Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. The combination of tender rotini pasta, hearty ground beef, and a rich, velvety garlic Parmesan sauce creates a dish that satisfies every craving. This recipe balances convenience and flavor, using ingredients you likely already have on hand to create a meal that feels special without demanding much time or effort.

The sauce is made from scratch with garlic, milk, flour, and Parmesan cheese, making it far more flavorful and customizable than store-bought alternatives. The rotini pasta is ideal for catching the creamy sauce in its spirals, while the ground beef adds a satisfying heartiness. A touch of Italian seasoning brings warmth and complexity to the sauce, elevating it to restaurant-quality comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or feeding a crowd, this dish delivers both in taste and ease. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a beautiful and complete meal served straight from the skillet or alongside your favorite sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pan Convenience

Everything cooks together quickly, making it perfect for weeknights and reducing cleanup.

2. Rich, Creamy Sauce

The homemade garlic Parmesan sauce is luscious, cheesy, and full of depth, offering far more flavor than pre-made alternatives.

3. Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will love the comforting combination of pasta, beef, and creamy sauce.

4. Customizable

Easily adapt the recipe with vegetables, different proteins, or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.

5. Affordable and Accessible

Made with simple, everyday ingredients, this recipe is both budget-friendly and easy to find in any pantry.

Ingredients

Rotini pasta
Ground beef
Garlic
All-purpose flour
Milk
Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Salt
Pepper
Olive oil or butter
Fresh parsley

Variations

Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute beef with leaner proteins for a lighter option.
Add Vegetables: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli to boost nutrition.
Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free rotini and a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
Extra Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a bit more cheese for extra richness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the rotini in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the cooked beef and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the beef and garlic mixture. Stir continuously to combine and cook the flour for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Add Milk and Seasoning

Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–6 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 6: Add Parmesan

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to mix until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Cook pasta just to al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when combined with the sauce.
Don’t rush the roux—cooking the flour briefly removes its raw taste.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
For a smoother sauce, whisk continuously when adding milk.
Garnish with extra cheese or parsley for a polished presentation.

How to Serve

Serve as a standalone meal with crusty bread on the side.
Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced dinner.
Add a roasted vegetable side like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
Great with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or any short pasta will work well.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and can be made a day in advance.

3. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Simmer a bit longer or add a touch more flour to reach the desired consistency.

4. What kind of Parmesan works best?

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest and richest flavor.

5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely, it’s creamy, mild, and loved by children.

6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, spinach, mushrooms, or peas are great additions.

7. Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and flour to adapt the recipe easily.

8. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, just double all ingredients and use a larger skillet or pot.

9. What protein alternatives can I use?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well.

10. Can I substitute the milk?

Yes, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can be used, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a simple yet indulgent dish that turns everyday ingredients into a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. With its creamy texture, savory flavor, and flexibility to adapt, it’s a recipe that belongs in your regular rotation. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or prepping meals ahead of time, this dish delivers taste, ease, and satisfaction in every bite.