If you’ve been searching for a quick and delicious dinner idea that delivers the robust flavors of your favorite Italian bistro, look no further than this Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage, and Spinach. This delectable dish perfectly marries a creamy garlic butter sauce with tender rotini pasta, creating a hearty meal that satisfies every craving. Not only is it simple enough for a busy weeknight, but it’s also customizable based on whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it ideal for those spontaneous dinner decisions.
Imagine diving into a bowl of perfectly cooked rotini, all enveloped in rich, buttery goodness complemented by the crunch of fresh spinach and the savory notes of both ground beef and Italian sausage. Each bite is a comforting reminder of why Italian cuisine is beloved worldwide. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, feed your family, or simply treat yourself to a home-cooked meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Plus, the combination of bold garlic, creaminess from heavy cream, and the hint of warmth from red pepper flakes makes this dish not only satisfying but also fantastic for any palate. Fast, flavorful, and fulfilling, it’s time to whip up this Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini and enjoy a delightful dining experience right at home!
Why You’ll Love This Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini
- Quick and Easy: Ready to serve in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Comforting Flavors: Combines rich garlic butter, creamy sauce, and hearty meats.
- Customizable: Easily substitute or add protein and vegetables based on your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that pleases both kids and adults alike with its delicious taste.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required; everything comes together seamlessly in one pan.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making your Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini, start by preparing your kitchen and gathering the necessary tools. Ensure you have a large pot for boiling the pasta, a colander for draining it afterward, and a sizable skillet or frying pan for cooking the meat and sauce. A wooden spoon is also handy for stirring, while a sharp knife and cutting board will make it easy to mince the garlic and handle any other ingredients.
When it comes to workspace organization, keep it clutter-free. Lay out all your ingredients and tools on the counter; this not only helps in measuring accurately but also ensures you won’t miss any crucial steps while cooking. A quick tip: have your pasta water ready to go before you bring it to a boil; this way, you can seamlessly transition to cooking your rotini as you prep the meat and sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- ½ lb ground beef
- ½ lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Rotini
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, carefully add the rotini pasta and cook it until it reaches an al dente texture. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes, but be sure to check the package instructions for specific timing. Once cooked, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meats
In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, ensuring to break up the meat as it cooks. Stir occasionally and allow it to brown evenly, which should take around 8 minutes. After the meats are thoroughly cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet to ensure your sauce doesn’t become overly greasy.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Spinach
Once the meat is cooked and drained, use a spatula to push the meat to one side of the skillet. In the cleared space, add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it burn. After, add in the fresh spinach, stirring for 1–2 minutes until it wilts down to a nice tender consistency.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream into the skillet, seasoning the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for that extra kick. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for 2–3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. This creamy concoction is the heart of your dish, bringing all the flavors together.
Step 5: Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add the reserved rotini to the skillet and gently toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the delicious sauce. If desired, stir in shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese for an extra layer of creamy flavor. If you find the sauce too thick, just mix in a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is combined, remove from heat and serve hot. Consider garnishing with additional cheese or sprinkling fresh parsley on top for added color and flavor. Your Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini is now ready to be devoured!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the ground beef and Italian sausage with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, add shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor. You might also try kale instead of spinach.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as Italian seasoning, thyme, or even a splash of white wine for greater depth in flavor.
Cooking Notes
- For best results, don’t overcook the rotini. Al dente offers a better texture and prevents it from becoming mushy once combined with the sauce.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic depending on your preference—more for garlic lovers, less for a milder flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad for a fresh crunch.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce and make the meal even more satisfying.
Tips
- To save time, you can prep your ingredients ahead of time by chopping the garlic and measuring out the cream and spinach.
- If you want this recipe to be vegetarian, simply omit the meat and replace it with more vegetables or protein alternatives like tofu or chickpeas.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular rotini with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How can I store leftovers?
The leftover dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to rejuvenate the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the meat and sauce ahead of time and simply combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
What can I serve with garlic butter rotini?
Consider serving a side of garlic bread, a light salad, or roasted veggies to round out your meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage, and Spinach is not just a dish; it’s a satisfying experience that can fit effortlessly into your busy schedule. Its creamy sauce, savory meats, and delightful pasta truly encapsulate comfort food at its best. We hope you give this recipe a try and explore various customizations along the way. Your family and friends will surely appreciate a hearty meal made with love—and don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you’ve come up with in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage, and Spinach
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A satisfying experience that combines creamy sauce, savory meats, and delightful rotini pasta.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- ½ lb ground beef
- ½ lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, carefully add the rotini pasta and cook it until it reaches an al dente texture. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes, but be sure to check the package instructions for specific timing. Once cooked, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, ensuring to break up the meat as it cooks. Stir occasionally and allow it to brown evenly, which should take around 8 minutes. After the meats are thoroughly cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet to ensure your sauce doesn’t become overly greasy.
- Once the meat is cooked and drained, use a spatula to push the meat to one side of the skillet. In the cleared space, add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it burn. After, add in the fresh spinach, stirring for 1–2 minutes until it wilts down to a nice tender consistency.
- Pour in the heavy cream into the skillet, seasoning the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for that extra kick. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for 2–3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. This creamy concoction is the heart of your dish, bringing all the flavors together.
- Add the reserved rotini to the skillet and gently toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the delicious sauce. If desired, stir in shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese for an extra layer of creamy flavor. If you find the sauce too thick, just mix in a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
- Once everything is combined, remove from heat and serve hot. Consider garnishing with additional cheese or sprinkling fresh parsley on top for added color and flavor. Your Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini is now ready to be devoured!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 28 g