Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef

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Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is your ultimate go-to when comfort and flavor are top priority. Each spiral of rotini is coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, layered with gooey cheese and studded with hearty ground beef. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl—easy enough for busy weeknights, but satisfying enough for cozy weekends in.

This recipe combines three unbeatable elements: pasta, beef, and cheese. It’s creamy, savory, and just the right amount of garlicky. If you’re craving a filling and affordable dinner idea that’ll please the entire family, this one’s a keeper.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Rotini Pasta Recipe

You’ll love how simple yet deeply flavorful this recipe is. The rotini holds the garlic butter sauce in every curve and twist, while the browned ground beef adds savory depth. The melted cheese pulls it all together into a comforting, fork-twirling masterpiece.

It’s kid-approved, budget-friendly, and customizable. You can spice it up, toss in veggies, or make it extra cheesy. No fancy ingredients—just pantry staples with maximum payoff.

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What Type of Cheese Works Best?

Mozzarella and sharp cheddar make the dream team for this recipe. Mozzarella melts into creamy perfection, while cheddar brings a bold, tangy bite. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can mix in provolone or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. Avoid pre-shredded bags for best melt quality—freshly grated cheese melts smoother and tastes better.

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

This dish uses everyday ingredients that come together for bold, comforting flavor:

• Rotini Pasta – Its spiraled shape is perfect for catching sauce in every bite.
• Ground Beef – Adds a hearty, savory base that makes the dish filling.
• Garlic – The star of the sauce, it brings aromatic flavor throughout.
• Butter – Makes the sauce rich, velvety, and flavorful.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for that classic cheesy pull.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds bold, tangy flavor to balance the richness.
• Heavy Cream or Milk – Helps loosen the sauce while adding creaminess.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasoning essentials to enhance all the other flavors.
• Fresh Parsley – Optional, but brightens up the dish with color and freshness.

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How To Make the Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart and cook until fully browned. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Add butter to the skillet with the cooked beef. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in cream or milk and stir to combine.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Melt

Lower heat and add both cheeses gradually, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained rotini to the skillet and toss until everything is well coated in the cheesy garlic butter sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the pasta hot, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

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How to Serve and Store Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef

This dish is best served warm right off the stove when the cheese is melty and the sauce is silky. It’s perfect on its own or with a side of crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce.

This recipe yields 4 generous servings, making it perfect for family dinner or meal prep.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool and transfer it to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

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What to Serve With Cheesy Rotini Pasta?

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the garlic butter sauce perfectly.

2. Caesar Salad

A cool, crisp Caesar salad balances the richness of the pasta.

3. Steamed Green Beans

Add a pop of color and freshness with simple steamed veggies.

4. Roasted Asparagus

Lightly roasted asparagus with lemon pairs well with the creamy, cheesy pasta.

5. Tomato Cucumber Salad

A refreshing and tangy salad that cuts through the richness.

6. Sauteed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms add a nice umami note if you’re looking to bulk up the meal.

7. Iced Tea or Lemon Water

A light drink to cleanse your palate between bites.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni work great. Just make sure it’s a pasta that holds sauce well.

2. Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes! You can use whole milk, half and half, or even a mix of milk and cream cheese for similar creaminess.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. It reheats well—just add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

4. What ground meat can I substitute?

Ground turkey or chicken work well and make a slightly lighter version. Even Italian sausage adds great flavor.

5. Can I freeze this pasta dish?

Freezing is possible but not ideal, as the cheese sauce can change texture. If freezing, do so before adding the cheese and add it fresh when reheating.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Did you try a cheese blend or maybe added a veggie twist? Let me know how you personalized it—I love seeing your creative takes!

Find more hearty meals and family-favorite pasta ideas over at Tanya Recipes on Pinterest.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—fast, comforting, and full of flavor. From the cheesy spirals to the rich beefy sauce, every forkful is pure satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week, this is a no-fuss winner you’ll come back to again and again.

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