There's nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce filling your kitchen on a chilly evening. This comforting dish brings together tender beef, perfectly al dente rotini, and a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce that's sure to become a family favorite.

I discovered this recipe during a week when I needed something both hearty and quick. It turned out to be the perfect solution, delivering bold flavors in under an hour. Let me show you how to make this satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your home.
Why You'll Love This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Get ready to fall head over heels for this one-pot wonder. It’s the kind of recipe that fits perfectly into busy schedules without compromising on taste.
First, it’s incredibly easy to make. The recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you’re short on time but craving something hearty.
Second, the combination of tender beef and rich Parmesan sauce is absolutely irresistible. The garlic-infused sauce clings to every piece of rotini, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
Not to mention, it’s kid-approved and family-friendly! Even picky eaters will find something to love in this creamy, cheesy dish. Plus, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your household.
Finally, this recipe is wonderfully versatile. Swap out the protein, add some veggies, or even experiment with different pasta shapes—the possibilities are endless.
Ingredients Notes

The secret to this dish lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Let’s dive into the details to ensure your Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce turns out perfect every time.
- Rotini Pasta: Its spiral shape is ideal for capturing the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. You can substitute with penne or fusilli if needed, but rotini is the star here.
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best, offering just the right amount of flavor without being overly greasy. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must for this recipe. It’s the backbone of the sauce, infusing every bite with its warm, savory aroma.
- Parmesan Cheese: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly into the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: This creates the luxurious, velvety texture of the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half, though the sauce won’t be as rich.
- Seasonings: A mix of Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper brings depth to the dish. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
You’ll also need a large skillet or sauté pan and a pot for boiling the pasta—nothing fancy, just your kitchen basics.
How To Make This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Making this dish is a breeze, and you’ll love how quickly it all comes together. Follow these steps to create a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the rotini until it’s just shy of al dente, as it will finish cooking in the sauce later. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Cook until fully browned, then drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn—it should be golden, not brown.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer before adding the Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy consistency.
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, along with the drained rotini. Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to finish cooking.
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage Options
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), this dish stores beautifully.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:
- Swap the ground beef for Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients and texture.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes—penne, bowties, or even spaghetti work well.
- For a spicier kick, stir in a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the sauce.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! This recipe is a blank canvas, ready for your personal touch.
There you have it—a quick, comforting, and customizable dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Give this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce a try, and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
PrintBeef And Rotini In Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender beef, rotini pasta, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is quick, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked rotini and ground beef into the sauce. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 680 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620 mg
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