Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef

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This Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is the kind of comfort food that brings everyone to the table with eager appetites. It combines the hearty richness of ground beef with a creamy, buttery garlic sauce that clings to every spiral of tender rotini pasta. Every bite delivers cozy satisfaction, from the golden cheesy topping to the hint of herbs sprinkled just before serving.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is both indulgent and surprisingly simple. With minimal prep and everyday pantry ingredients, it comes together quickly but tastes like you spent all day on it. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want to treat yourself, this cheesy rotini delivers the kind of homemade goodness that warms your soul.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this comforting meal, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:

• Large Pot: You’ll need this to boil the rotini pasta. The bigger the pot, the better the water circulation and the more evenly your pasta will cook.
• Deep Skillet or Sauté Pan: Essential for browning the ground beef and cooking the garlic butter sauce. A deep skillet helps contain everything as it simmers and melds.
• Colander: For draining the pasta. A sturdy colander prevents spills and ensures your pasta isn’t waterlogged.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps mix everything without scratching non-stick surfaces. These tools are perfect for folding the cheese into the pasta.
• Cheese Grater: If using fresh cheese (which we recommend for best melt and flavor), a grater ensures even texture and better incorporation.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision counts, especially with the butter, garlic, and cheese ratio. These help maintain balance without overwhelming the dish.

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

• Rotini Pasta – The spiral shape is perfect for catching every bit of the rich garlic butter sauce and melted cheese.
• Ground Beef – Adds heartiness and protein, giving the dish its satisfying savory base.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses the butter with robust flavor and aroma.
• Butter – Forms the base of the creamy sauce, giving it richness and smoothness.
• Heavy Cream – Helps create a luscious texture and adds to the indulgent creaminess.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully into the sauce for a classic sharp, cheesy flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Adds a stretchy, gooey texture that pulls everything together.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
• Parsley (optional) – A pop of color and freshness to finish off the dish.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Base

Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add the butter and minced garlic. Let the garlic sizzle and become fragrant (about 1 minute).

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the butter and garlic. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses

Sprinkle in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rotini into the skillet. Toss well to coat every piece of pasta with the creamy, cheesy sauce and beef mixture.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a bit of brightness. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.

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Serving and Storing Your Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef

This pasta is best served hot and fresh, right after the cheese has melted to gooey perfection. Scoop generous portions into bowls or onto plates, and if you want to go all out, serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.

If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream before microwaving or warming on the stovetop to revive the creamy texture without drying it out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while browning the ground beef. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a spicy twist.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or shells all work great and hold onto the sauce just as well.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be slightly less rich. Add a tablespoon of flour to help it thicken if needed.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as directed.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Peas, spinach, or chopped bell peppers can be added after the beef is browned or mixed in at the end for extra nutrition and color.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Just swap the rotini with your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your cheeses and other ingredients for any hidden gluten.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with a Comfort Twist?

If this cheesy rotini pasta hit the spot, you’ll love exploring these other cozy, flavor-packed pasta dishes:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Looking for even more? Follow me on Pinterest at Life With Olivia where I share my daily recipe inspirations.

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

And let me know in the comments how it turned out for you. Did you make it extra cheesy? Add some veggies or spice?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Feel free to ask questions or share your tips—let’s make dinner even better together.

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