Garlic Butter Beef & Rotini Pasta is the kind of simple, satisfying meal that never disappoints. Tender rotini pasta is tossed with savory ground beef, rich garlic butter, and a light, flavorful sauce that coats every twist of pasta perfectly. It’s comforting, hearty, and packed with bold flavor—yet easy enough for even the busiest weeknights.
What makes this dish especially appealing is its balance. The garlic butter adds richness without feeling heavy, while the beef provides protein and depth. Rotini pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful and satisfying. If you’re looking for a quick dinner that feels indulgent but still practical, this recipe is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Beef & Rotini Pasta
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Rich garlic butter flavor without heavy sauce
- Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
- Family-friendly and filling
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- Easy to customize with add-ins
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Quick and Reliable
Because everything cooks in one skillet and one pot, this recipe comes together fast. As a result, it’s ideal for nights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Big Flavor, Simple Ingredients
Garlic, butter, beef, and pasta may sound simple, but together they create a deeply satisfying flavor. In addition, the ingredients are easy to find and budget-friendly.
Great for Leftovers
This pasta reheats beautifully. In fact, the flavors often deepen after sitting, making leftovers just as good—if not better—the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Rotini pasta
- Ground beef
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, finely diced (optional)
- Beef broth or pasta water
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Italian seasoning or dried parsley
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Garlic Butter Beef & Rotini Pasta (Step by Step)
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
Step 2: Brown the beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Break it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease and set aside.
Step 3: Make the garlic butter base
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion (if using) and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Combine beef and sauce
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add beef broth or reserved pasta water, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer briefly.
Step 5: Add pasta
Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the garlic butter sauce.
Step 6: Finish with cheese
Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and toss gently until melted and well combined.
Step 7: Serve
Taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 480–560
- Protein: 22–28g
- Carbohydrates: 40–45g
- Fat: 24–30g
- Fiber: 2–4g
- Sodium: Moderate
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Beef & Rotini Pasta
- Salt pasta water generously for flavor
- Drain beef well to avoid greasiness
- Use fresh garlic for best taste
- Don’t overcook the garlic—it burns fast
- Add pasta water gradually to loosen sauce
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for smooth melting
Variations & Substitutions
- Use ground turkey instead of beef
- Add spinach or kale at the end
- Swap rotini for penne or fusilli
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers
- Make it spicy with extra red pepper flakes
- Finish with lemon zest for brightness
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Beef & Rotini Pasta
- Simple green salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted broccoli or green beans
- Caesar salad
- Steamed vegetables
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta
- Burning the garlic
- Using too much butter
- Skipping pasta water
- Under-seasoning
Storing & Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container
- Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave
- Add a splash of water or broth when reheating
- Avoid reheating multiple times
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Beef & Rotini Pasta is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible comfort food. Savory, buttery, and endlessly satisfying, this dish is perfect for weeknights, leftovers, and everything in between. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner menu.
General Information
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Pasta
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make Garlic Butter Beef & Rotini Pasta ahead of time?
Yes. You can make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
2. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Rotini is ideal because it holds the garlic butter sauce well, but penne or fusilli also work.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey is a great lighter substitute and still absorbs flavor well.
4. How do I keep the pasta from drying out?
Reserve pasta water and add a splash when reheating or mixing the pasta.
5. Can I make this dish creamy?
Yes. Add a little heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamy version.
6. What kind of butter should I use?
Unsalted butter works best so you can control the salt level.
7. Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini work very well.
8. Is Garlic Butter Beef & Rotini Pasta kid-friendly?
Yes. It’s mild, savory, and usually a hit with kids.
9. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes. Add red pepper flakes or chili oil for extra heat.
10. What cheese works best for this dish?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds the best flavor and melts smoothly.
11. How long does this pasta last in the fridge?
Stored properly, it lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
12. Can I freeze Garlic Butter Beef & Rotini Pasta?
Freezing is not recommended, as the butter sauce may separate.
13. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of water or broth.
14. Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, but the flavor will be lighter and less rich.
15. Should I drain the ground beef?
Yes. Draining excess grease prevents the dish from becoming oily.
16. Can I use pre-minced garlic?
You can, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
17. What seasoning pairs best with this pasta?
Italian seasoning, parsley, and black pepper work perfectly.
18. Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be if you use gluten-free pasta.
19. Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Just use a large skillet or cook in batches.
20. Is Garlic Butter Beef & Rotini Pasta filling enough as a main dish?
Yes. With beef and pasta, it’s a complete and satisfying meal.