Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults due to its creamy, savory flavors.
Versatile: Easily customizable with different proteins or added vegetables.
Comfort Food: The creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce provides a rich and satisfying taste.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients commonly found in your

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces rotini pasta
1 pound ground beef
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Create the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the garlic and stir to combine. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine Pasta and Beef: Add the cooked beef and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms as a meat substitute.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Different Pasta: Use penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer if rotini is not available.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.Recipes Smile

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta and beef separately, then combine them when ready to serve. Store components separately in the refrigerator.Recipes Smile

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze the entire dish as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked beef and sauce separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.Recipes Smile

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are good substitutes for Parmesan cheese, offering a similar texture and flavor.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the sauce, penne, fusilli, or farfalle are also excellent choices.Recipes Smile

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes or add a bit more flour during the cooking process.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, you can use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives to make a dairy-free version of this dish.

Can I add herbs to this recipe?

Certainly! Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano can enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

What side dishes pair well with this meal?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish nicely.Grammy Recipes

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

After draining, toss the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking if you’re not combining it with the sauce immediately.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

While fresh garlic provides the best flavor, pre-minced garlic can be used for convenience.

Conclusion

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a delicious, comforting meal that’s quick to prepare and sure to please. With its rich, creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy experimenting with different variations to make it your own!