Few dishes bring together comfort and flavor quite like a big bowl of cheesy rotini pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce and paired with juicy, seasoned ground beef. The spiral shape of rotini perfectly captures every bit of creamy, cheesy sauce, making each bite satisfying from start to finish. This is the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and has everyone racing to the dinner table.

With its hearty ground beef, luscious garlic butter base, and generous layer of melted cheese, this pasta is an easy weeknight hero and a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. It delivers both a warm, home-cooked comfort and a bold, savory punch. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply treating yourself, it’s a dish that never disappoints.

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

This pasta isn’t just delicious—it’s versatile, budget-friendly, and simple to prepare. You get the richness of garlic butter without it being overpowering, and the cheese melts into the sauce to create a velvety coating on every piece of rotini. It’s a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and cheesy indulgence that works for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, it’s the kind of recipe you can easily tweak to suit your taste, adding extra veggies or swapping cheeses without losing its soul.

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

Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the rich, comforting flavors of this dish. Rotini pasta holds onto the sauce perfectly, ground beef adds hearty depth, garlic provides an aromatic punch, and the cheese creates that irresistible creamy finish.

Rotini pasta – its spirals capture all the cheesy garlic butter sauce.
Ground beef – brings savory flavor and protein.
Butter – the base of the sauce, adding richness.
Fresh garlic – infuses the butter with irresistible aroma and taste.
Shredded cheddar cheese – melts smoothly for a creamy, cheesy coating.
Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty edge to the sauce.
Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning and balance.
Fresh parsley – a fresh garnish to brighten the final dish.

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 and cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

Lower the heat to medium, then add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter and beef. Toss well to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Parmesan over the pasta, stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

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

This recipe comfortably serves 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or small gathering. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, so the cheese is still perfectly melted and gooey. For leftovers, allow the pasta to cool before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to refresh the sauce’s creaminess.

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

Garlic Bread

A warm, buttery side that complements the pasta’s rich flavors.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine with creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast.

Steamed Broccoli

Adds a light, nutritious balance to the meal.

Roasted Asparagus

Earthy, slightly sweet asparagus pairs well with the garlic butter.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a vibrant, tangy counterpoint.

Sautéed Spinach

Quickly wilted spinach with a hint of garlic keeps the veggie content high.

Antipasto Platter

Cured meats, olives, and marinated veggies make for a fun, appetizer-style side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti can work, though rotini’s spirals do hold the sauce best.

Q2: How can I make this recipe lighter?
Use lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey, and reduce the cheese by half. You can also add extra vegetables to bulk it up without extra calories.

Q3: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes. You can cook the pasta and beef in advance, then reheat with the garlic butter and cheese just before serving.

Q4: Does it freeze well?
While you can freeze it, pasta may lose some texture upon reheating. If freezing, slightly undercook the pasta and store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Q5: What cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?
Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses can give you a similar creamy texture.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different cheese blend? Did you add veggies for extra color?
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Conclusion

Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is the definition of weeknight comfort food—simple to make, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable. Whether served fresh off the stove or reheated for a quick lunch, it delivers a satisfying bite every time. It’s a recipe you’ll keep in your back pocket for when you need something hearty, cheesy, and undeniably delicious.