The aroma of bubbling, cheesy rotini pasta wafts through the air, drawing you in like a moth to a flame. This dish, with its savory garlic butter sauce and tender ground beef, is a flavor explosion that promises to make your taste buds dance the cha-cha. Imagine twirling your fork in that creamy goodness, each bite melting in your mouth and leaving you craving just one more serving. The combination of cheesy richness and garlicky delight will have you questioning how you ever lived without this recipe in your life.
Thinking back to my childhood, I remember family gatherings where comfort food was the star of the show. My aunt would whip up her famous cheesy pasta dish, which was always met with enthusiastic cheers from hungry relatives. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a celebration of love, laughter, and all things delicious. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends, Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is the perfect companion for those moments that call for warmth and joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheesy Rotini Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- The rich flavors of garlic butter mingled with ground beef create an irresistible taste sensation.
- A visual feast with its creamy texture and colorful ingredients, it will impress everyone at your table.
- It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices, keeping every meal exciting!
Ingredients for Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Rotini Pasta: This corkscrew-shaped pasta holds onto sauces beautifully; about 12 ounces works well for four servings.
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease but still plenty of flavor; around one pound is perfect.
- Fresh Garlic: You’ll want about four cloves minced; fresh garlic adds that wonderful aromatic punch!
- Unsalted Butter: Use half a cup to create that luscious garlic butter sauce; unsalted allows better control over seasoning.
- Heavy Cream: About one cup brings richness to the dish; opt for heavy cream for a velvety texture.
- Shredded Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and cheddar (about two cups) elevates the cheesiness factor significantly!
- Salt & Pepper: Season to taste; these humble spices bring out all the flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Rotini
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add about twelve ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually around eight to ten minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While your pasta cooks, grab a large skillet over medium heat. Melt half a cup of unsalted butter and toss in four minced garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant—you’re aiming for that mouthwatering aroma!
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add one pound of lean ground beef into the skillet with the garlic butter. Break it apart as it cooks until browned evenly—this should take about five minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Once the rotini has cooked, drain it and add it directly into the skillet with your beef mixture. Pour in one cup of heavy cream along with two cups of shredded cheese (a mix of mozzarella and cheddar works wonders). Stir until everything is combined and melted!
Step 5: Season to Perfection
Toss in salt and pepper to taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, let your inner chef shine by adding some red pepper flakes or Italian herbs!
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer your cheesy creation onto plates or into bowls while it’s still warm. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce on top for an extra touch!
With these steps completed, you’re ready to indulge in this delightful dish that’s sure to steal hearts at your dinner table!
You Must Know
- This cheesy rotini pasta with garlic butter sauce and ground beef is a crowd-pleaser that transforms ordinary nights into something extraordinary.
- It’s creamy, comforting, and can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or surprise guests.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet until it’s nice and brown. While the beef cooks, boil your rotini in salted water until al dente. Once both are ready, combine them with the garlic butter sauce for a seamless finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or sautéed veggies if you’re looking for a healthier twist. Add some crushed red pepper for heat or toss in fresh spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave on medium until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to cook your pasta just shy of al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
- Use freshly minced garlic for maximum flavor impact in your butter sauce.
- Lastly, don’t skimp on cheese – it’s what makes this dish heavenly!
It was one of those evenings when I found myself completely unprepared for dinner guests. I threw this cheesy rotini pasta together and watched as everyone devoured it, asking for seconds—and thirds! It became my go-to recipe ever since.
FAQs
What is Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef?
Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is a flavorful dish that combines spiraled rotini pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a delightful mix of textures and tastes. The cheese adds a creamy element that ties all the ingredients together, making it a family favorite.
How long does it take to make Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef?
Preparing Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef typically takes about 30 minutes. This includes cooking the rotini pasta, browning the ground beef, and creating the delicious garlic butter sauce. With such a quick preparation time, you can enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week.
Can I customize my Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You may also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Feel free to adjust the cheese type to your liking; mozzarella or cheddar works great. This flexibility allows you to create your perfect cheesy rotini dish.
Is Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and satisfying meal later.
Conclusion for Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef
Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is a deliciously comforting dish that’s easy to prepare. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you choose to customize it or stick to the classic recipe, this pasta dish provides both satisfaction and versatility. Enjoy this delightful meal any day of the week!
Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this creamy, cheesy rotini pasta dish, featuring savory garlic butter and tender ground beef. A comforting meal ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add lean ground beef to the skillet with garlic butter. Cook until browned evenly, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Add cooked rotini to the skillet with beef and garlic mixture. Pour in heavy cream and add shredded cheese. Stir until combined and melted.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper according to your preference. For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes or Italian herbs.
- Transfer to plates or bowls while warm, drizzling any remaining garlic butter sauce on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: You can customize by swapping ground beef for turkey or adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat on medium in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth.
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