If you’re looking for the kind of dinner that wraps you up like a cozy blanket after a long day, Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is it. It’s rich, creamy, and just garlicky enough to keep you coming back for seconds. The rotini pasta captures every bit of that cheesy, savory sauce while tender bites of beef add heartiness and depth.

This dish is perfect for those evenings when comfort food is non-negotiable. With just the right blend of Parmesan, garlic, and cream, this pasta manages to feel both indulgent and totally doable on a weeknight. It’s a family favorite that doesn’t need a special occasion to show up at the table.

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

There’s something magical about the combination of pasta, garlic, and cheese. This meal is simple to make yet feels like a treat, with its creamy texture and deeply savory flavor. The rotini’s spiral shape holds onto the sauce perfectly, while the beef brings a meaty richness that turns it from side dish to star of the meal.

You’ll also love how adaptable it is. Add in some spinach for extra greens, mushrooms for an earthy twist, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. It’s also a great option if you’re meal prepping since it reheats beautifully.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Garlic Parmesan Sauce?

Rotini is the gold standard here because its twists and turns trap all that creamy garlic Parmesan sauce so well. But if you don’t have rotini, don’t stress. Penne, fusilli, and farfalle all do a pretty solid job too. The key is to choose a pasta with some texture or ridges so every bite carries the sauce. Avoid smooth spaghetti or linguine for this dish since they don’t grab onto the sauce quite the same way.

Ingredients for the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This dish is all about big flavor from simple ingredients. Each item here brings something essential to the table, from the rich beef to the fragrant garlic and nutty Parmesan. The combination is easy to love and even easier to prepare.

Rotini pasta
Ground beef
Heavy cream
Fresh garlic
Parmesan cheese
Butter
Salt and pepper
Italian seasoning
Beef broth
Olive oil

How To Make the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini until just al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet used for the beef, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for a few minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and reduce heat to low. Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add the drained rotini and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Serve

Plate it up hot and garnish with a little more Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve with crusty bread or a simple salad on the side.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Pasta

This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce serves about four hearty portions, making it ideal for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead. Serve it straight from the skillet while it’s hot and creamy. If you’re hosting or just feeling a little extra, top each portion with a bit of fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.

To store, let the pasta cool to room temperature and transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or cream to bring back the sauce’s silky texture.

What to Serve With Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce?

Garlic Bread with a Crunch

The ultimate partner for any creamy pasta is a slice (or two) of crusty garlic bread. The buttery, crispy edges are perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Simple Caesar Salad

A chilled Caesar salad brings just enough crunch and tang to cut through the richness of the Parmesan sauce.

Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus

A sheet pan of roasted green veggies not only adds color to your plate but brings some welcome freshness too.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

For a slightly sweet contrast, Brussels sprouts roasted with balsamic glaze work beautifully.

Cherry Tomato Cucumber Salad

This cool, crisp salad lightens up the plate with every bite.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy and savory, mushrooms enhance the meaty flavors in the pasta and add a gourmet flair.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

If you’re feeding a crowd or just super hungry, serve a scoop of these herby, cheesy potatoes alongside.

A Glass of Red Wine

Okay, it’s not a dish, but a glass of dry red wine like Cabernet or Merlot is the perfect grown-up pairing for this cozy meal.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Comfort Twist?

If this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce won your heart, you’re in for a treat with these other hearty favorites from Mia Plates:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a nostalgic flavor that never gets old.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you need that skillet magic with minimal cleanup.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta that leans into luscious Alfredo flavor.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a cheesy twist with a Philly soul.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta that brings bold, smoky flair in every bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it any time you need a cozy, comforting pasta fix.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try adding mushrooms or give it a little heat with red pepper flakes?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Don’t be shy—share your tips or questions below so we can all cook better together.

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals and more weeknight inspiration on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to meal!