If you’re looking for a quick and comforting dinner that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant, this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is exactly what you need. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a creamy, savory pasta dish that blends simple pantry staples into something truly special.
The magic starts with garlic sizzling in olive oil—one of those scents that instantly warms the whole kitchen and reminds me of home. Paired with tender ground beef, hearty rotini pasta, and a silky garlic parmesan sauce, this meal is both weeknight-friendly and dinner-party-worthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Dinner is ready in just 30 minutes.
- Everyday Ingredients: Uses staples you probably already have in your pantry.
- Family-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy flavors kids and adults love.
- Customizable: Add veggies or swap in your favorite protein.
- Comforting & Satisfying: Perfect balance of hearty pasta and rich sauce.
This pasta is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl, the kind that brings everyone running to the dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Rotini pasta – The spiral shape holds onto all that creamy garlic parmesan sauce.
- Ground beef – I use 80/20 for the best flavor and texture.
- Olive oil – For sautéing and extra richness.
- Fresh garlic – Nothing beats the aroma of freshly minced cloves.
- Heavy cream – Creates the luxurious, velvety sauce.
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated melts beautifully for that nutty, salty flavor.
- Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that ties it all together.
- Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh parsley – Adds brightness and a pop of color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside. - Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned. - Add Garlic & Seasoning
Stir in minced garlic and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. - Make the Sauce
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. - Combine with Pasta
Toss in the cooked rotini until fully coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. - Serve & Garnish
Plate immediately and top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Caesar salad – A crisp, tangy contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Roasted broccoli or green beans – Adds balance and nutrition.
- Crusty Italian bread – Because no drop of sauce should go to waste!
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as cream sauces don’t freeze well.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- Don’t overcook the garlic—burnt garlic will make the dish bitter.
- Add cheese gradually off the heat to prevent clumping.
- Save pasta water—it’s the best way to adjust sauce consistency.
FAQs
How many calories are in this dish?
About 550 calories per serving (based on 4 servings).
Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Ground turkey, Italian sausage, or diced chicken all work well.
What if my sauce gets too thick?
Stir in a splash of pasta water or cream until you reach the perfect consistency.
Is it healthy enough for regular meals?
It’s rich, but when paired with a salad or vegetables, it balances nicely for a satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the definition of comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, yet simple enough for a busy weeknight. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation.