Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

eef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food dish, combining tender, flavorful ground beef, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This hearty and satisfying recipe is ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep. Infused with rich, garlicky flavor and finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its simple preparation and gourmet appeal, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between practicality and indulgence, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The luscious garlic Parmesan sauce clings beautifully to the rotini pasta.
• Savory Beef: Ground beef adds heartiness and rich flavor, making it a satisfying meal.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup, as everything comes together in one pot.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauce and pasta make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• Customizable: Easily adapted with additional vegetables, herbs, or protein options.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: About 1½ cups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 520
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Beef:

• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• ½ cup chicken or beef broth
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• **Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes and Additions:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Extra Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
• Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef

1. Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
2. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine and Cook

1. Return the cooked beef mixture to the skillet with the sauce, stirring to combine. Add the cooked rotini pasta and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.
2. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

• Rotini Pasta: The corkscrew shape holds onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
• Ground Beef: Adds heartiness and richness to the dish. Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for variation.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and provides nutty, salty flavor to the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with robust flavor, while garlic powder enhances the creaminess.
• Nutmeg: Optional but adds subtle warmth and depth to the sauce.

Technique Tips

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Pasta will continue cooking slightly in the sauce, so don’t overcook it in the boiling water.
• Grate Cheese Fresh: Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Use freshly grated cheese for the best results.
• Thicken the Sauce Slowly: Allow the roux and milk mixture to simmer gently to create a smooth, thick sauce without lumps.
• Layer the Flavors: Sautéing garlic and onion with the beef enhances the dish’s depth and aroma.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Baked Pasta: Transfer the combined pasta and sauce to a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
• One-Pot Pasta: Cook the pasta directly in the sauce by adding more broth and milk, simplifying the cooking process.
• Individual Portions: Serve in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Vegetable Addition: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers to elevate the dish further.

Additional Tips for Success

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Saltiness can vary depending on the broth and cheese, so taste as you go.
• Don’t Let the Sauce Boil: High heat can cause the sauce to separate; keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Save Some Pasta Water: The starchy water helps loosen the sauce and ensures it clings well to the pasta.
• Double the Recipe: This dish is a hit with larger groups, and leftovers taste just as delicious the next day.Recipe Variations

• Spicy Beef Pasta: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap rotini with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella or Gruyère to the sauce for extra cheesiness.
• Herbed Delight: Stir in fresh basil, thyme, or oregano for an herbaceous touch.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
• Freezing: Freeze the pasta and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein.
• Lean Protein: Substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content.
• Lighten the Sauce: Replace whole milk with unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate broccoli, zucchini, or kale for extra vitamins and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a wholesome meal.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring in a large casserole dish, keeping it warm with a portable heat source.
• Romantic Dinner: Pair with a glass of red wine and roasted vegetables for an elegant date-night meal.
• Casual Gatherings: Offer alongside other pasta dishes like mac and cheese or lasagna for a pasta bar.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: Provides enough space for cooking the beef and combining the sauce with the pasta.
• Cheese Grater: Essential for grating fresh Parmesan cheese.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for breaking up ground beef and stirring the sauce.
• Whisk: Prevents lumps while making the roux for the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well and hold the sauce beautifully.

Q2: How do I make the dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for the roux.

Q3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the pasta and sauce separately. Combine and reheat gently before serving.

Q4: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

Q5: Can I make the sauce without flour?
Yes, thicken the sauce with cornstarch (1 tablespoon mixed with 2 tablespoons water) instead of a roux.

Q6: Can I substitute Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great alternatives for similar flavor.

Q7: How can I make it spicier?
Increase paprika or add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for extra heat.

Q8: Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a more robust flavor, but pre-shredded cheese can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the perfect combination of hearty, savory, and creamy flavors, making it a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. From its tender pasta and rich sauce to its customizable nature, this recipe offers something for everyone. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this comforting pasta dish is guaranteed to delight. Pair it with a fresh salad, warm bread, and your favorite wine for a meal that feels both indulgent and effortless.

Print