If you’re searching for a dish that wraps comforting, indulgent flavors into every forkful, this Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter and Ground Beef Recipe is going to become your new go-to. With tender spiraled pasta bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce and dotted with savory ground beef, this recipe balances melty cheese and fragrant herbs that will have you savoring each bite like a warm hug. Simple ingredients come together to create a meal that feels both hearty and special—perfect for cozy weeknights or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward but essential ingredients that each play a starring role in the final flavor and texture. From the sturdy rotini that holds on to every bit of sauce to the garlic-studded butter that adds depth and aroma, each element works in harmony to make this dish irresistible.
- 8 ounces Rotini Pasta: Its spirals capture sauce beautifully, perfect for this cheesy, beefy dish.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: Adds rich, savory flavor and a hearty protein punch—can swap for turkey or plant-based if preferred.
- 4 tablespoons Butter: Creates the luscious garlic butter base; olive oil can be used for a lighter version.
- 3 cloves Garlic (Minced): Infuses the dish with fragrant and bold undertones.
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey, creamy deliciousness—try a cheddar blend for a flavor twist.
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Offers a sharp, tangy contrast and depth; leave out for dairy-free options.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly—adjust to your taste.
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick to balance richness.
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley (Optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and brightness.
How to Make Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter and Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cooking the Rotini
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This is crucial because salty water seasons the pasta from within, creating a more flavorful base. Add the rotini and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente, meaning it’s tender but still has a pleasant bite. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent clumping. Once done, drain the pasta while reserving half a cup of the pasta water—you’ll find this starchy liquid is magic for smoothing out your sauce.
Step 2: Browning the Ground Beef
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef. Break it apart and cook it for about 7 to 10 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Stir frequently to get an even cook and a nice texture. Afterward, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy, then season with salt and black pepper to infuse a lovely, savory depth right in the beef.
Step 3: Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the skillet’s heat to medium-low and melt the butter carefully so it doesn’t brown—this will create a silky, nutty base for your sauce. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for one to two minutes until it fills your kitchen with that comforting aroma but hasn’t turned bitter. This step is where the flavor starts to build so don’t rush it.
Step 4: Bringing It All Together
Pour a splash of the reserved pasta water into the skillet; this adds moisture and helps loosen up the sauce to silky perfection. Add the cooked rotini and the browned beef right into your garlic butter skillet. Toss gently but thoroughly so every pasta spiral gets coated in that delicious buttery garlic goodness alongside tender beef bits. The pasta water acts like glue, bringing everything together beautifully.
Step 5: Adding the Cheese
Finally, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring continuously over low heat until all the cheese melts into the mixture creating a creamy, luscious sauce that clings to every twist and turn of the pasta. It’s the perfect balance of gooey and savory that makes this Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter and Ground Beef Recipe such a standout.
Step 6: Serving
Serve your creation piping hot, straight from the skillet. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like that touch of color and herbaceous freshness that cuts through the richness. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is still melty and the flavors are vibrant.
How to Serve Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter and Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds brightness and a slight crunch, balancing the richness of the dish wonderfully. You can also sprinkle extra grated Parmesan for an ooey-gooey finish or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want to bring a little heat to the mix.
Side Dishes
This indulgent pasta pairs exceptionally well with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to add contrast. Garlic bread or a warm baguette can also elevate the meal by letting you scoop up every last bit of that sumptuous sauce. For a veggie boost, roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans make fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter and Ground Beef Recipe in individual ramekins and bake briefly with extra cheese on top to create a bubbly, golden crust. Another crowd-pleaser is layering it in a casserole dish and finishing with toasted breadcrumbs for an irresistible crunch on top—perfect for potlucks or family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify after sitting overnight, making it an excellent next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool fully, then transfer into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that pasta may absorb some sauce liquid when thawed, so stirring in a splash of water or broth when reheating helps refresh the texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of water or milk to loosen up the sauce if needed. You can also microwave covered in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini’s twists are perfect for holding sauce, penne or fusilli are excellent substitutes that will work just as well for this recipe.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meaty texture without the meat.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Omit the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free butter substitute and vegan cheese to enjoy a similar taste and texture.
What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking and make sure the water is boiling vigorously before adding the pasta to keep pieces from clumping together.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can cook the pasta and ground beef ahead of time, then combine and add the garlic butter sauce and cheese right before serving to keep the freshest textures.
Final Thoughts
I really encourage you to give this Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter and Ground Beef Recipe a whirl in your kitchen. It’s one of those heartwarming, crowd-pleasing dishes that feels both reassuring and indulgent all at once. With easy steps, straightforward ingredients, and a flavor profile that never disappoints, this recipe truly earns a special place in your weeknight rotation or your next comfort food craving session.
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Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter and Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Indulge in this comforting cheesy rotini pasta dish featuring garlic butter and savory browned ground beef. This recipe combines tender pasta with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a creamy, flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces Rotini Pasta (can substitute with penne or fusilli)
Meat
- 1 pound Ground Beef (can replace with turkey or plant-based meat)
Butter & Garlic
- 4 tablespoons Butter (optional substitute: olive oil for a healthier twist)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
Cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (or cheddar blend for flavor variation)
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional, omit for dairy-free)
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust to preference)
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper (customize to taste)
Garnish
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta in a colander and reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later use.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until nicely browned. Drain excess fat from the skillet and season the beef with salt and black pepper.
- Sauté Garlic in Butter: Lower the skillet heat to medium-low. Add butter and let it melt, then stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Add Reserved Pasta Water: Pour a splash of the reserved pasta water into the skillet. This helps create a silky sauce when combined with the melted cheese.
- Combine Pasta and Beef: Gently fold in the drained rotini pasta and browned beef into the skillet, tossing everything to evenly coat with the garlic butter.
- Incorporate Cheese: Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese continuously until the cheeses melt completely and form a creamy sauce that envelops the pasta and beef.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the pasta hot, immediately after cooking. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, substitute butter with olive oil.
- To make this dish dairy-free, omit the Parmesan cheese and use vegan mozzarella.
- You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Reserve some pasta water as it helps in creating a smooth, creamy sauce when combined with cheese and butter.
- Adjust salt and pepper based on dietary needs and taste preferences.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and fresh flavor but is optional.
