Creamy Parmesan Rotini

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy pasta to make you feel at home, and today, I’m thrilled to share my Creamy Parmesan Rotini recipe with you. This dish is rich, indulgent, and perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. With its luscious sauce and the delightful curls of rotini, it’s a recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

What makes this Creamy Parmesan Rotini unique? It’s the smooth blend of garlic, parmesan, and cream that creates a sauce so velvety that you might just want to take a swim in it. The rotini’s twists and turns hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is a flavor explosion. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it a fantastic weeknight meal option.

Ingredients

• Rotini pasta – 1 pound
• Unsalted butter – 4 tablespoons
• Minced garlic – 4 cloves
• Heavy cream – 2 cups
• Grated Parmesan cheese – 1 cup (plus more for serving)
• Salt – to taste
• Black pepper – to taste
• Chopped parsley – for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2:

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, without letting it turn brown.

Step 3:

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently. The sauce will start to thicken, which is exactly what you want.

Step 4:

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it’s perfectly melted and combined. If the sauce gets too thick, drizzle in some of that reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5:

Season your sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Add the drained rotini to the skillet and toss everything until the pasta is completely coated in that dreamy sauce.

Step 6:

Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and some chopped parsley for that fresh touch.

Nutritional Information

This delicious Creamy Parmesan Rotini recipe serves 6–8 and provides a comforting meal that packs a punch with rich flavors. Each serving contains approximately 500 calories, with 30g of fat and 18g of protein.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, consider swapping out the heavy cream for half-and-half or using a vegan cream alternative. You can also replace the butter with olive oil for a healthier fat option. Don’t forget to add in some steamed broccoli or spinach for a delightful and nutritious twist.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Parmesan Rotini pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread on the side. For added protein, serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in roasted vegetables for a pop of color and flavor.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is not reserving enough pasta water. This starchy water is key to achieving the desired sauce consistency, so don’t forget it. Also, be careful not to overcook your garlic; it should be fragrant and slightly golden, but not burnt, as that can make your dish taste bitter.

Chef’s Notes

• For a twist on the classic, consider adding some cooked sausage or bacon for a smoky flavor.
• This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the rotini pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  A1: Yes, just prepare everything and store it separately. You can reheat the pasta and sauce together on the stove, adding a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
• Q2: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
  A2: Absolutely; Just omit any meat and add in more veggies for texture and taste.
• Q3: What should I do if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
  A3: You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a saltier flavor or even a nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

The Creamy Parmesan Rotini is a staple in our home that never fails to impress family and friends alike. If you’re looking for a comforting pasta dish that warms the heart, look no further. And for more creamy pasta goodness, don’t forget to check out my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Chicken Recipe and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. Let’s get cooking!

Print