There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of beef and rotini in garlic Parmesan sauce filling your kitchen. This hearty dish features tender beef, perfectly al dente rotini, and a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying.

I first created this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. It has since become a family favorite, perfect for weeknights and special occasions alike. Let’s dive into why this recipe will soon become one of your go-to meals!

Why You’ll Love This Beef And Rotini In Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Get ready to discover your new favorite comfort food. This recipe is everything you need in a dinner: quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious.

First, it’s a breeze to make. With just one pot for the pasta and one skillet for the beef and sauce, cleanup is minimal. Plus, it’s ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Second, the flavor is out of this world. The creamy Parmesan sauce is infused with garlic, creating a robust base that perfectly complements the savory beef and tender pasta.

Another reason to love this dish? It’s family-friendly. Even picky eaters will devour it, and you can easily customize it to suit everyone’s preferences.

Lastly, it’s versatile. Whether you want to keep it simple or dress it up with extra veggies or spices, this dish adapts beautifully to your needs.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this recipe so special.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each one works together to create a perfectly balanced dish that’s packed with flavor.

Rotini pasta: This corkscrew-shaped pasta is ideal for holding onto the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. While you could use other pasta shapes, rotini ensures every bite is coated in that luscious sauce.
Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef (85% lean is perfect) for a rich, savory base without too much grease. If you prefer, you can swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key to the sauce’s bold flavor. For best results, use 4-5 cloves, but feel free to adjust based on your garlic-loving preferences.
Heavy cream and chicken broth: These create the creamy sauce base. The cream adds richness, while the chicken broth keeps it light enough to not feel overwhelming.
Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese can be too dry and won’t melt as smoothly.
Seasonings: A mix of Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper enhances the dish without overpowering the core flavors.
Optional add-ins: Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and nutrition.

Finally, you’ll need a large skillet and a pot for boiling the pasta. A fine-mesh strainer will also come in handy for draining the rotini.

How To Make Beef And Rotini In Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Making this dish is easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect bowl of comfort food.

Cook the pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Brown the beef: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside on a plate.
Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a tablespoon of olive oil (if needed). Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into a smooth sauce.
Combine everything: Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked rotini, tossing to combine. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Season and serve: Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if desired), and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

This dish comes together in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely dinners.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully!

Refrigerator: Transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Make it vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein.
Add vegetables: Stir in cooked broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
Switch up the protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different twist.
Try a different cheese: Substitute part of the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper flavor.
Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

This beef and rotini in garlic Parmesan sauce is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and savory beef, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. Give it a try tonight – your taste buds will thank you!