Creamy Beef Pasta Rotini

Creamy beef pasta is one of those dishes that never fails to bring comfort to the dinner table after a long day Ground beef and rotini pasta combine with a rich cheese sauce for a satisfying meal that is as easy as it is delicious Thanks to the one pot method there is hardly any clean up which makes it perfect for busy weeknights

I tried this creamy beef pasta the first time when I was low on groceries and the kids instantly asked for seconds Now it is our emergency comfort meal and we never get tired of it

Ingredients

• Rotini pasta: The spiral shape helps sauce cling to every bite and cooks evenly in one pot Look for pasta made from durum wheat for the best texture
• Ground beef: Choose eighty five or ninety percent lean ground beef for rich flavor without too much grease
• Tomato paste: Adds deep umami base and a bit of tang Look for a thick and rich paste
• Minced garlic: Freshly minced cloves give depth to the whole dish
• Diced white onion: Adds subtle sweetness and lays the flavor foundation Pick firm and glossy onions
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory kick and balances the creaminess Use a quality brand for depth
• Red pepper flakes: Brings gentle heat Adjust this to your spice preference
• Heavy whipping cream: Makes the sauce extra smooth and luxurious Choose full fat for best texture
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce for gooeyness and tang Use sharp cheddar and grate your own for better melt
• Beef broth: Cooks the pasta and builds beefy flavor Low sodium works best so you can control saltiness
• Cajun seasoning: Delivers boldness and a touch of smoky spice Use a blend with paprika and garlic if possible
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors Adjust as needed after cooking

Step by Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Cook ground beef over medium heat breaking it up with a spoon until it is fully browned and no pink remains This should take about six to eight minutes Drain any excess oil so the dish is not greasy

Season and Soften Aromatics:

Stir in the cajun seasoning diced white onion and minced garlic Keep the heat at medium low Sauté for five minutes until onions turn translucent and the garlic smells fragrant

Build the Base:

Add red pepper flakes Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste Stir thoroughly The beef mixture should take on a deeper reddish hue as it absorbs the flavors

Cook the Pasta:

Pour in the rotini pasta and beef broth Stir to combine and make sure all the pasta is submerged Cover with a lid Simmer on medium low for fifteen to eighteen minutes Stir occasionally to prevent sticking Pasta should be just soft enough to eat but not mushy

Add Cream and Cheese:

Remove the lid and pour in the heavy whipping cream followed by the shredded cheddar Stir gently so the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce Do not rush this step for the creamiest result

Finish and Serve:

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to bring all the flavors together Spoon into bowls and enjoy right away while creamy

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My favorite part is always the cheddar cheese because it stretches in gooey ribbons My daughter once asked for a second helping because she loved how the cheese strings looked and it made the night extra fun for all of us

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep very well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To reheat add a splash of beef broth or water and stir gently over medium heat until creamy again If freezing let the pasta cool completely portion into containers and freeze for up to three months

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap rotini for penne or fusilli if needed Ground turkey works in place of ground beef for a lighter option If you do not have heavy cream use half and half but expect a slightly lighter sauce For extra vegetables try stirring in spinach or peas with the cream

Serving Suggestions

This creamy pasta is filling on its own but I love pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted green beans Garlic bread on the side is always a hit If you are feeling fancy sprinkle extra cheese and chopped parsley on top just before bringing it to the table

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A Bit of History

One pot pasta recipes have their roots in home cooks saving cooking time and effort The creamy beef pasta you see today is a fun twist on classic hamburger helper types but with fresher flavors and heartier texture Every family adapts it in their own way so do not be afraid to make it your own

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, penne or fusilli work well, but adjust cooking time to ensure the pasta cooks through.

→ Is it possible to use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely, ground turkey is a lighter alternative and pairs nicely with the creamy sauce.

→ What cheese melts best in this dish?

Shredded cheddar creates a smooth, flavorful sauce, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be substituted.

→ How do I make the sauce thicker?

Allow the pasta to simmer uncovered for a few minutes after adding the cream and cheese, stirring until it thickens.

→ How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes and Cajun seasoning?

The spice level is mild to moderate. For less heat, reduce or omit red pepper flakes or use mild Cajun seasoning.