Dinner

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery October 31, 2025October 31, 2025

Introduction

This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender rotini pasta simmers in a rich, creamy sauce with savory ground beef and garlic, topped with flavorful Parmesan cheese. It’s simple to make and sure to please the whole family.

The image shows a close-up of a white plate filled with rotini pasta covered evenly with a light beige creamy sauce mixed with small chunks of browned ground meat. On top of the sauce and pasta, there is a small mound of grated pale yellow cheese, sprinkled with finely chopped bright green herbs. The background features a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
12 oz rotini pasta
4 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, then add the uncooked rotini pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 10 to 12 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a boost of vegetables.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and richest taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

How to Serve

The image shows a plate of fusilli pasta with a creamy meat sauce. The pasta is light beige with a spiral texture and forms the base layer. On top, there is a thick layer of ground beef, brown and crumbly in texture, covering much of the pasta. A creamy, light yellow cheese sauce is spread over the beef, adding a smooth and rich layer. In the center, there is a small pile of finely chopped green herbs that add a fresh touch. The food is served on a white plate placed on a white marbled texture surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute rotini with other short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.

Is it necessary to drain the fat after cooking the ground beef?

Draining the excess fat is recommended if you prefer a less greasy dish, but it’s optional. Leaving some fat adds flavor and richness to the sauce.

Charlotte Montgomery