Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Comfort food gets a gourmet twist in this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. Tender bites of ground beef mingle with perfectly cooked rotini pasta, all wrapped in a luscious, garlicky parmesan cream sauce. It’s a cozy, hearty dish that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.
This is the kind of meal that comes together quickly on a weeknight but still impresses anyone at the table. The garlic and parmesan bring robust flavor, while the rotini catches every drop of the creamy sauce. It’s rustic, it’s satisfying, and it just might become your next pasta night staple.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
If you’re after a dinner that tastes like a warm hug, this one delivers. The beef gives it richness and heartiness, while the garlic parmesan sauce adds just the right creamy depth without being too heavy. Rotini is the perfect noodle to catch every creamy bite, making this a balanced and flavorful dish that satisfies both comfort food cravings and picky eaters.
Whether you’re feeding your family or whipping up a casual dinner for guests, this recipe nails the sweet spot between easy and impressive. Plus, it’s a one-pan situation for most of the prep—less cleanup, more time to enjoy.
What Kind of Rotini Should I Use?
Classic semolina rotini is perfect for this dish because it holds up well and its twists are ideal for catching the rich sauce. If you’re looking to change it up, try whole wheat rotini for a nuttier flavor, or gluten-free versions if dietary needs call for it. Just be sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to soak up some of the sauce after mixing.
Ingredients for the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This comforting dish comes together with simple pantry staples and a few key ingredients that deliver big on flavor. Each one plays an important role in building the creamy, garlicky goodness that makes this pasta unforgettable.
- Ground beef
- Rotini pasta
- Garlic cloves
- Butter
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Parsley


How To Make the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden, about one minute. This step creates the flavor base for the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine it with the garlic and butter. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper, and continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the sauce, then add the cooked rotini. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the garlic parmesan sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a bright, herby finish. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy bite.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
One common misstep is overcooking the rotini. Since it will continue to absorb sauce once mixed, keeping it slightly under al dente ensures it won’t turn mushy. Another mistake is rushing the sauce. Give the garlic time to mellow and the cream to thicken—patience here builds the best flavor. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning; parmesan can be salty, so always season after adding cheese.
How to Serve and Store This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This dish is best served hot right after it’s tossed together. The sauce clings beautifully to the rotini while it’s fresh and creamy. It can easily feed 4 to 6 people, making it great for family dinners.
For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
What to Serve With Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce?
Garlic Bread
Crispy, buttery garlic bread makes a perfect side to scoop up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Simple Caesar Salad
The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Broccoli
Add some greens and a bit of charred texture to contrast the creamy dish.
Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Sweet and tangy, these add a punch of color and bright flavor.
Steamed Green Beans
Lightly seasoned green beans are a simple and healthy addition.
Caprese Salad
Tomato, basil, and mozzarella offer a refreshing bite alongside the pasta.
Crusty Bread Rolls
If garlic bread feels too rich, warm rolls are a lovely neutral option.
Sauteed Spinach with Lemon
This adds a zesty, light contrast to the creamy beef and pasta.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you can’t get enough of creamy pasta meals, here are some other comforting favorites worth trying:
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Delight
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts
• Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach
• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
• One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use fresh parsley or dried? Maybe swapped the rotini for penne?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better every night.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!
Conclusion
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce isn’t just another pasta dish—it’s an easy, flavor-packed dinner that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. The mix of savory beef, perfectly textured pasta, and a creamy garlic parmesan sauce creates a dish you’ll be proud to serve again and again. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or need something fuss-free and delicious, this is one to bookmark.
Print
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Description
This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe is a comforting, creamy pasta dinner packed with flavor. Made with tender ground beef, al dente rotini, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce, it’s perfect for weeknight meals. Learn how to make it, what to serve with it, and how to store leftovers for best results.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
12 ounces rotini pasta
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess grease and set beef aside.
2. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant and golden, about one minute.
3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly, and simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Cook rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
6. Return cooked beef to the sauce, add drained rotini, and toss to coat everything evenly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use al dente pasta to avoid sogginess.
Add extra cream when reheating to maintain creaminess.
Fresh garlic and parmesan make a big flavor difference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg