Name: Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage and Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 oz rotini pasta; 1/2 lb ground beef; 1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot); 4 cups fresh spinach; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

If you’re looking for a dinner that checks every box—comforting, quick, flavorful, and family-approved—this Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage and Spinach is exactly what your kitchen needs. This pasta dish comes together in about 30 minutes, yet it tastes like you’ve been simmering it all day. It’s layered with garlicky butter, juicy ground beef, bold Italian sausage, and ribbons of tender spinach, all twirled into perfectly cooked rotini.

The garlic butter acts as a rich base that coats every noodle in savory goodness. Add in the umami depth of browned meats and the fresh earthiness of spinach, and you get a one-pan wonder that delivers on both flavor and simplicity. This recipe feels indulgent without being heavy, and it’s the kind of meal everyone at the table will go back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini

What makes this dish so lovable is its perfect balance between hearty and wholesome. The rotini captures every bit of garlic butter sauce, while the combination of ground beef and sausage adds a rich meatiness that satisfies any craving. Spinach brings freshness and a boost of greens to round it out. Plus, it’s a weeknight warrior that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

It’s adaptable too. Whether you need to stretch the meal to feed a few more mouths or want to spice it up with a sprinkle of chili flakes or Parmesan, this recipe plays well with your pantry and preferences. The leftovers? They might just be even better the next day.

What Kind of Rotini Should I Use?

Rotini comes in different varieties, and the good news is you can’t really go wrong. Classic semolina rotini is what most people reach for—it holds its shape well and has the texture that clings beautifully to garlic butter and meat juices.

If you’re aiming to make it gluten-free, there are excellent rotini alternatives made from chickpeas, rice, or lentils. Whole wheat rotini adds a subtle nuttiness and extra fiber, while tricolor versions bring a touch of vibrancy to the plate. Choose what fits your pantry and your palate.

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

This dish thrives on simple, staple ingredients that bring big flavor without fuss. Each component plays an important role, and together they create a comforting, well-balanced weeknight meal.

Rotini pasta
Ground beef
Italian sausage (mild or hot)
Fresh spinach
Garlic
Butter
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Parmesan cheese (optional)

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

Step 1: Boil the Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to package instructions 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 heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking them apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Butter

Lower the heat and stir in the butter and minced garlic. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the spinach cook down and blend the flavors.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rotini to the skillet, tossing everything together so the garlic butter and meat coat the pasta evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve warm.

How to Serve and Store This Pasta Dish

This garlic butter rotini dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but it also works beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. It makes a satisfying dinner for four to six people, depending on serving size and sides. The balance of pasta, meat, and greens gives it a complete-meal feel without needing any extras.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. The flavors meld even more after resting, making this a meal you may love even more the next day.

What to Serve With Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini

Classic Caprese Salad

The fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil bring a bright contrast to the rich, garlicky pasta.

Garlic Bread

Because who can resist more garlic? A crispy, buttery garlic bread takes this meal to comfort-food heaven.

Roasted Asparagus

A crisp, earthy veggie side that roasts quickly in the oven while your pasta cooks.

Caesar Salad

The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons play so well against the savory pasta.

Lemon-Butter Green Beans

Adds a citrusy pop to cut through the richness of the dish.

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery green salad with a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette makes for a refreshing bite.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

Serve smaller portions of the rotini alongside these flavorful meatballs for a dinner spread.

Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls

For those who love a little heat and crunch, this unexpected combo can turn a pasta night into a party.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re a fan of bold, flavorful pasta dishes like this Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini, here are some other delicious dinners to check out next:

Try the ultra-creamy Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta when you’re craving a meat-free yet indulgent meal.
Dig into One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for another comforting bowl that saves on dishes.
If you love greens in your pasta, the Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes and Mushrooms delivers on flavor and nutrition.
Switch up your noodles with the cozy Creamy Mushroom Ravioli for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Want a touch of heat? The Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta offers bold spices and smoky sausage in every bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use hot or mild sausage? Did you sneak in extra veggies?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and feel-good comfort meals on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy favorite!

Conclusion

Weeknight Garlic Butter Rotini with Beef, Italian Sausage and Spinach proves that weeknight dinners don’t have to be boring or complicated. With a short list of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can have a satisfying, flavorful pasta dish that hits all the right notes. It’s comfort food you’ll come back to again and again.