If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful dinner, this Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Butter Beef is the perfect choice. Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and savory beef, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete feast.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Rich and Flavorful: A creamy garlic butter sauce with perfectly seasoned beef.
2. Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a go-to weeknight dinner.
3. Customizable: Add vegetables or swap proteins to make it your own.
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Ingredients
12 oz rotini pasta
1 lb ground beef
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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2. Cook the Beef
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
2. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
3. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
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3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
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4. Add the Cheeses
1. Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
2. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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5. Combine Everything
1. Add the cooked rotini pasta and the seasoned ground beef to the skillet with the cheese sauce.
2. Toss everything together until the pasta and beef are fully coated in the creamy garlic butter sauce.
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6. Serve and Garnish
1. Remove the skillet from the heat.
2. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Fresh Green Salad: Adds a refreshing balance to the rich dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Try broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
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Tips for the Perfect Dish
1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in the creamy sauce.
2. Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, avoid pre-minced garlic.
3. Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for a nutritious twist.
4. Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents.
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Variations
Chicken Option: Swap ground beef for cooked shredded chicken or ground turkey.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and add roasted veggies or plant-based meat alternatives.
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Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 6 Servings)
Calories: ~450
Protein: ~22g
Fat: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
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Why This Recipe Works
This dish is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. The garlic butter sauce brings a rich depth of flavor, while the beef adds heartiness. It’s a comforting yet elegant meal that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests.
So, grab your skillet and get ready to whip up this Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Butter Beef—a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!
