Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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Creamy, savory, and satisfying—this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the perfect weeknight dinner when comfort food is calling your name. Picture tender spirals of rotini pasta soaking up a velvety parmesan cream sauce, swirled with the deep, meaty richness of seasoned ground beef. Every bite is hearty and garlicky with a cheesy, herby finish that feels like a warm hug on your taste buds.

It’s a dish that comes together quickly but tastes like it simmered all day. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or pasta lovers, this one-pan wonder hits all the right notes. Serve it straight from the skillet or dress it up with a sprinkle of parsley and extra parmesan—either way, this meal makes you look like a kitchen rockstar without the stress.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this creamy dream of a meal, take a moment to prep your tools. Here’s what you’ll want to have ready:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where all the magic happens. A wide, deep pan allows the sauce and pasta to blend beautifully without spilling over.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Gentle on your cookware and perfect for stirring without scratching.
• Medium Pot: For boiling the rotini until al dente. A colander will come in handy for draining too.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: To make sure your garlic, cream, and parmesan are perfectly portioned.
• Microplane or Cheese Grater: Freshly grated parmesan takes this dish to the next level, both in texture and flavor.

With these kitchen allies by your side, you’re all set to make a meal that balances richness, ease, and elegance.

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Ingredients for the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Each ingredient in this dish plays a delicious role:

• Rotini Pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor.
• Ground Beef: Adds rich, meaty depth to the dish and pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce.
• Garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with an aromatic punch that defines this recipe.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the velvety base for the parmesan sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated): Offers a sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• Butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the garlic sauce.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances and balances all the other flavors.
• Italian Seasoning: Provides a gentle blend of herbs that marry beautifully with the creamy components.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness as a garnish.

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How To Make the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Push the beef to one side and melt butter on the other. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

Pour in the heavy cream, then stir to combine with the garlic and beef. Let it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Parmesan

Slowly sprinkle in freshly grated parmesan while stirring. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Season and Combine

Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Fold in the cooked rotini pasta and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.

Step 7: Serve with Flair

Plate the pasta and sprinkle with extra parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy comfort.

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

Serve this pasta straight from the skillet while it’s warm and creamy. It’s perfect on its own, but a slice of crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad can really round out the meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or an extra shaving of parmesan adds a lovely finishing touch.

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), let the dish cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta can I substitute for rotini?

You can use penne, fusilli, or even farfalle—anything with texture to hold the sauce well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just prepare the full dish and refrigerate. Reheat with a touch of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

For a lighter take, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use ground turkey or chicken.

Can I freeze this pasta dish?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it in a sealed container. Just be aware the cream sauce may separate slightly upon reheating.

How can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce for a little heat.

What cheese can I use instead of parmesan?

Romano or Asiago both work well and have similarly sharp, savory profiles.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce, these other savory meals from Life With Olivia will be right up your alley:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for a poultry version of this creamy classic.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole if you’re craving something baked and cheesy.
• Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce for a silky, rich variation on beef pasta.
• Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini for a sweet-and-savory twist.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta to sneak some greens into your creamy dish.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it anytime you need a cozy meal.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use fresh garlic or pre-minced? Try a different cheese? I’d love to hear your spin!

💬 Got questions or tips of your own? Let’s swap notes and help each other make dinnertime easier and tastier.

You can also find daily recipes and more inspiration on my Pinterest here: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

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