Introduction
Discover a truly comforting and straightforward rotini pasta recipe that simplifies dinner time. This fantastic one-pot wonder brings together savory ground beef and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich tomato sauce. It’s perfect for quick, flavorful weeknight meals, proving that simple ingredients can yield big taste. Get ready to make this family-friendly dish tonight and add it to your regular rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Rotini Pasta Recipe
- Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Quick Dinner: Enjoy a hearty meal ready in under 30 minutes.
- Hearty & Satisfying: This dish is packed with comforting flavors and textures.
- Family Favorite: Its universally loved taste appeals to both kids and adults.
- Rich Flavor: A deliciously savory tomato beef sauce coats every spiral of pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather your simple pantry staples to create this delicious rotini pasta recipe. You’ll love how easily these ingredients transform into a satisfying meal.
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups uncooked rotini pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- Pepper (optional, to taste)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil (optional, for serving)
Notes & Substitutions
For the lean ground beef, choose 85-90% lean to minimize excess fat, or opt for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor. Tomato paste is crucial for deep, concentrated tomato flavor. Always use fresh garlic cloves for the best aromatic base; a good garlic press makes quick work of mincing. Onion powder provides a quick, consistent flavor boost. A touch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. Dried oregano and Italian seasoning are pantry staples, but you can swap them for fresh herbs by tripling the amount. Adjust salt to taste, remembering different salts vary in salinity. Crushed red pepper flakes add a delightful, optional hint of warmth. Beef broth adds rich flavor and is essential for cooking the pasta. Crushed tomatoes form the hearty base of your sauce. Uncooked rotini pasta with its spiral shape is perfect for catching all the sauce, but fusilli or penne also work. Finish with creamy shredded mozzarella for that irresistible cheesy pull. Add pepper, parmesan, and basil as optional garnishes.
Essential Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools for this straightforward rotini pasta recipe.
- A large soup pot or Dutch oven (at least 5-quart capacity) is essential for one-pot cooking.
- A wooden spoon or meat masher helps brown the beef evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons ensure precise ingredient amounts.
- An optional garlic press speeds up garlic preparation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this easy one-pot rotini pasta recipe is a breeze with these clear steps. Follow along for a delicious meal in minutes!
Add the ground beef to a soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook until just browned, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks for about 7-8 minutes. For food safety, the USDA recommends cooking ground meat to 160°F. Spoon out any excess fat if needed, ensuring a leaner sauce.
Stir in the tomato paste and minced garlic. Cook this aromatic mixture for about one minute, allowing the flavors to bloom. This step enhances the depth of your sauce.
Next, stir in the onion powder, sugar, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and the optional crushed red pepper. Mix well to combine all the spices with the beef.
Pour the beef broth and crushed tomatoes into the pot. Increase the heat to high, bringing the entire mixture to a rolling boil.
Once it’s boiling vigorously, add in the uncooked rotini pasta. Cook for 12 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You will need to turn the heat down at some point to maintain a constant simmer (medium or even medium-low) so it’s bubbling steadily but not boiling too aggressively.
Turn the burner off, but leave the pot on the warm stovetop. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top of the pasta. Close the lid tightly for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into gooey perfection and more of the liquid to absorb into the pasta.
Finally, gently toss the pasta and sauce so the melted mozzarella is fully stirred in. Taste and season with pepper and additional salt if needed. Serve immediately with freshly grated parmesan and fresh basil if desired for an extra touch of flavor.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieve perfect results with these smart tips for your rotini pasta creation.
Adjust the liquid as needed; some pastas absorb more than others, so add a splash of broth if it looks too dry. Maintain a gentle simmer throughout cooking, as a rapid boil can make the pasta mushy or stick. Always taste and adjust seasoning frequently before serving. Prevent mushy pasta by checking for al dente doneness slightly before the recommended cook time. Ensure the cheese melts evenly by distributing it across the top before covering. Use a wide pot for even cooking and easier stirring of your rotini pasta.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty rotini pasta dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides.
- Serve it with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up every drop of sauce.
- A crisp, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
- Add a simple cucumber-tomato salad for a burst of freshness and color.
Variations to Try
Experiment with these ideas to customize your rotini pasta meal.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Sauté a handful of fresh spinach or diced zucchini with the beef.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preference, from mild to fiery.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar, provolone, or a zesty Italian blend instead of mozzarella.
- Meat Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Pasta Shapes: Penne, medium shells, or campanelle also work beautifully in this recipe, holding the sauce well.
Storage & Reheating
Properly storing your leftover rotini pasta ensures you can enjoy it again.
Refrigerate any leftovers promptly in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Be aware that the pasta will continue to absorb sauce as it sits, making it thicker. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through. This recipe is not recommended for freezing, as the pasta texture can become undesirable upon thawing.
Nutrition Information
Here are the approximate nutritional values for one serving of this delicious rotini pasta recipe.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 20g |
Disclaimer: These are approximate values and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This information is provided for general guidance only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Discover more about this easy rotini pasta recipe with these common questions.
- What is rotini pasta? Rotini is a type of corkscrew-shaped pasta, known for its ability to capture and hold sauces beautifully. Its twists make every bite flavorful. To learn more about its origins and characteristics, explore the TasteAtlas guide to Rotini pasta.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely! Triple the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried, and stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking for best flavor.
- How do I prevent the pasta from sticking? Stirring occasionally while the pasta cooks in the sauce is key, ensuring adequate liquid covers the pasta.
- Can I make this recipe spicier? Yes, you can easily increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce with the tomatoes for extra heat.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping? While delicious, the pasta will absorb much of the sauce over time, making it thicker. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still tasty.
Conclusion
This easy one-pot rotini pasta recipe truly delivers on flavor and convenience, making it an ideal choice for any busy weeknight. Its comforting appeal and simple steps mean you can enjoy a hearty, homemade meal without fuss. Don’t hesitate to personalize it with your favorite additions and make it your own. If you love this recipe, please leave a rating and share your culinary creations with us!