18 Delicious Rotelle Recipes Perfect for Weeknights

Carmen Eldridge

April 13, 2025

When it comes to weeknight meals, a delicious rotelle recipe can be a lifesaver. This classic Italian pasta dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and indulgent or light and fresh, there’s a rotelle recipe out there for you.

In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering rotelle recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic combinations like garlic parmesan and tomato basil sauce, to more adventurous options like spicy sausage and roasted red pepper alfredo, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rotelle Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rotelle Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and tender rotelle noodles.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz (340g) rotelle pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) unsalted butter
– 2 cups (475ml) heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup (115g) shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic in butter until fragrant.
4. Add heavy cream and thyme; bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked pasta with creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional parmesan cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spicy Sausage and Rotelle Tomato Bake

Spicy Sausage and Rotelle Tomato Bake
A hearty, one-pot dish that combines the spicy kick of sausage with the comforting warmth of rotelle pasta and juicy tomatoes.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup rotelle pasta
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic to skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, rotelle pasta, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Rotelle with Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo Sauce

Rotelle with Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo Sauce
This creamy pasta dish is a twist on the classic, featuring roasted red peppers blended into a rich and velvety sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz rotelle pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss red bell peppers with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a blender or food processor, puree roasted red peppers with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Lemon Butter Shrimp and Rotelle

Lemon Butter Shrimp and Rotelle
A bright and flavorful twist on classic shrimp pasta, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with a tangy lemon butter sauce and served over rotelle pasta for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 oz rotelle pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low and add lemon juice, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce if it becomes too thick. Toss cooked shrimp with the lemon butter sauce.
6. Serve shrimp over rotelle pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Rotelle Primavera with Fresh Vegetables

Rotelle Primavera with Fresh Vegetables
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and nutritious pasta dish, bursting with colorful vegetables and tender rotelle. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz rotelle pasta
– 2 cups mixed fresh vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables, garlic, and vegetable broth to the skillet. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Combine cooked pasta with vegetable mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cheesy Rotelle Casserole with Ground Beef

Cheesy Rotelle Casserole with Ground Beef
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. This recipe combines ground beef, rotelle pasta, and a blend of cheeses for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup rotelle pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Rotelle Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Rotelle Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines the classic combination of pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and rotelle pasta.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. rotelle pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the rotelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the pesto, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the pesto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Rotelle with Mushroom and Spinach Cream Sauce

Rotelle with Mushroom and Spinach Cream Sauce
This comforting pasta dish combines the flavors of sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, and a rich cream sauce to create a satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend dinner.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz rotelle pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender. Add spinach leaves; cook until wilted.
3. Stir in heavy cream and dried basil. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Baked Rotelle with Ricotta and Mozzarella

Baked Rotelle with Ricotta and Mozzarella
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the creaminess of ricotta and mozzarella cheese with the comfort of baked pasta.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz rotelle pasta
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Add cooked rotelle pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and season with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top (if using) and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Rotelle in Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce

Rotelle in Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
This classic Italian-inspired pasta dish combines tender rotelle with a rich and creamy tomato basil sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its flavorful combination of fresh herbs and tangy tomatoes, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound rotelle pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in chopped basil leaves. Combine cooked pasta and tomato basil sauce; toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Garlic Butter Rotelle with Grilled Chicken

Garlic Butter Rotelle with Grilled Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of garlic butter and grilled chicken with a classic Italian pasta dish, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz rotelle pasta
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add grilled chicken to the skillet and toss with garlic butter sauce.
5. Combine cooked rotelle pasta with chicken and garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using) on top.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Rotelle with Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce

Rotelle with Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines tender rotelle pasta with a spicy arrabbiata sauce.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz rotelle pasta
– 2 cups arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt, to taste
– Crushed red pepper flakes, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat arrabbiata sauce in a large skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
3. Add cooked rotelle pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and parsley on top of the pasta. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Rotelle Carbonara with Pancetta and Peas

Rotelle Carbonara with Pancetta and Peas
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the rich flavors of pancetta, peas, and eggs to create a creamy and indulgent meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz (225g) rotelle pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 1 cup (115g) frozen peas
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add frozen peas to the same skillet and cook until thawed.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese.
5. Combine cooked pasta, pancetta mixture, and pea mixture in the bowl with egg mixture. Toss everything together until the eggs are fully incorporated and the sauce is creamy.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Rotelle with Roasted Garlic and Olive Oil

Rotelle with Roasted Garlic and Olive Oil
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic with the simplicity of olive oil, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The sweetness of the garlic pairs beautifully with the slightly nutty rotelle pasta.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz rotelle pasta
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic clove, exposing the inside. Place on a piece of aluminum foil with a drizzle of olive oil. Fold the foil to create a package and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
3. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic and remaining olive oil. Stir well to combine.
5. Add cooked rotelle pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlicky olive oil mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Rotelle and Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Rotelle and Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
A hearty and satisfying pasta dish that combines tender meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked rotelle.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz (225g) rotelle pasta
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cups (475ml) marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rotelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Add marinara sauce to the cooked pasta, tossing to combine.
7. Serve meatballs on top of the pasta, and enjoy!

Cooking Time:

– Meatballs: 15-18 minutes
– Rotelle pasta: 8-10 minutes

Rotelle with Broccoli and Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Rotelle with Broccoli and Cheddar Cheese Sauce
A comforting pasta dish packed with nutritious broccoli and a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz rotelle pasta
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the rotelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine the cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and heated through.
4. Combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Rotelle with Creamy Avocado Pesto

Rotelle with Creamy Avocado Pesto
This recipe combines the classic Italian pasta dish with a creamy and nutritious twist, featuring avocado pesto sauce. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this delicious and healthy meal in no time.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz rotelle pasta
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the blender or food processor with the avocado pesto sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Rotelle with Italian Sausage and Peppers

Rotelle with Italian Sausage and Peppers
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of Italian sausage, roasted peppers, and creamy tomato sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious rotelle noodle package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz (340g) rotelle noodles
– 1 lb (450g) sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz (794g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup (250ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rotelle noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add sliced peppers and garlic to the skillet; cook until peppers are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked rotelle noodles and sauce mixture; toss to combine.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with these 18 delicious Rotelle recipes! From creamy garlic parmesan pasta to spicy sausage and tomato bake, there’s something for everyone. Try adding shrimp to a lemon butter sauce or making a primavera with fresh vegetables. You can also go classic with cheesy ground beef casserole or get creative with pesto sun-dried tomatoes. And don’t forget the comfort foods like baked ricotta and mozzarella or carbonara with pancetta and peas. Whatever your taste, there’s a Rotelle recipe to make your weeknight dinner a hit!

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