Homemade Beef & Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Simple and Satisfying

Craving a restaurant-quality pasta dish? This Beef & Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is here to hit the spot! Featuring tender lean beef, perfectly cooked al dente rotini pasta, and a luxuriously creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, this dish is rich in flavor but light on guilt. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it to impress guests, this recipe proves that comfort food can absolutely align with your wellness goals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• WW-Friendly Indulgence: Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying—without the guilt!
• Ready in 30 Minutes: Faster than takeout!
• Family-Approved: Kids and adults alike will beg for seconds.
• Customizable: Swap beef for ground turkey, add veggies, or adjust the spice level.
• Meal Prep Star: Reheats beautifully for lunches all week.

Ingredients

• 8 oz whole-grain rotini pasta (or gluten-free pasta)
• 1 lb 95% lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or cooking spray for 0 points)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1/2 cup low-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
• 1/4 cup light butter (e.g., Land O’Lakes Light)
• 1/3 cup grated reduced-fat Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water, and set aside.

Brown the Beef

1. Heat olive oil (or cooking spray) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it into crumbles. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Cook until browned (5-6 minutes). Drain excess fat and set beef aside.

Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt light butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (do not burn!).
2. Pour in beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Combine & Serve

1. Add cooked pasta and beef to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water 1-2 tbsp at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan (track points).

Nutritional Information

(Per serving: 1.5 cups)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 5g
• WW SmartPoints: 7 (with olive oil) or 8 (with cooking spray and extra cheese).

Tips for Success

1. Boost Veggies: Stir in spinach, zucchini, or roasted cherry tomatoes for added volume and nutrients (0 points).
2. Lighter Option: Use ground turkey breast (99% lean) to save 1-2 SmartPoints.
3. Freeze It: Portion leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
4. Extra Creaminess: Add 2 tbsp fat-free Greek yogurt to the sauce for tang (+0 points).

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers

• Lean Protein: 95% lean beef keeps points low while delivering 25g protein per serving.
• Whole-Grain Pasta: Adds fiber to keep you full longer.
• Light Dairy: Reduced-fat cheese and low-fat milk cut calories without sacrificing creaminess.

Serving Ideas

• With Salad: Pair with a zero-point arugula salad dressed in balsamic vinegar.
• Garlic Bread Side: Serve with a slice of toasted whole-grain bread (track points).
• Meal Prep: Pack with steamed green beans or broccoli for a balanced lunch.

This Beef & Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food upgrade—creamy, savory, and perfectly portioned for your wellness journey. With its tender beef, hearty pasta, and velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce, it’s a meal that feels indulgent yet fits seamlessly into your SmartPoints budget. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is proof that healthy eating can be deliciously satisfying.