Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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Creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor, this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a weeknight dinner dream. Twirls of rotini pasta hold onto the rich, savory beef and that silky garlic-Parmesan sauce in every bite. It’s quick enough for a busy evening but tastes like it simmered all day.

What makes this dish truly irresistible is the combination of texture and flavor: tender ground beef with chewy rotini, all cloaked in a garlicky, cheesy cream sauce that comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s hearty without being heavy, making it the kind of meal everyone wants seconds of.

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What Kind of Rotini Should I Use?

You can use classic semolina rotini, whole wheat for added fiber, or even chickpea rotini for a protein boost. What matters most is that it holds the sauce well, which rotini does perfectly with its spiraled ridges. Just be sure to cook it to al dente—you want that slight chew to balance the creamy sauce.

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Ingredients for the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Rotini Pasta – The spiral shape captures every drop of the garlic-Parmesan sauce beautifully.

Ground Beef – Lean ground beef adds savory depth and heartiness to the dish.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is key to a bold, aromatic base.

Heavy Cream – This gives the sauce its luxurious, velvety texture.

Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for best melt and flavor—salty, nutty, and essential.

Butter – Used to sauté the garlic and give the sauce richness.

Beef Broth – Adds depth and balances the creaminess.

Salt and Black Pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.

Parsley (optional) – A sprinkle of fresh or dried parsley brightens the final dish.

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How To Make the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet with the beef, then stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Simmer for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with a sprinkle of parsley on top and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy immediately while it’s warm and creamy.

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

This dish is best served immediately, fresh from the skillet. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the hot rotini, and the flavors are boldest when warm. For an easy dinner, serve it with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread on the side.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerated, it keeps well for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth before warming in the microwave or on the stove to restore the creaminess.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even farfalle work well in place of rotini. Just make sure the pasta shape can hold onto the sauce.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese as a substitute, but the sauce may be slightly thinner.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep the beef and sauce ahead of time, but cook the pasta just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Is this freezer-friendly?

The dish can be frozen, but the sauce may separate slightly when reheated. Stir well and reheat gently with added cream or milk.

What protein can I use instead of beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage make great alternatives.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes! Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for heat.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this creamy beef and rotini combo, here are more delicious pasta dinners to try next:

• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a cheesy, meaty twist on a Philly favorite.

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli when you’re craving sausage and a comforting creamy garlic sauce.

• One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a no-fuss meal that still delivers big flavor.

• Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli for a creamy vegetarian dinner.

• Red Pepper Rigatoni: A Creamy Bold Pasta Delight if you’re in the mood for something smoky and spicy.

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Tried this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce? Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you tweak the sauce or add a veggie? Maybe you made it extra cheesy?

Your tips and spins on the recipe help everyone cook better – and I love seeing how you make it your own!

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