When you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful meal that’s sure to please the entire family, Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Butter Beef is the answer. This dish combines the satisfying texture of rotini pasta with the richness of a garlic butter beef sauce, topped with a glorious melty blend of cheeses. It’s a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners, gatherings with friends, or any occasion that calls for something indulgent.

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week when I needed something quick, yet comforting and filling. After a long day, the smell of garlic butter sizzling in the pan, combined with the cheese melting into the pasta, was enough to turn an average night into a cozy culinary experience. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity, with just a few ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s the type of meal that’s perfect for all ages and any event, from a casual family dinner to a meal prep for the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

12 oz rotini pasta

For the Garlic Butter Beef Sauce:

1 lb ground beef
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
Fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Rotini Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water, and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet with the cooked beef, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, and cook for another 30 seconds to allow the spices to bloom.

Step 4: Add the Heavy Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic butter mixture. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Next, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Beef Sauce

Add the cooked rotini to the skillet with the cheesy garlic butter beef sauce. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is combined and heated through, transfer the cheesy rotini to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variation:

Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute, such as lentils or crumbled tofu, seasoned with the same spices and garlic butter.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free rotini pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Ensure the cheese and heavy cream are gluten-free as well.
Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.

Cooking Notes:

Cheese Choices: While mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan work beautifully in this dish, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique twist on the classic flavors.
Perfect Ground Beef: When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it apart into small crumbles for an even texture. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead.
Pasta Sauce Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much after mixing in the cheese, add a little of the reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions:

Side Dishes: This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad—think arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light balsamic vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans will add color and balance the richness of the cheesy pasta.
Bread Pairing: Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any leftover sauce. A slice of warm, buttery bread is the perfect companion to this creamy dish.

Tips:

How to Store Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.
Meal Prep Tips: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it in individual portions. Just reheat with a little added cream or broth to keep it nice and creamy.
Make it Even Creamier: If you want an extra indulgent version, add an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream or more cheese for a super creamy, cheesy sauce.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Calories: 650 per serving
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 950mg

Details:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! If you prefer a different pasta shape, feel free to use penne, rotini, or farfalle. The key is to cook the pasta according to the package instructions so it’s al dente.
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage will work as a substitute for the ground beef. Just adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the meat you choose.
How do I make the sauce thicker? If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it for an additional few minutes to thicken it up. Alternatively, add a little extra cheese or even a spoonful of cream cheese for added richness.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the cheesy rotini. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to help restore the creamy texture.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Butter Beef is one of those dishes that’s so satisfying, it’s sure to become a favorite in your weekly dinner rotation. It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that brings together the best flavors in a comforting, cheesy pasta. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or preparing it in advance for the week, this dish will never disappoint. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the cozy goodness that comes with every bite. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below About this Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Butter Beef and check out more cheesy pasta recipes on the site!

Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Butter Beef

Author: Imili Johnson
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 1x

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