Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you're craving a dish that offers both delicious flavors and ease of preparation, this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is exactly what you need. The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the hearty beef and pasta, creating a rich, comforting meal. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, which means fewer dishes to clean up afterward!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 12 oz rotini pasta

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoon olive oil or butter

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.

2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, then add uncooked rotini pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender (about 10-12 minutes).

4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.

5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for ground mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version of this dish.

2. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

3. Cheese Variations: You can mix Parmesan with other cheeses such as mozzarella or Romano for different flavor profiles.

4. Pasta Variety: Feel free to substitute rotini with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter version.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately, store them in the fridge, and combine them when ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the beef and rotini mixture. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

To make the sauce even creamier, you can add more heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese. Stir in some extra Parmesan cheese as well for an extra rich flavor.

What can I serve this with?

This dish is perfect on its own, but it pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape.

How do I make the sauce less thick?

If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little extra beef broth, milk, or even water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the beef.

How do I avoid the pasta sticking together?

Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to prevent it from sticking. Adding enough liquid and cooking it on low heat will also help the pasta cook evenly without clumping together.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free as it contains pasta made from wheat. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a delightful, comforting dish that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful, satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. With its rich, creamy sauce and hearty pasta, this recipe will surely become a go-to in your meal rotation!