Golden rotini spirals coated in a velvety garlic butter sauce, tender ground beef crumbles tucked between each curl, and a bubbling layer of melted cheese on top. If that doesn’t sound like comfort food perfection, we don’t know what does. This Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is a weeknight lifesaver and a weekend indulgence all in one pan.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping leftovers for busy days, or simply craving something creamy, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying, this dish is a go-to favorite. It balances hearty protein with rich flavor and can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or extra spice. Make it once, and it’ll land a permanent spot in your rotation.

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

Ultimate Comfort Food: Melty cheese and garlic butter elevate this pasta to crave-worthy.
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor. Everything comes together easily.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters dive into this bowl of cheesy goodness.
Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps beautifully for lunches or leftovers.
Easy to Customize: Add mushrooms, spinach, or red pepper flakes to make it your own.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive in, make sure your kitchen is equipped for success. Here are the essential tools you’ll need:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where the magic happens. A deep skillet allows you to brown the beef, melt the garlic butter, and mix everything without spills.
Medium Pot: Boil your rotini pasta to al dente perfection here. A generously sized pot ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Colander: Drain your pasta without hassle. Choose one that sits securely over your sink.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Gentle yet firm, these are ideal for stirring the beef and folding everything together.
Cheese Grater: If you’re using fresh cheese, this makes a huge difference in melt and flavor.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision matters, especially for the garlic butter sauce balance.

With these tools and a little prep, you’re well on your way to a delicious, soul-warming dinner.

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

Rotini Pasta: These twisted spirals hold the sauce perfectly, making every bite flavorful and cheesy.
Ground Beef: Adds savory richness and a hearty texture that anchors the dish.
Garlic: The star of the sauce; it infuses deep, aromatic flavor into every element.
Butter: Creates the luxurious base of the sauce and carries the garlic notes.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully to form a gooey, golden topping.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty sharpness that balances the creamy components.
Italian Seasoning: Enhances depth with herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
Salt & Pepper: Simple but essential to bring out all the flavors.
Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat.

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

Step 1: Boil the Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente, following package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

Add butter to the skillet with the beef. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked rotini to the skillet. Toss gently to coat pasta evenly in the garlic butter beef mixture. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan over the pasta in the skillet. Cover with a lid and let sit over low heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness!

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

This cheesy rotini is best enjoyed hot from the skillet, with the cheese still gooey and the garlic butter aroma filling the air. Serve it family-style straight from the pan, or plate it with a crisp side salad and garlic bread for a full meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce and microwave gently or warm on the stovetop. This dish also freezes nicely for up to 2 months—perfect for future cravings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms. You’ll still get plenty of umami flavor with the garlic butter and cheese combo.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! While rotini works best to hold the sauce, penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta are great alternatives that hold up well with the cheesy sauce.

What cheese alternatives work well?

Feel free to mix in cheddar for a sharper taste or provolone for more creaminess. A sprinkle of smoked gouda can also add depth.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the entire dish, then refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, warm it gently in a covered pan or bake at 350°F until bubbly.

Is this dish spicy?

Not unless you want it to be! Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter base if you like a little kick.

How can I make it more saucy?

Stir in a splash of cream, milk, or even a spoonful of cream cheese before adding the pasta to enrich and loosen the sauce.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Cheesy Twist?

If you’re loving this Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef, you’ll definitely want to check out more comforting, flavor-packed dishes:

Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta — a close cousin to this recipe, with tender bowties and cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for a Tex-Mex spin that the whole family will love.
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole when you want something indulgent and freezer-friendly.
Hearty Italian Sausage Soup if you’re in the mood for something comforting yet brothy.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta when you’re feeding a crowd or want classic Italian flavors.

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Let me know in the comments how your version turned out. Did you use spicy sausage instead of ground beef? Add some broccoli or spinach? I’d love to hear your twist!

And if you’ve got any questions, feel free to ask—I’m always here to help you make kitchen magic happen.