Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef

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Twists of rotini pasta cloaked in a silky garlic butter sauce, generously layered with savory ground beef and finished with a blanket of gooey, melted cheese—this dish is everything comfort food should be. It’s rich, satisfying, and full of flavor in every bite. The corkscrew shape of the rotini traps the velvety sauce perfectly, ensuring each mouthful delivers the perfect balance of cheese, butter, beef, and subtle herbs.

Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner, looking to impress guests with a hearty meal, or simply craving something indulgent, Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef fits the bill. It’s easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. And best of all? It tastes even better the next day.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef

• Incredible Flavor: The fusion of garlic butter and browned beef creates a rich, savory base that complements the cheesy pasta beautifully.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Perfect for cozy nights or when you need a mood boost—this dish is pure edible comfort.
• Quick & Simple: No complex prep or hard-to-find ingredients; it’s a weeknight winner.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
• Versatile: Use different pasta shapes or swap in ground turkey or plant-based meat for easy customization.
• Leftover Gold: It reheats beautifully, making for dreamy next-day lunches.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

To make Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef without a hitch, having the right tools on hand will save time and elevate the cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where you’ll brown the beef and build the garlic butter sauce. A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even cooking and prevents the garlic from burning.
• Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: You’ll need plenty of room to let the rotini move freely. Salting the water properly in this pot is key to flavoring the pasta from the inside out.
• Colander: For draining the pasta efficiently without overcooking it.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the beef and sauce while scraping up browned bits that add flavor.
• Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a creamier sauce than pre-shredded options.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters, especially for balancing butter, garlic, and seasoning.
• Mixing Bowl (Optional): Helpful if you want to toss everything together before serving.

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Preparation Tips

• Salt the Pasta Water Heavily: Think of it like seasoning soup—it’s your only chance to flavor the pasta itself.
• Grate Cheese Fresh: Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Use Lean Ground Beef: An 85/15 or 90/10 ratio keeps the dish hearty without being greasy.
• Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Sauté it just until fragrant—burnt garlic turns bitter fast.
• Reserve Pasta Water: A splash can help loosen the sauce and help it cling better to the rotini.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: It will finish cooking slightly when tossed in the warm sauce, absorbing more flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Especially when seasoning—every batch of beef and cheese can behave differently.

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Ingredients for This Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef

Here’s everything you need to bring this crave-worthy pasta to life. Simple pantry staples come together to create big flavor.

Main Ingredients:

• 12 oz rotini pasta – The spiral shape perfectly traps the sauce.
• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) – Adds savory depth and richness.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – The base of the garlic butter sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fragrant and flavorful.
• 1 cup beef broth – Enhances the umami flavor and builds the sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce velvety and indulgent.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Melts into the sauce for cheesy goodness.
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese – Adds that stretchy, melty factor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds warmth and complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Brings a subtle herbal balance.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.

Optional Garnish:

• Chopped parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Extra grated Parmesan – For an extra cheesy kick.

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Step 1: Boil the Rotini

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Salt it generously, then add the rotini. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—firm to the bite. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water. Then, drain and set the pasta aside.

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Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned, about 6–8 minutes. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, season lightly with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat if needed, then remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant—don’t let it brown.

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Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.

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Step 5: Add the Cheese

Lower the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese a handful at a time, mixing until smooth and melty. The sauce should be creamy, not clumpy.

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Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rotini and browned beef back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta completely. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

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Step 7: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and Parmesan, if using. Serve hot and cheesy!

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Notes

• Pasta Shape Matters: Rotini is ideal because it holds sauce well, but you can also use penne, fusilli, or even shells in a pinch.
• Control the Creaminess: Add the cheese slowly and keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from breaking or turning gritty.
• Make It Your Own: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth, or swap the ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicier version.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta: Pasta continues to cook slightly after it’s removed from water. Stop at al dente or it will turn mushy when mixed into the sauce.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks fast and burns even faster—sauté it just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
• Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Dumping all the cheese in at once can cause clumps. Stir it in gradually over low heat to get a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: That starchy liquid can rescue a dry or overly thick sauce—don’t forget to save some before draining!
• Undersalting: From the pasta water to the beef and sauce, every component needs seasoning. Taste as you go!
• Using Pre-shredded Cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting—grate your cheese fresh for the best texture.
• High Heat with Dairy: Heavy cream and cheese don’t like high heat—it can cause separation. Keep it low and slow when combining dairy.
• Not Draining Excess Beef Fat: Too much grease from the beef can make the dish oily instead of rich. Drain it unless you’re using very lean meat.

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What to Serve With Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef?

This hearty pasta dish shines on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Here are a few ideas to balance out the richness with fresh, crunchy, or light elements:

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8 Recommendations:

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
   The obvious and delicious choice—perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
2. Classic Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons add refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Think carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Roasting brings out their sweetness, which pairs nicely with the savory beef.
4. Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans
   Simple, nutritious, and quick—these veggies offer a fresh bite that cuts through the cheese.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with balsamic glaze bring a light, Italian-inspired touch.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts
   Tossed with olive oil and roasted until golden—these add texture and earthy flavor.
7. Tomato Basil Soup
   Creamy tomato soup and cheesy pasta? It’s like a hug in a bowl combo.
8. Sparkling Water with Lemon or a Light Red Wine
   To cleanse the palate and keep the meal from feeling too heavy.

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Storage Instructions

Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef stores wonderfully and can easily become tomorrow’s lunch or a quick dinner later in the week. Here’s how to store it right:

• Refrigerator:
  Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools down slightly before sealing to prevent condensation.
• Freezer:
  You can freeze this dish, although the texture of the cheese sauce might change slightly. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slowly on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.
• Reheating Tips:
  Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring often. Add a little milk or reserved pasta water to revive the creamy texture if it thickens too much.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — Serves 6)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	540 kcal
Total Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	14g
Unsaturated Fat	11g
Trans Fat	0.5g
Cholesterol	95mg
Sodium	480mg
Carbohydrates	44g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	2g
Protein	30g
Serving Size	~1 1/2 cups

Note: These values are estimates and can vary depending on specific brands or modifications.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of ground beef is best for this recipe?

Go for lean ground beef—something like 85/15 or 90/10. It gives you enough fat for flavor without turning the dish greasy. If using higher-fat beef, be sure to drain the excess grease before adding it to the sauce.

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Can I use a different pasta shape instead of rotini?

Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work well. Just choose a pasta that holds sauce effectively—shapes with ridges or twists are ideal.

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Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe reheats beautifully. You can make it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, and add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

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What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free version, try unsweetened coconut cream or a thick oat-based cream alternative.

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Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?

While it’s convenient, freshly grated cheese melts much better and gives you a smoother, creamier sauce. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

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Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely. Skip the ground beef and replace it with plant-based crumbles, mushrooms, or even lentils for a meat-free version.

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Can I freeze this pasta?

Yes, but keep in mind that creamy sauces can change texture slightly after freezing. It’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with added liquid to restore creaminess.

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How do I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic, or stir in a spoonful of chili oil at the end. You could also swap in spicy Italian sausage for the beef.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is one of those rare meals that manages to be comforting, indulgent, and easy all at once. It’s loaded with creamy, garlicky flavor, and hearty enough to feed a hungry family—or just yourself with delicious leftovers. Whether you’re craving something rich after a long day or need a dependable crowd-pleaser, this dish delivers every single time. Try it once, and it just might become a go-to in your weekly dinner rotation.

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