Description
Indulge in this creamy, savory dish of beef and rotini pasta smothered in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s quick, comforting, and full of flavor—perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy dinner with family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) rotini pasta
- 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Beef:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk (or half-and-half)
- ½ cup (50g) Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly to form a smooth roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the roux turns a light golden color.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and additional salt and pepper to taste. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Return the cooked beef mixture to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained rotini pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: It melts better and results in a creamier sauce.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooked pasta holds up better in the sauce.
- Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers are great additions for more flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and spices to your liking.
- Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American