There’s something magical about the combination of creamy sauce, savory beef, and perfectly cooked pasta.
Whenever I’m craving a meal that feels like a warm hug, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Beef Pasta always delivers.
It’s rich, filling, and surprisingly easy to make—all in under 30 minutes!
Why I Love This Recipe
It’s ultra-creamy and comforting.
Loaded with flavor from garlic, beef, and Parmesan.
Uses pantry staples and everyday ingredients.
Great for weeknights or a casual dinner with friends.
One skillet + one pot = fewer dishes to clean!
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Rotini pasta – Spiral shape that soaks up every drop of sauce.
Ground beef – Hearty and rich, perfect with the creamy base.
Olive oil – Helps brown the beef and carry flavor.
Garlic – Freshly minced for that irresistible aroma.
Heavy cream – The silky base of the sauce.
Parmesan cheese – Nutty, salty, and melty.
Italian seasoning – Boosts every bite with herbal depth.
Parsley – Optional, but adds a fresh finishing touch.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t overcook the pasta—it should be al dente.
Save some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting.
Let the garlic cook just until fragrant to avoid burning.
Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if you like heat.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Beef Pasta
Step 1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook rotini according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
Step 3. Add Garlic and Seasoning
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
Step 4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Stir everything together until the beef is fully coated.
Step 5. Melt the Cheese
Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it melts and the sauce turns smooth and creamy.
Step 6. Toss with Pasta
Add the cooked rotini into the skillet and gently toss until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy beef sauce.
Step 7. Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta while hot.
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and more Parmesan, if desired.
What to Serve It With
Garlic bread or crusty baguette
A fresh Caesar or garden salad
Steamed green beans or broccoli
A crisp glass of white wine or lemon iced tea
Variations / Substitutions
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
Use penne or fusilli if you don’t have rotini.
Add spinach or mushrooms for more vegetables.
Mix in a splash of white wine for extra depth.
Try Asiago or Romano cheese for a different flavor twist.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or milk.
Avoid freezing as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this without heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
Is fresh Parmesan necessary?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives more flavor—pre-shredded might not blend as smoothly.
How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?
Add a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely—just add chili flakes or diced jalapeño while cooking the beef.
What’s the best pasta shape to substitute for rotini?
Penne, fusilli, or even bow tie pasta all work great.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use a larger skillet and pot.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very! It’s creamy, cheesy, and not spicy at all—kids usually love it.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something warm, rich, and deeply satisfying, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Beef Pasta is exactly what you need.
It’s weeknight easy, weekend cozy, and a guaranteed hit whether you’re serving one or six.
It might just become your go-to pasta dish!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Beef Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rotini pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and sauté until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Pour in heavy cream and let it gently simmer.
- Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/creamy-garlic-parmesan-beef-pasta/
Notes
- You can swap rotini with penne, fusilli, or farfalle.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and creaminess.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
