Name: Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 1 lb beef (sirloin, stew meat, or ground beef); 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

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Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a rich, hearty dish I love making when I want something comforting and full of flavor. Tender pieces of beef are nestled in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce and tossed with rotini pasta, which holds onto every bit of the savory goodness. It’s a satisfying one-pan meal that feels indulgent but is easy enough for any weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish combines the robust flavor of seasoned beef with the creaminess of a garlic Parmesan sauce. The rotini pasta is perfect for holding onto the sauce, making every bite deeply satisfying. It’s a complete meal in one skillet, which means fewer dishes and less time spent cleaning. Plus, it’s versatile enough to add veggies or change up the protein if I want something a little different. This one always gets rave reviews at the table.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rotini pasta
Beef (sirloin, stew meat, or ground beef)
Olive oil or butter
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Heavy cream
Beef broth
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper
Italian seasoning
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I cook the rotini in salted water until al dente, then drain and set it aside.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil and cook the beef until browned and cooked through. I season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
I remove the beef and sauté the chopped onion and garlic in the same pan until soft and fragrant.
I add beef broth and heavy cream, then let it simmer to reduce slightly.
I stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue to simmer until the sauce thickens to my liking.
I return the beef to the pan, then toss in the cooked rotini. I mix everything together until the pasta is well-coated and heated through.
I garnish with fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes roughly 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s fast enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to serve to guests.

Variations

I sometimes use ground beef instead of chunks for a quicker version.
For extra veggies, I add spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli.
I swap the beef with grilled chicken or Italian sausage when I want to change things up.
I use penne or fusilli in place of rotini — any pasta that grabs the sauce will work.
A splash of white wine in the sauce gives it a little extra depth.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. I avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the beef tender and the pasta from becoming too soft. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream sauce, so I prefer making it fresh or in small batches.

FAQs

What cut of beef works best for this recipe?

I like using tender cuts like sirloin or thinly sliced steak for quicker cooking. Ground beef also works great when I want to speed things up even more.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. I sometimes use whole milk or add a little cream cheese to help thicken it up.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

I let it simmer a bit longer, or I stir in more Parmesan cheese. A spoonful of cream cheese also works if I want a richer, thicker sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

Not unless I add red pepper flakes. I usually keep it mild but add a touch of spice when I want a little heat.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I can prep the beef and sauce ahead, then cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is one of my favorite comfort meals — creamy, savory, and satisfying in every way. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, it’s a go-to recipe I make again and again. Whether I’m cooking for family or treating myself to something special, this dish always delivers warmth and flavor in every bite.