Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce: A Comforting Classic
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. This hearty dish combines tender rotini pasta with seasoned ground beef, all enveloped in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s an ideal choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- Rotini Pasta: 12 ounces (340 grams)
- Ground Beef: 1 pound (450 grams)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Milk: 2 cups (480 milliliters)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup (100 grams), grated
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Colander
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
1. Cook the Rotini Pasta
- Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add 12 ounces of rotini pasta to the boiling water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Drain: Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
2. Prepare the Ground Beef
- Heat Skillet: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter.
- Sauté Garlic: Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Beef: Introduce 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain Excess Fat: If necessary, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Create Roux: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the cooked beef and garlic. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly browned, forming a roux.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add Pasta: Gently fold the cooked rotini pasta into the skillet with the sauce and beef mixture. Stir until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Heat Through: Allow the dish to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat to ensure everything is heated through.
5. Serve
- Garnish: Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy this comforting meal.
Tips for Perfecting Your Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Pasta Cooking: Cooking the rotini al dente ensures it holds its shape and texture when combined with the sauce.
- Cheese Melting: For a smoother sauce, grate the Parmesan cheese finely and ensure it melts completely into the sauce.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency. If too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Aim for al dente texture.
- Burning Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and become bitter. Sauté just until fragrant.
- Lumpy Sauce: To avoid lumps, whisk the flour and milk mixture thoroughly and add the milk gradually.
Serving and Presentation Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper on top adds a finishing touch.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, penne, fusilli, or farfalle are good alternatives that hold the sauce well.
Q: Can I substitute the ground beef?
A: Ground turkey or chicken can be used as leaner alternatives.
Q: Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
A: Substitute the rotini with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.
Conclusion
This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a comforting choice for any meal. Its creamy sauce, savory beef, and perfectly cooked pasta create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
