making this dish truly satisfying.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the garlic Parmesan sauce, bringing aromatic warmth.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Ensures balanced seasoning throughout the beef mixture.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Gives just the right subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Creates a silky base for the sauce and enriches the texture.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to creamy perfection without clumps.
• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half): Dreams up that luscious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty flavor and melts into the sauce for incredible creaminess.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Infuses the sauce with classic herbs that awaken every component.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a touch of heat to balance the creamy richness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To make sure every mouthful is perfectly seasoned.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: A fresh, vibrant finish that brightens the dish.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: For sprinkling on top and adding that irresistible cheesy kick.

How to Make Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a teaspoon of salt. This foundation step ensures the rotini is seasoned right from the start. Cook the pasta until just al dente, meaning it should be tender but still have a little bite to avoid mushiness when tossed in the sauce. Drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the flavorful beef and sauce combo.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, add the ground beef and cook it over medium heat. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it browns, allowing it to develop that rich, deep flavor. The browned bits in the pan will later enrich your sauce, so resist the urge to rush this step — patience here really rewards your taste buds.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook together for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the onions soften and release their sweet aroma. Season this mixture lightly with salt and pepper to build layers of flavor. Once everything is tender and fragrant, remove the beef mixture and set it aside, keeping those wonderful browned bits in the pan for what comes next.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour in all at once and whisk vigorously to create a smooth roux — the base for your creamy sauce. Cook this for a couple of minutes until it turns a light golden hue; this step eliminates any raw flour taste and thickens the sauce beautifully.

Step 5: Add Milk and Thicken

Slowly whisk in the whole milk (or half-and-half if you want extra creaminess), making sure no lumps form as you stir continuously. Allow the sauce to thicken gently for about 3 to 4 minutes — you’ll notice it becoming luxuriously creamy and coating the back of the spoon just right.

Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Seasonings

Remove the sauce from heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste — these ingredients meld together to create the distinct garlic Parmesan flavor that defines the dish.

Step 7: Combine Beef and Pasta

Return the cooked beef and onion mixture to the skillet, then add the drained rotini pasta. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure every spiral is drenched in the glorious sauce. The combination of textures — chewy rotini, tender beef, and silky sauce — is absolutely divine.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the dish hot, garnished generously with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. These final touches bring freshness and an inviting look. Now it’s time to dig in and savor every delicious forkful!

How to Serve Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh chopped parsley not only brings a pop of green and a subtle herbaceous note but also balances the richness of the cheese sauce beautifully. A final shower of extra Parmesan cheese elevates the dish with an irresistible cheesy crust on top.

Side Dishes

Light and fresh sides such as a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables complement this creamy, hearty main wonderfully. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls also make a perfect companion to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, try serving this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs and extra Parmesan, then briefly broiled until golden and bubbly. Or arrange it family-style in a large serving bowl with fresh herbs scattered on top for a welcoming centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish refrigerates beautifully for up to 3 days. Keep the leftovers in an airtight container and you’ll find that the flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal even better than the first.

Freezing

While the creamy sauce is delicious fresh, freezing is possible although the texture may shift slightly. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months, making sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

When ready to eat leftovers, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to bring back that creamy consistency. Adding a splash of milk or water can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of rotini?

Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for holding onto the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even shells will work nicely if that’s what you have on hand.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Swap out the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat alternative to keep the rich textures without the meat.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Using skim milk or a milk alternative and reducing the butter slightly can lighten the sauce, though it may be less creamy and indulgent.

Can I prepare any parts of the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic a day ahead, then just assemble and cook the sauce fresh when ready to serve for quicker prep.

What’s the best Parmesan cheese to use?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (not the powdered stuff in a jar) makes the biggest difference for a rich, authentic flavor and smooth melting in the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe is one of those comforting classics that quickly becomes a household favorite. Its creamy sauce, tender beef, and perfectly cooked rotini create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to love. Don’t hesitate to make it for your next weeknight dinner or special gathering — it’s sure to bring smiles and happy tummies all around!

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

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4.3 from 34 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This comforting dish features tender rotini pasta tossed with savory ground beef and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, enriched with aromatic Italian seasoning and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 12 oz (340g) rotini pasta
• 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)

Beef Mixture

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer sauce)
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Extra Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Remove this beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is lightly golden and fragrant to form a roux.
5. Add Milk: Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the sauce while stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
6. Season the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if using, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine.
7. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked beef mixture to the skillet, then add the drained rotini pasta. Toss everything together thoroughly so that the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
8. Serve: Serve the dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese to add brightness and extra flavor.

Notes

• Use half-and-half instead of milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on your desired spice level or omit for no heat.
• Reserve some pasta water before draining if the sauce needs thinning later.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese yields the best flavor compared to pre-grated.
• For a low-fat version, substitute whole milk with 2% milk and use lean ground beef.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American