Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage and Spinach

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Looking for a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes? This Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage, and Spinach checks every box. Imagine juicy sausage and tender ground beef mingling with garlic butter-soaked rotini, all wrapped in melted cheese and vibrant spinach—a true weeknight hero that delivers on taste and comfort.

This hearty pasta dish is not only satisfying but surprisingly simple. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a go-to solution that turns ordinary pantry staples into something crave-worthy. The creamy, garlicky sauce clings perfectly to every twist of rotini, while the sausage and beef add richness and depth. It’s a meal that tastes like a slow-cooked Sunday dinner but fits perfectly into your Tuesday night routine.

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Why You’ll Love This Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage and Spinach

• Quick & Satisfying: Ready in 30 minutes, this pasta dish makes busy weeknights less stressful and more delicious.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean without compromising flavor. Cook the meat, sauce, and pasta in one pot for easy cleanup.
• Rich, Buttery Flavor: The garlic butter base elevates every bite, balancing savory meat with fresh spinach.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will devour this cheesy, meaty comfort meal.
• Customizable: Swap the spinach for kale, use spicy sausage for heat, or add a splash of cream for a silkier finish.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this dinner as effortless as possible, you’ll want the right tools ready to go:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where all the magic happens. You need plenty of room to brown the meat and stir in the pasta and spinach without crowding.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta (if not one-pot cooking): A sturdy pot with salted water ensures your rotini is perfectly al dente.
• Colander: For draining the pasta if cooking it separately.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for browning the meat and stirring the sauce without scratching your cookware.
• Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts smoother and tastes better than pre-shredded.

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Ingredients for the Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage and Spinach

• Rotini Pasta: Its spiral shape captures the garlic butter sauce beautifully in every bite.
• Ground Beef: Adds a savory, hearty base to complement the sausage.
• Italian Sausage: Brings depth and spice; use mild or hot depending on your taste.
• Fresh Garlic: The backbone of the garlic butter sauce.
• Butter: Infuses the pasta with rich, velvety flavor.
• Spinach: Balances the richness and adds color and nutrients.
• Heavy Cream (optional): For an even creamier texture.
• Mozzarella or Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the dish, adding gooey, cheesy goodness.
• Salt, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: For seasoning and optional heat.

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How To Make the Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage and Spinach

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Break apart with a spoon, and drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add the Garlic Butter Base

Lower the heat slightly and add minced garlic and butter to the skillet. Stir until the butter is melted and garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Boil and Add Rotini

Cook rotini pasta in a separate pot according to package directions (or add dry pasta and broth if doing one-pot method). Once cooked, drain and add to the skillet.

Step 4: Stir in Spinach and Cheese

Fold in fresh spinach until wilted. Add cheese and stir until melted through. Add a splash of cream if desired.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Serve hot with extra cheese on top if you like it extra gooey.

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Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Rotini

This pasta is best served hot right off the stove, when the cheese is melty and the butter is silky. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a full meal.

Got leftovers? They store beautifully. Place cooled pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or broth and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Reheat with a bit of cream or broth to bring back the sauce’s richness.

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, bowties, or shells also work well to hold the sauce.

What kind of sausage works best?

Italian sausage is ideal—either mild or spicy depending on your preference. You can also use chicken or turkey sausage.

How can I make it spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for more kick.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, though the texture of the spinach may change slightly. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives. Omit the cream or swap in a plant-based version.

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Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this hearty garlic butter rotini, try these other cheesy pasta favorites:

• Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
• One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
• Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Spinach Tortellini

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap the sausage or use kale instead of spinach? Did you add more cheese on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Share your tips or questions below—let’s help each other cook better, even on busy nights.

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