Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a comforting, creamy pasta dish that combines tender ground beef with a rich, flavorful garlic Parmesan sauce. The rotini pasta’s spiral shape holds onto the sauce perfectly, making every bite satisfyingly creamy and cheesy. This recipe offers a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty meal with simple ingredients that come together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. The savory garlic blends beautifully with the Parmesan cheese to create a luscious sauce that elevates the ground beef and pasta into something truly special.

Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this dish brings a classic Italian-inspired flavor to your table without complicated steps or long cooking times. You can enjoy this as a family dinner, a casual meal with friends, or even meal prep for the week ahead. The fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the creamy sauce with a hint of herbaceous brightness. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is sure to become a favorite comfort food in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce That’s Full of Flavor

The sauce is rich and cheesy with a perfect garlic kick.

2. Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal

Ready in under 30 minutes, making dinner stress-free.

3. Uses Simple Pantry Ingredients

No need for specialty items, perfect for any home cook.

4. Rotini Pasta Holds the Sauce Beautifully

The spirals trap the sauce for every bite to be deliciously coated.

5. Versatile and Customizable

Can easily add vegetables or swap proteins to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• Rotini pasta
• Ground beef
• Garlic, minced
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or butter
• Fresh parsley

Variations

• Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
• Cheese: Substitute or add mozzarella or Romano cheese for a different flavor.
• Spice: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can replace or complement the parsley garnish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

Step 3

Add minced garlic to the beef and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 5

Gradually pour in milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7

Add cooked rotini to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.

Step 8

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce.
• Don’t skip cooking the flour to avoid a raw taste in the sauce.
• Stir constantly when adding milk to prevent lumps.
• Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushy texture after mixing.
• Add pasta water a little at a time if sauce is too thick.

How to Serve

Serve this dish warm with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs well with steamed vegetables or roasted Brussels sprouts to add freshness and crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or shells work well with the sauce.

2. Is this recipe dairy-free?

No, it contains milk and Parmesan cheese, but you can substitute with dairy-free alternatives.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Stir constantly when adding milk and avoid overheating.

5. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, add cooked or sautéed vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms.

6. How long does it take to make?

About 25-30 minutes from start to finish.

7. Can I use leftover cooked beef?

Yes, just warm it with the sauce before adding pasta.

8. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheeses are good alternatives.

9. Can I make this recipe vegan?

You would need vegan cheese, plant-based milk, and a meat substitute.

10. How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a hearty and comforting dish that’s simple to prepare yet packed with rich flavors. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce coats every bite of tender rotini and savory ground beef, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or meal prep. Its versatility allows for easy adjustments, making this a recipe you’ll return to time and again.

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