28 Shares

Create a flavorful Ground Beef Pasta with tender Rotini, a rich tomato-based sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and aromatic seasonings. This quick and simple dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is easily customizable with various proteins and pasta options. Learn how to make a comforting meal that’s family-friendly and packed with delicious ingredients.

Ingredients

1 ½ lbs. ground beef (85% lean)
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon kosher salt
3 tablespoons flour (optional, helps thicken the sauce)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
16 oz. tomato sauce
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup half-and-half (equal parts cream and milk)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ pound Rotini pasta

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Shred the cheddar cheese and set it aside. Allow the half-and-half to come to room temperature to prevent curdling when added to the sauce.
Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onions halfway through and sauté until softened. Drain excess grease.
Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Mix in the salt, Worcestershire sauce, and flour. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Prepare the Sauce: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, using a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Add the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes.
Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Rotini pasta according to package instructions (about 7 minutes), then drain.
Incorporate Half-and-Half and Cheese: Slowly stir the half-and-half into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and fully combined.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Serve warm with garlic bread or your favorite side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep and cook time.
Family-Friendly: A comforting meal that kids and adults both enjoy.
Versatile: Works well with different types of pasta or added veggies.
Affordable: Made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients.

Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature half-and-half and cheese to prevent curdling or clumping.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan for a unique twist.
Pasta Cooking: Undercook the pasta slightly if you plan to mix it with the sauce and simmer longer.
Thicker Sauce: Add a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water if the sauce needs more thickening.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
Pasta Choices: Substitute Rotini with penne, fusilli, or macaroni.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and store it separately from the pasta. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this dish?
Freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of half-and-half?
Use equal parts milk and heavy cream, or opt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a different flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Bread: Pair with cheesy garlic bread for a classic combination.
Side Salad: Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens for balance.
Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted zucchini, broccoli, or bell peppers as a side dish.

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Ground Beef Pasta recipe for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal!