Beef Rotini Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This creamy garlic bread sensation combines melty cheese and aromatic garlic for the ultimate comfort side dish. The crispy exterior gives way to pockets of luxurious cream cheese studded with fresh herbs, making it irresistible for any gathering or family dinner.

I first made this pull-apart bread for a last-minute dinner party, and it disappeared faster than anything else on the table. Now my family requests it for everything from movie nights to holiday feasts.

Ingredients

• Soft white bread loaf: Brioche or milk bread work best as they have a tender texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior
• Cream cheese: Use full-fat for the creamiest result and bring to room temperature for easy mixing
• Fresh garlic: The star ingredient that infuses the bread with irresistible aroma
• Green onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and pretty color throughout the filling
• Butter: Creates a golden crust and carries garlic flavor throughout
• Fresh herbs: Parsley brightens the rich filling and adds visual appeal
• Red pepper flakes: Optional but adds a wonderful warmth that balances the creamy cheese
• Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all flavors into perfect harmony

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

Combine cream cheese and aromatics in a mixing bowl. The key is using room temperature cream cheese for a smooth consistency. Mix the softened cream cheese with minced garlic, finely chopped green onions, parsley, black pepper, and salt until completely incorporated. The mixture should be creamy and spreadable with visible flecks of green throughout.

Create the Heat Element:

If you enjoy a gentle warmth, fold red pepper flakes into your cream cheese mixture. Start with just a quarter teaspoon and adjust according to your heat preference. The spice will mellow slightly during baking but still provide a pleasant warmth that cuts through the richness.

Prepare the Bread Canvas:

Select your bread loaf and preheat your oven to 350°F. Using a serrated knife, make diagonal cuts about 1-2 inches apart across the loaf. Be careful not to slice completely through the bottom crust so the loaf stays connected. These diagonal cuts create diamond-shaped pockets that will hold maximum filling.

Fill and Butter:

With a small spoon or knife, generously spread the cream cheese mixture into each bread pocket. Work the filling deep into each crevice for flavor in every bite. Once filled, combine melted butter with salt and brush generously over the entire exterior of the loaf, allowing some to drip between slices.

Bake in Stages:

Wrap the filled loaf loosely in foil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes covered to allow the filling to warm and begin to melt. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the exterior becomes golden and crispy while the interior remains moist.

Apply Finishing Touch:

While the bread bakes, prepare the aromatic topping by mixing melted butter with fresh garlic and parsley. Once the bread is golden, brush this mixture over the hot loaf and return to the oven briefly. The residual heat will mellow the raw garlic edge while infusing the bread with incredible aroma.

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The first time I served this at a family gathering, my garlic-averse nephew took one bite and declared it his new favorite food. Something about the way the garlic mellows and sweetens during baking converts even the strongest skeptics.

Make-Ahead Options

This garlic bread can be completely assembled up to 8 hours before baking. Simply prepare the loaf with filling, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the bread to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking for even cooking. This makes it perfect for entertaining when you want to prepare components ahead of time.

Creative Variations

While the classic garlic cream cheese filling is incredible on its own, this recipe welcomes adaptation. Try adding shredded mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesier version. Swap green onions for caramelized onions for sweetness. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and basil for an Italian twist. The basic technique remains the same while allowing for endless flavor combinations.

Serving Suggestions

This pull-apart bread shines as both an appetizer and a side dish. Serve it alongside pasta dishes where the bread can soak up extra sauce. It pairs beautifully with soups, especially tomato or minestrone. For entertaining, place it in the center of the table and watch guests naturally gather around. The interactive nature of pulling apart the slices makes it perfect for casual gatherings.

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This cheesy, garlicky bread will become a favorite at your table, perfect for every occasion from casual dinners to festive gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta instead of rotini?

Yes, you can substitute rotini with other medium-sized pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. These alternatives will hold the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce well. Just be sure to cook according to package directions for al dente texture.

→ What cut of beef works best for this dish?

Ground beef works perfectly, but you can also use diced sirloin, chuck, or strip steak for a more substantial texture. For a leaner option, consider ground turkey or chicken as alternatives that still complement the garlic Parmesan sauce.

→ Can I make the garlic bread without cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a mixture of butter, minced garlic, herbs, and grated Parmesan for a more traditional garlic bread. Alternatively, mascarpone or ricotta cheese can replace cream cheese for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this vegetarian, simply omit the beef and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, and zucchini instead. The garlic Parmesan sauce works beautifully with vegetables, and you can add red pepper flakes for extra flavor depth.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

For the pasta, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. For the garlic bread, wrap loosely in foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 5-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving the bread as it can become tough.

→ Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling for the bread up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator. The beef can also be cooked ahead of time and refrigerated. Assemble and bake the bread just before serving for the best texture and flavor.