🍝💰 $10 One-Pan Rotini Pasta
A simple, cheesy ground beef pasta made with pantry staples.
This One-Pan Rotini Pasta is proof that a delicious dinner doesn’t have to cost a lot. Using basic ingredients like ground beef, pasta, jarred sauce, and shredded cheese, you can create a rich and comforting meal for about $10.
Everything comes together quickly in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor.
⏱ Recipe Snapshot
Prep Time: 5–10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Servings: 4–6
🛒 Ingredients
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1 lb rotini pasta
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1 lb ground beef
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1 bottle Ragu pasta sauce
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4 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or blend)
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½–1 cup reserved pasta water
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Parsley, chopped for garnish
Seasonings
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Cajun seasoning
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Garlic powder
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Onion powder
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Black pepper
(Season to taste.)
👩🏽🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Cook rotini pasta according to package directions.
Before draining, reserve ½–1 cup of the pasta water.
Drain pasta and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
Season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Build the Sauce
Add the Ragu sauce to the skillet with the beef.
Stir well and let simmer for a few minutes.
Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
4. Combine the Pasta
Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet and mix until evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Add the Cheese
Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
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Garlic bread
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Side salad
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Steamed broccoli
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Roasted vegetables
🔥 Flavor Tip
Adding pasta water helps the sauce cling to the noodles and creates a smoother, richer texture.
💛 Why You'll Love This Recipe
✔ Budget-friendly dinner
✔ Pantry staple ingredients
✔ One pan for easy cleanup
✔ Family-sized portions