If you’re craving a dish that hugs you with every bite, look no further than this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef Recipe. Imagine tender rigatoni swirled in a luxuriously creamy, garlicky butter sauce, studded with perfectly browned savory beef and melted cheeses that stretch and delight. This recipe is comfort food elevated to a crowd-pleaser, effortlessly blending rich flavors and satisfying textures for a meal that feels like a warm embrace after a long day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a starring role in creating the irresistible layers of flavor and texture in this recipe. From the tender rigatoni to the melt-in-your-mouth cheeses, every component is essential to the magic of this dish.
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta: Its ridged tubes are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- 1 pound ground beef: The savory backbone providing hearty, meaty goodness.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: For that silky, luscious base in the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings aroma and depth that wakes up every bite.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties herbs and flavor beautifully together.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a hint of heat to balance richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: To season and enhance every ingredient’s natural taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle spice note that complements the savory beef.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor adding depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Brings umami richness and helps create the silky sauce base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that irresistibly creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it melts into the sauce perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty, gooey, and the ultimate cheesy finish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright contrast to the richness.
How to Make Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente, following the package instructions carefully. This ensures the pasta has the perfect bite to hold up to the creamy sauce. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later just in case.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble in the ground beef and cook until fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks for even texture. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily — this step ensures your sauce stays wonderfully balanced in richness.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Add the butter to the skillet with the cooked beef, letting it melt and infuse the meat with luxurious silkiness. Toss in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, optional crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Sauté everything together for 1 to 2 minutes until your kitchen smells heavenly and you can tell those flavors have begun to meld.
Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Liquids
Stir in the tomato paste and allow it to cook for about a minute — this deepens its flavor and gives your sauce a subtle tang. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken for 3 to 4 minutes as the flavors concentrate beautifully.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses
Reduce the heat to low and add the Parmesan cheese along with half of the shredded mozzarella. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely, turning the sauce creamy and velvety. This cheesy goodness is the heart of what makes this recipe shine brilliantly.
Step 6: Combine Rigatoni with Sauce and Melt Topping
Return the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss carefully to coat every ridged tube in the luscious sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it cook on low for another 2 to 3 minutes — this melts the top layer perfectly, creating that irresistible cheesy crust.
How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of green brightness that cuts through the richness, making every forkful feel balanced and inviting. You could also add a few cracked black peppercorns or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added depth if you like.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette — the acidity brightens your palate between bites. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also make fantastic sides, bringing in texture and a touch of earthiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy twist, transfer the rigatoni mixture to a casserole dish, top with extra mozzarella, and broil until bubbly and golden brown on top. Serving in rustic cast iron skillets straight from stove to table also amps up that homemade charm and keeps the pasta warm longer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, so it makes a delicious, ready-made meal for busy nights.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the creamy texture without separation.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through ensures even warming and preserves that dreamy, creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of rigatoni?
Absolutely! Penne, ziti, or even shells are great substitutes since they’ll hold the creamy sauce similarly well. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe without ground beef?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that complements the richness but don’t overpower. You can skip them entirely or adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead for a dinner party?
Definitely! You can cook everything up to the point before melting the cheese on top, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, finish melting the cheese under the broiler or gently on the stove for that fresh-from-the-kitchen experience.
What type of cheese works best for melting in this recipe?
Mozzarella is ideal because it melts beautifully and stretches, creating that fun cheesy texture. Parmesan adds sharpness and depth. Using a blend of both ensures rich flavor and gooey texture.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef Recipe enough if you’re after a cozy, crowd-winning meal that’s simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but comes together quickly, perfect for any night you want that hearty comfort food magic. Give it a try and prepare to have a new favorite in your cooking rotation!
Print
Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef is a comforting Italian-American pasta dish featuring tender rigatoni tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce with ground beef, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for a hearty family dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart, until fully browned. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Sauté Garlic and Seasonings: Add the butter to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute to deepen the flavor.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan and half of the shredded mozzarella until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the cheesy beef sauce.
- Melt Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top of the rigatoni. Cover the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a baked version, transfer the rigatoni and sauce mixture into a casserole dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and broil until golden and bubbly.
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage in place of the ground beef to vary the protein.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your desired spice level or omit for a milder dish.
