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If you are craving a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Indulgent Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. The spiral-shaped rotini perfectly traps the rich, garlicky butter sauce and melty cheese, making every bite a celebration of comforting flavors. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for friends and family, this dish doesn’t just satisfy hunger, it creates a moment of pure pasta joy that sticks with you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in crafting that irresistible homemade taste, texture, and aroma that make this dish so unforgettable. From the perfectly shaped rotini pasta to the hearty ground beef, creamy cheeses, and fresh parsley, every element elevates the final result.
- 12 oz Rotini Pasta: The spirals hold onto the garlic butter sauce and cheese beautifully, making sure every bite is packed with flavor.
- 1 lb Ground Beef: Adds a savory richness and satisfying protein component; lean turkey is a great lighter alternative.
- 4 tbsp Butter: Essential for creating that luscious garlic butter base, though olive oil offers a lighter twist if you prefer.
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic brings an aromatic punch that infuses the entire dish with warmth and depth.
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Provides creamy stretch and gooeyness; cheddar or Italian blends work well too.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a tangy, salty finish that balances the creamy mozzarella perfectly; nutritional yeast is a non-dairy option.
- 1 tsp Salt: Enhances all the flavors for a perfectly seasoned dish.
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Introduces a subtle hint of spice and complexity.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped): Offers a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness; basil is a nice substitute or it can be left out if you prefer.
How to Make Indulgent Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This means you want it tender but still offering a slight bite to complement the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is thoroughly browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial as the beef provides a rich, savory foundation to the dish. Once browned, drain excess fat for a lighter finish and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and golden, about 1–2 minutes. The smell of garlic sizzling in butter is simply irresistible and forms the heart of this indulgent sauce.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Meat
Return the cooked rotini into the skillet with the garlic butter and ground beef. Toss everything together so the pasta gets evenly coated with the buttery garlic goodness and meat is well distributed.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Lower the heat and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the pasta mixture. Gently toss until the cheese melts into a creamy blanket enveloping each piece of rotini. This cheesy element elevates the dish to pure comfort food status.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. This final touch adds color, freshness, and a delicate herbaceous note that brightens the rich flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Indulgent Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper on top for an eye-catching finish. A few additional parsley leaves add a pop of color and freshness that will make your guests think you spent hours crafting this dish.
Side Dishes
This indulgent pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to contrast the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette on the side helps scoop up every last bit of that sumptuous sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Indulgent Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe in rustic pasta bowls to accentuate the cozy vibe, or dish it up in individual ramekins and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden cheese crust that makes everyone say wow.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal that tastes just as good.
Freezing
This pasta freezes well if stored in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, but be sure to leave space at the top as cheese expands slightly when frozen.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce as it warms. This keeps everything creamy and prevents the cheese from drying out. Microwaving works too but can dry out the pasta if overheated.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for holding the sauce, penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are excellent substitutes that will still deliver delicious results.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Indulgent Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite veggies instead. The garlic butter and cheese sauce remains just as luscious.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey, use olive oil instead of butter, and opt for part-skim cheeses. Adding extra vegetables is also a fantastic way to boost nutrition.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Mozzarella provides that wonderful stretch and creaminess, paired with Parmesan’s sharp tang for balance. Feel free to experiment with cheddar or Italian cheese blends to suit your taste.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?
Yes, you can make it ahead and warm it gently before serving. If broiling for a golden top, wait until right before serving to get that perfect bubbly finish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Indulgent Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe that feels like a culinary hug—rich, comforting, and bursting with flavor. I can’t recommend it enough for those evenings when you want to treat yourself or impress your loved ones with a deliciously satisfying meal. Give it a try, and prepare for lots of happy requests to make it again and again!
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Indulgent Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This indulgent cheesy rotini pasta with garlic butter sauce is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a family dinner. Featuring tender rotini pasta coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, combined with savory ground beef, and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this recipe offers a deliciously creamy and flavorful experience. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with alternative proteins or cheese varieties for a healthier or different twist.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz Rotini Pasta (Can substitute with penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.)
Protein
- 1 lb Ground Beef (Lean ground turkey can be used as a healthy alternative.)
Sauce & Seasoning
- 4 tbsp Butter (Olive oil works for a lighter version.)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced) (Fresh garlic is best, but powdered garlic can be used.)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Cheese & Garnish
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Swap with cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses.)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast can be used as a non-dairy option.)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) (Can also use basil or omit.)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic in the butter until fragrant and translucent, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the garlic butter. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir in the browned ground beef until combined.
- Add Cheese and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the pasta. Allow the cheese to melt slightly from the residual heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute lean ground turkey for a healthier protein option.
- Olive oil can replace butter for a lighter sauce variant.
- Fresh garlic gives the best flavor but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Cheese swaps: use cheddar or Italian cheese blends instead of mozzarella.
- For a non-dairy option, try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Fresh herbs like basil can be used instead of parsley for garnish.
- Ensure not to overcook the pasta to keep a firm texture.
