Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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Creamy, savory, and rich in comforting flavors, Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a dish that brings hearty satisfaction to the table with minimal effort. The juicy, browned beef mingles with perfectly cooked rotini, all swirled in a luxuriously creamy garlic parmesan sauce that clings to each spiral of pasta. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies both cravings and convenience, perfect for busy weeknights or indulgent weekends.

What makes this dish truly shine is the contrast of textures and flavors—the tender bite of ground beef, the smooth silkiness of the cheese sauce, and the warm undertone of garlic. It’s a one-pan kind of magic that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, but it’s also bold enough to stand alone as a complete meal.

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Ingredients for Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended for richness)
• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
• Chopped parsley or chives, for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions, usually about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water in case you want to thin the sauce later.

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Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and drain excess fat, leaving about a tablespoon in the pan for flavor.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same pan, add the olive oil or butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant (do not brown the garlic). Add the onion powder and optional red pepper flakes. Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

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Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the pan, along with the drained rotini pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce and the beef is evenly distributed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy the creamy, garlicky richness of your homemade comfort food!

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Storage Instructions

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To store leftover Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• Refrigerator: Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, but note that creamy sauces may separate slightly when thawed.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 540mg
  Note: Values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or shells work great. The goal is a shape that holds onto the sauce.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded parmesan?

You can, but freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly and enhances the sauce’s flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, though the sauce may be thinner.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare it fully, cool it down, and refrigerate. Reheat gently with a bit of added liquid before serving.

How do I make it spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even a bit of cayenne to the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this?

Yes, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas are great additions that blend well with the creamy sauce.

Is ground turkey a good substitute for beef?

Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner alternative with slightly different flavor.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Simply substitute the rotini with your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth and cheese are gluten-free too.

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