Beef And Rotini In Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce filling your kitchen. This rich and creamy dish is a family favorite, pairing tender ground beef with perfectly cooked rotini pasta, all coated in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce. It's a dinner that feels indulgent but is surprisingly quick and easy to whip up.

this Recipe

I first tried a version of this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty yet simple. After a few tweaks, it became the go-to meal for busy weeknights and casual get-togethers. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your next must-try dinner!

Why You'll Love This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that's equal parts satisfying and easy to make. Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is about to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

First off, this dish is a total time-saver. With minimal prep and a single skillet for the sauce, you can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes, leaving you more time to relax with your family.

It’s a budget-friendly meal, too! Ground beef and rotini pasta are affordable staples, and the creamy garlic parmesan sauce uses pantry basics like butter, flour, and milk to create something truly special without breaking the bank.

The flavors are universally loved. From the savory notes of the garlic to the cheesy richness of the parmesan, even picky eaters will clean their plates—and maybe even ask for seconds!

Finally, the versatility of this recipe makes it perfect for customizing. Swap out the beef for ground turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms to make it your own. The possibilities are endless, ensuring you'll never get bored.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Here’s a closer look at the key players:

• Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. Leaner beef works too, but you may need a bit of extra olive oil to keep things moist.
• Rotini Pasta: The spiral shape of rotini is perfect for catching the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Penne or fusilli can also work if you don’t have rotini on hand.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the bold, aromatic flavor that drives this dish. Mince it finely to ensure even distribution throughout the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and a creamy texture that blends beautifully into the sauce.
• Milk and Chicken Broth: These two work together to create a light yet creamy base for the sauce. Whole milk gives the richest result, but 2% works in a pinch.
• Butter and Flour: These two ingredients form a quick roux that thickens the sauce, creating that signature creamy consistency.

No special equipment is needed beyond a large pot for the pasta and a skillet for the sauce, making cleanup a breeze!

How To Make This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Crafting this comforting dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps for a no-fuss dinner that delivers big on flavor.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water for the rotini pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, aiming for al dente. Once done, drain it and set aside, reserving about a cup of the pasta water for later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate.

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Sprinkle in flour and whisk for another minute to form a roux.

Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and smooth.

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Add the drained rotini, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will help loosen it to the perfect consistency.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. From start to finish, this dish takes just about 30 minutes!

Storage Options

Leftovers of Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce are just as delicious the next day. Here's how to store them properly:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.
• Freezing: While the sauce is cream-based and can sometimes separate upon thawing, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the dish on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Meat Swap: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in cooked spinach, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrients and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Upgrade: Experiment with other cheeses like pecorino romano or a touch of cream cheese for a unique twist on the sauce.

No matter how you choose to make it, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy! Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own.

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