If you’re on the hunt for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in a relatively short time, then you’re in for a treat with this Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. This delightful dish combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked rotini, and a luxuriously creamy garlic parmesan sauce that is sure to elevate your dinner experience. Not only is it an absolute crowd-pleaser, but it also offers a comforting mix of flavors that remind you of hearty family meals, perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
This recipe is particularly appealing because it brings together. The one-pot cooking method means less time spent in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal, which is a boon for anyone juggling a packed schedule. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent, yet it can be prepared in just 30 minutes! The garlic parmesan sauce wraps around each rotini, giving you a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the seasoned beef. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting a small gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- This dish is a true comfort food that combines savory flavors with creamy texture, delivering satisfaction in every bite.
- It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.
- Cooking everything in one pan reduces cleanup time, making your cooking experience more enjoyable.
- Easy to customize with different vegetables or proteins, allowing for a personalized touch.
- The creamy garlic parmesan sauce is irresistible and can be used in other pasta dishes as well!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into cooking Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by assembling all the ingredients on your countertop for easy access. You’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta and a spacious skillet to cook the beef and sauce. A whisk is crucial for creating a smooth roux and mixing the sauce, while a wooden spoon or spatula will help with combining the ingredients effectively.
Make sure you have measuring cups and spoons handy for the ingredients, as accurate measurements will yield the best results. Ensure your kitchen is clean and that your utensils are ready to avoid any last-minute sprints for missing items. This not only streamlines your cooking process but also makes for a more enjoyable and organized experience.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk warm
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Extra parmesan for garnish
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rotini
Begin by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, carefully add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes but keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside in a colander. Don’t rinse it, as this will wash away the starch that helps the sauce adhere.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned, approximately 6-8 minutes. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the beef is fully cooked and the onion is soft and translucent, be sure to drain any excess grease from the skillet, as this will help maintain the texture and flavor of your sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the skillet’s heat to medium, then add the minced garlic to the cooked beef. Sauté it for about 30 seconds. This brief cooking time will release the garlic’s aromatic oils without burning it, ensuring a pleasant flavor in the dish.
Step 4: Create the Roux
Next, push the beef mixture to one side of the skillet. In the cleared section, add the butter and let it melt completely. As the butter melts, whisk in the flour until a smooth roux forms. Allow this mixture to cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This roux will provide thickening power for your sauce.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
Gradually pour the warm milk and heavy cream into the roux while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon and has a creamy consistency.
Step 6: Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Mix everything thoroughly until the cheese has melted completely, leaving you with a smooth garlic parmesan sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can always add a splash more milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Finally, add the cooked rotini pasta into the skillet, stirring gently to combine everything well. Ensure that each piece of pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Allow the dish to heat through for a minute or two.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
To serve, plate the pasta in bowls and garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or a sprinkle of dried herbs. This not only adds color but also enhances the presentation of your delicious dish.
Variations
- Protein: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add in some spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Spice things up with some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Cooking Notes
- Feel free to adjust the garlic amount according to your taste—garlic lovers can add more for extra flavor!
- Don’t rush the thickening process of the sauce; this is key for a rich and creamy result.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up that delicious sauce.
Tips
- For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and cook the pasta right before serving to ensure everything is hot and flavorful.
What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have parmesan, Pecorino Romano or even a blend of shredded Italian cheeses can work well in this recipe.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Gluten-free rotini works great for this dish if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
How can I add more veggies to this recipe?
Add spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers along with the ground beef to infuse more nutrients and flavors into the dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a recipe that should definitely find a place in your weekly dinner rotation. With its rich flavors, creamy sauce, and simple preparation methods, it’s an ideal option for both busy weeknights and cozy family gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it further with your favorite vegetables or spice levels. We hope you’ll enjoy making this dish as much as your family will enjoy eating it. Be sure to leave a comment below telling us how it turned out for you or any creative variations you tried!
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Delicious Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk warm
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Extra parmesan for garnish
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, carefully add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes but keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside in a colander. Don’t rinse it, as this will wash away the starch that helps the sauce adhere.
- In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned, approximately 6-8 minutes. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the beef is fully cooked and the onion is soft and translucent, be sure to drain any excess grease from the skillet, as this will help maintain the texture and flavor of your sauce.
- Lower the skillet’s heat to medium, then add the minced garlic to the cooked beef. Sauté it for about 30 seconds. This brief cooking time will release the garlic’s aromatic oils without burning it, ensuring a pleasant flavor in the dish.
- Next, push the beef mixture to one side of the skillet. In the cleared section, add the butter and let it melt completely. As the butter melts, whisk in the flour until a smooth roux forms. Allow this mixture to cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This roux will provide thickening power for your sauce.
- Gradually pour the warm milk and heavy cream into the roux while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon and has a creamy consistency.
- Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Mix everything thoroughly until the cheese has melted completely, leaving you with a smooth garlic parmesan sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can always add a splash more milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Finally, add the cooked rotini pasta into the skillet, stirring gently to combine everything well. Ensure that each piece of pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Allow the dish to heat through for a minute or two.
- To serve, plate the pasta in bowls and garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or a sprinkle of dried herbs. This not only adds color but also enhances the presentation of your delicious dish.
Notes
For adjusting spice levels, feel free to add more or less red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 25 g