Weeknight dinners call for something quick, easy, and delicious, and this creamy rotini pasta with beef and shrimp fits the bill perfectly. Combining rich flavors and a satisfying texture, this dish offers a delightful twist on classic pasta. Perfect for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet simple to prepare, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Steps
- Cook the gluten-free rotini according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown 1 pound of ground turkey over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add 24 ounces of your preferred spaghetti sauce to the cooked turkey, stirring well to combine.
- Optionally, finely chop 1 teaspoon of onion and add it to the sauce mixture for extra flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (about 175°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and the turkey-sauce mixture, stirring to mix evenly.
- If you prefer a cheesier dish, stir in 1 cup of cheese with the pasta mixture; otherwise, skip this step.
- Top the pasta mixture with 2 cups of shredded cheese, spreading it evenly over the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces gluten-free rotini pasta
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 24 ounces jar of spaghetti sauce
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped onion
- 2 to 3 cups shredded cheese
FAQ
- Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute regular rotini with gluten-free rotini. Keep in mind that gluten-free pasta often comes in different package sizes, so you may need to adjust the quantity accordingly.
- Is it possible to replace the ground beef with another type of meat?
- Absolutely, you can use ground turkey or even chicken as an alternative to beef. Just make sure to adjust the quantity to balance with the amount of pasta you are using.
- What if my jar of spaghetti sauce is a different size?
- Many pasta sauces come in 24 oz jars, which is typical. If your jar is a different size, you can adjust the amount of sauce to your taste. Using a bit more or less won’t drastically affect the dish.
- How much cheese should I use for a cheesy topping?
- The recipe suggests 2 cups of cheese for the topping, but if you prefer a cheesier dish, you can add a third cup. You might also consider mixing some cheese into the pasta before adding the rest on top.
- What is the best baking temperature for this dish?
- Baking at 350°F is generally suitable for this dish. If you bake it at a higher temperature, like 425°F, be cautious as it may dry out the dish.
Tips
- Use a full pound of ground meat instead of just half a pound for better balance with the pasta.
- If you prefer a cheesier dish, consider stirring in an extra cup of cheese with the pasta before topping it with the remaining cheese.
- Adjust the baking temperature to 350°F to avoid drying out the dish, as higher temperatures like 425°F may cause it to dry out.
- Ensure your choice of pasta sauce complements the dish, as the flavor will predominantly depend on the sauce you select.
Equipment
- Baking Dish – Depending on what you have at home, you might need a specific size for baking pasta dishes.
- Cheese Grater – If the recipe calls for freshly grated cheese and you don’t have one.
- Oven Thermometer – Useful for ensuring your oven is at the correct temperature, especially if you are adjusting from the suggested 350 to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
