Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

If there’s one dish that can turn a hectic weeknight into a warm, comforting evening, it’s Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. This dish wraps hearty flavors in a silky, garlicky sauce that clings perfectly to spiraled rotini pasta. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone pause mid-bite and go, “Wow.”
Imagine tender ground beef simmered until rich and browned, tossed with toothsome rotini and coated in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce kissed with garlic. It’s indulgent without being overwhelming, satisfying without weighing you down, and completely customizable depending on what’s in your pantry.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
It’s simple, it’s fast, and it’s packed with big flavor. This dish takes everyday ingredients and turns them into something that feels like a treat. The rotini holds onto every bit of the sauce, while the garlic and Parmesan give the dish a creamy, savory backbone that never fails. Whether you need a cozy family dinner or a casual date night meal, this one fits the bill.
It also reheats beautifully, making it a go-to for meal prepping or packing lunches that don’t sacrifice taste. And with just one pot and a skillet, clean-up is refreshingly light.
What Kind of Rotini Should I Use?
You can use classic white flour rotini, whole wheat for extra fiber, or even a protein-packed lentil version if you’re aiming for a gluten-free meal. The shape of rotini is key here—its spirals trap all the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce in the grooves, giving you a perfect bite every time. If rotini isn’t available, penne or fusilli will get the job done, but the texture won’t be quite the same.
Ingredients for the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
What makes this dish special is how simple and pantry-friendly the ingredients are. Each component adds its own layer of richness, comfort, or texture. Once everything comes together, you’ll see why this meal feels both indulgent and weeknight-easy.
- Rotini pasta
- Ground beef
- Garlic cloves
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Beef broth
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional)


How To Make the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned and slightly crispy. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Keep the heat low so the garlic doesn’t burn.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and stir to deglaze the pan. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Combine and Toss
Return the beef to the skillet and add the drained rotini. Toss everything together so the pasta is coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy every bite of this flavorful, comforting dish.
Serving and Storing Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This creamy, beefy rotini dish is best served hot off the stove when the sauce is silky and clinging beautifully to the spiraled pasta. It’s a satisfying meal on its own, but you can easily pair it with a side salad or warm bread to round things out.
This recipe comfortably feeds four hungry people, and the leftovers are just as delicious. Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s luscious texture. You can also freeze this dish, but keep in mind that cream sauces can separate slightly when thawed.
What to Serve With Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce?
Garlic Bread
Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Roasted Broccoli
The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli contrasts well with the creamy richness of the pasta.
Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad with romaine, croutons, and a tangy dressing adds freshness and balance.
Sauteed Green Beans
A quick sauté of green beans with lemon zest gives a zippy, clean side that complements the main.
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These offer a caramelized bite and a bit of tang that plays well with the savory beef.
Creamed Spinach
For an extra decadent plate, creamy spinach alongside creamy pasta is pure comfort.
Caprese Salad
Tomato, basil, and mozzarella keep things light and add a burst of freshness.
Grilled Zucchini
Sliced zucchini with a light char adds a smoky note that balances the garlic-Parmesan profile.
Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?
If you loved this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce, here are some other must-try pasta recipes from Luna Meals that bring bold flavor and comforting texture to your plate:
- Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a smoky, creamy combo.
- Creamy Mushroom Ravioli when you’re in the mood for earthy and rich.
- Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta for a spicy, southern kick.
- Flavorful Mediterranean Steak Bowls if you like protein-packed bowls with depth.
- Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta to stay in the creamy Parmesan zone but switch up the meat.
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can always find it when that pasta craving hits.
I’d love to know how your version turned out. Did you add mushrooms or swap in turkey? Maybe you spiced it up with chili flakes? Let me know in the comments how you made it your own.
Discover more homemade meals and cozy weeknight dishes on Luna Meals on Pinterest: Luna Meals Homemade Recipes
Conclusion
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is one of those recipes that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or indulging in a quiet night at home, it’s simple, hearty, and absolutely satisfying. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this is a dish worth adding to your go-to rotation. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!


Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe is a creamy and hearty pasta dish made with savory ground beef, garlic, Parmesan, and rotini noodles. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this comforting and quick pasta meal is a family favorite with irresistible flavor and easy cleanup.
Ingredients
1 pound rotini pasta
1 pound ground beef
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned and slightly crispy. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pan. Stir, then add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and add the drained rotini. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore creaminess.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Use whole wheat or lentil rotini for extra protein and fiber.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
