Beef And Rotini In Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

There's nothing quite like a hearty bowl of beef and rotini in garlic Parmesan sauce to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. This dish is packed with tender beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I needed something warm, filling, and easy to throw together. It quickly became a family favorite, thanks to its creamy texture and bold flavors. Plus, it's a one-pan wonder that saves on cleanup—what's not to love?

Why You'll Love This Beef And Rotini In Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Get ready to fall in love with this creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying pasta dish. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or looking for a meal to impress, this recipe delivers every time.

First off, it's quick and easy. You only need about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it the perfect go-to meal when time is short but you still want something homemade and delicious.

Secondly, it's packed with flavor. The combination of savory beef, aromatic garlic, and sharp Parmesan cheese creates a sauce that's rich, creamy, and absolutely irresistible.

Another reason to love this dish? It's budget-friendly. Using simple pantry staples and affordable cuts of beef, you can create a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.

Lastly, it's versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your tastes—use chicken instead of beef, add veggies for extra nutrition, or spice it up with red pepper flakes.

With all these benefits, it's no wonder this pasta is a repeat favorite in so many kitchens!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making this dish truly special.

Rotini pasta is ideal because its spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly. However, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even farfalle if needed.

For the beef, I recommend using sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain. These cuts cook quickly and stay tender, but you can also use ground beef for a more budget-friendly option.

The garlic Parmesan sauce is the star of the dish. Made with butter, fresh garlic, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese, it creates a luxuriously creamy coating for the pasta. If you prefer a lighter option, you can swap half-and-half for the heavy cream.

A touch of beef broth adds extra depth to the sauce, enhancing the meaty flavor of the dish. If you don’t have beef broth, chicken or vegetable broth will work in a pinch.

Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley and black pepper at the end adds a pop of color and a final layer of seasoning.

If you have a large skillet or sauté pan, it will make the cooking process much smoother, allowing the beef to brown evenly and the sauce to come together beautifully.

How To Make This Beef And Rotini In Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This one-pan pasta recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. Let’s break it down!

Start by cooking the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then sear the beef slices in batches. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, just until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it!

Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Return the cooked beef to the skillet, along with the drained rotini. Toss everything together, ensuring each piece of pasta is coated in the garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

Finish with a generous sprinkle of black pepper, fresh parsley, and extra Parmesan for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), this dish stores beautifully for future meals.

To store in the refrigerator, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but a splash of milk or broth when reheating will bring it back to life.

For freezing, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that creamy sauces can sometimes separate upon reheating, so stirring well while warming helps.

When reheating, warm it over medium-low heat on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Switch the protein – Instead of beef, try chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
• Go green – Toss in spinach, broccoli, or peas to add extra veggies and nutrition to the dish.
• Use a different cheese – While Parmesan is classic, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a blend of mozzarella and Gouda for a different twist.
• Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta – If you're looking for a healthier option, swap regular rotini for whole wheat pasta or a gluten-free alternative.

No matter how you customize it, this beef and rotini in garlic Parmesan sauce is bound to be a hit. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your favorite version!

This creamy, garlicky pasta dish is pure comfort in a bowl, and I can't wait for you to try it. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, it's sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy! 🍽️

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