Weeknight dinners just got easier (and tastier!) with this incredibly simple Creamy Italian Ground Beef & Rotini recipe. This one-pan wonder requires minimal cleanup and delivers maximum flavor, making it the perfect solution for busy families or anyone craving a comforting, satisfying meal without the fuss. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this dish comes together quickly using pantry staples you likely already have. The rich, creamy sauce perfectly coats the tender ground beef and perfectly cooked rotini, creating a dish the whole family will adore.
Imagine a symphony of savory Italian flavors dancing on your tongue: the umami richness of ground beef, the tang of tomato, the subtle sweetness of garlic, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce. Ready to experience this culinary delight for yourself? Let's dive into the easy step-by-step instructions to create your own unforgettable Creamy Italian Ground Beef & Rotini.
Tools Needed
- Large skillet
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: 1 pound
- Vadilla complete seasoning: 1-2 teaspoons
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Diced Vidalia onion: 1/2 cup
- Roasted red peppers: 1 jar
- Whole peeled tomatoes: null
- Minced garlic: 1 tablespoon
- Beef broth: 1 1/2 - 2 cups
- Better than bouillon: 1 teaspoon (mixed with 2 cups water)
- Rotini pasta: 8 oz
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Parmesan cheese: 5 oz
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Brown the Beef and Sauté Onions
- In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of lean ground beef with 1-2 teaspoons of Vadilla complete seasoning and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
- Add 1/2 cup of diced Vidalia onions and cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease using paper towels.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper.
Step 2. Simmer the Pasta
- Add 1 jar of roasted red peppers, whole peeled tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, and 1 1/2-2 cups of beef broth (or equivalent).
- Add 8 oz of rotini pasta, stir, and ensure enough liquid (add more broth if needed).
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until pasta is cooked through.
Step 3. Create the Creamy Sauce
- Stir in 5 oz of Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir until well combined.
- Cover and let sit for about 10 minutes to thicken.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Feel free to adjust seasonings to your preference.
- Don't dump grease down the drain; use paper towels to absorb it.
- Check your pasta's cooking time on the box and adjust accordingly.
- You can substitute other types of pasta or cheeses.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different pasta?
Yes! Penne, fusilli, or even small shells would work well. Choose a pasta that holds its shape in the sauce.
2. How can I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe reheats well! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Creamy Italian Ground Beef & Rotini recipe is a true weeknight winner, offering big flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy the delicious simplicity of this one-pan wonder, perfect for busy schedules and hungry families. So grab your ingredients and get ready to experience a comforting and satisfying meal that's sure to become a new favorite.