When you’re craving a cozy, comforting pasta dish on a busy weeknight, this Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage, and Spinach hits all the right notes. It brings together juicy meatballs, tender pasta, and a creamy garlic butter sauce that’s rich and velvety with just the right amount of heat. The rotini’s ridges perfectly catch all the savory goodness, and the addition of fresh spinach adds a welcome balance to the richness.

What makes this dish so special is how quickly it comes together while still tasting like something that simmered all day. The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage creates a flavorful base, while the garlicky butter sauce adds indulgence without being heavy. This pasta is one of those meals that will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even licking the plate.

What Kind of Rotini Should I Use?

Rotini is the ideal shape for creamy sauces because of its spiral structure that grabs and holds onto flavor. For this recipe, standard dry rotini works great, but feel free to try whole wheat or even chickpea rotini for added fiber or a gluten-free option. If you’re feeling indulgent, fresh pasta from the refrigerated section adds a slightly richer texture.

Ingredients for the Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage and Spinach

Rotini Pasta – The corkscrew shape is key for soaking up the buttery garlic sauce.

Ground Beef – Adds richness and meaty flavor to the base of the dish.

Italian Sausage – Brings in herby spice and depth. Mild or spicy both work depending on your preference.

Fresh Spinach – Wilts beautifully into the hot pasta, adding a burst of green and freshness.

Garlic – The star of the sauce, delivering punchy aroma and flavor.

Butter – Creates the luscious base for the sauce and complements the garlic.

Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess without overpowering the garlic.

Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce for nutty, salty depth.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional but great for a kick of heat.

Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to balance all the flavors.

How To Make the Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage and Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Rotini

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage together. Break the meat into small chunks and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base

Add butter directly to the skillet with the cooked meat. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and thickened slightly. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Pasta

Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook just until wilted. Toss in the cooked rotini and a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the garlic butter sauce. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

How to Serve and Store This Flavor-Packed Pasta

This dish is best served right away, fresh off the stove, when the sauce is silky and the spinach is just tender. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad on the side.

To store leftovers, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of Italian sausage should I use?

Either mild or spicy Italian sausage works great. Use whatever fits your flavor preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the pasta and meat mixture ahead of time. Store the components separately and combine with the sauce just before serving.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

Half and half can be used in a pinch, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. The texture may change slightly, so reheat with a splash of cream and stir gently.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the beef and sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or meat-free crumbles for a hearty substitute.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini is a hit at your table, check out more irresistible pasta recipes:

Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce for a comfort-filled cheesy bite.
Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta when you want something quick but deeply satisfying.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli for a one-pot creamy dream.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta if you crave decadence with a twist.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for something equally cozy and flavorful.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it whenever you need an easy, hearty meal.

And if you give it a try, I want to hear from you! Did you spice it up? Add mushrooms or swap the sausage? Let me know in the comments.

Follow me on Pinterest @LifeWithNinaRecipes for daily dinner inspiration and more flavorful comfort food ideas.

Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage and Spinach

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Print Recipe

Description

This Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage, and Spinach is the ultimate comfort food for busy evenings. Juicy, seasoned meats and tender pasta are tossed in a creamy garlic butter sauce, finished with fresh spinach and Parmesan. It’s a rich, hearty dish that comes together fast and fills the table with smiles.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and Italian sausage together. Crumble the meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Add butter to the skillet and melt. Stir in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce is creamy and thickened slightly. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

5. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Add in the cooked rotini and toss everything together. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

6. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.