If you have been craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug in every bite, then you absolutely must try this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tender rigatoni pasta bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, generously loaded with savory ground beef, and crowned with a gorgeous blanket of melted, bubbly mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Every forkful bursts with rich creaminess and vibrant flavor that will make it your new family favorite in no time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need for this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef Recipe are simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create an extraordinary dish. Each component plays a crucial role, from the hearty ground beef that lends depth, to the creamy cheeses that bring irresistible gooeyness, and the fresh garlic and herbs that brighten every bite.
- 12 ounces Rigatoni Pasta: The perfect tubular shape to hold every bit of sauce and beef.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: Adds robust, savory flavor and satisfying protein to the dish.
- 4 cloves Garlic Cloves (minced): Brings aromatic depth and a lovely garlic punch.
- 4 tablespoons Butter: Creates a rich, silky base for the sauce and enhances the garlic flavor.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Gives the sauce its ultra-smooth, creamy texture.
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated): Melts smoothly for that nutty, tangy undertone.
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded): Perfect for that irresistibly stretchy, golden topping.
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs to elevate the overall flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances and balances all the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper: Adds just the right touch of mild heat and complexity.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (optional): Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the pasta and brings out its flavor, so don’t skip it. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce and beef mixture.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the beef into small crumbles. As it cooks, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning so the meat absorbs those amazing herbaceous notes from the start.
Step 3: Build the Sauce with Garlic Butter and Cream
Lower the heat to medium and add butter right into the skillet with the beef. Let it melt and then stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, careful not to burn the garlic as that would add bitterness. Pour in the heavy cream and let everything simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and feels luxuriously rich.
Step 4: Add Cheese to Perfect Creamy Texture
Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to melt it smoothly into the sauce. This is where your sauce transforms into a velvety, cheesy wonder that clings perfectly to the rigatoni. Taste and adjust the seasoning to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
Step 5: Combine Rigatoni and Beef in Sauce
Return the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Gently toss everything so that every piece of pasta is enveloped in that creamy, cheesy coating. This step guarantees that the flavors meld beautifully throughout the entire dish.
Step 6: Broil with Mozzarella for the Ultimate Finish
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Broil on high for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and turns a gorgeous golden brown. The broiled mozzarella adds a perfect layer of texture—ooey, gooey, and just slightly crisp on top.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the rigatoni from the oven and let it cool for a minute before garnishing with fresh parsley if you like. This extra touch adds freshness and a lovely contrast to the richness of the dish. Now it’s ready to enjoy—you’re one forkful away from pure comfort food bliss!
How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley works beautifully to add a bright, herbal note and lovely color contrast against the creamy, cheesy pasta. You might also try a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you love a slight kick.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and filling, so lighter sides pair wonderfully. Think crisp green salads with tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even simple steamed broccoli to balance everything out.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve directly in mini baking dishes for individual portions that look so inviting. Or scoop into beautiful bowls, layering on extra melted cheese and fresh herbs on top to impress your guests with every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the meal, let the leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy days.
Freezing
This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef Recipe freezes well if you want to save some for later. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much during storage to bring back its signature creaminess. Stir often to heat evenly and avoid drying out the beef or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of rigatoni?
Absolutely! While rigatoni’s ridges and shape hold the sauce wonderfully, penne, ziti, or even shells can work just as well, depending on what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap out the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or even a plant-based meat substitute. The creamy garlic butter sauce is so flavorful, it stands strong on its own.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a dinner party?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce up to the point before broiling, then refrigerate. When your guests arrive, simply sprinkle mozzarella on top and broil fresh for that bubbly finish.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
Simply stir in a bit more heavy cream, milk, or even some reserved pasta water. This will loosen the sauce and help it coat your rigatoni perfectly without being gloopy.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Of course! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers make fantastic additions. Just add them when you combine the pasta and sauce for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef Recipe is a true game changer for any dinner night. It’s loaded with comforting flavors, quick to prepare, and loved by everyone who tries it. Give yourself the gift of this mouthwatering dish and watch it become a cherished classic in your kitchen, bringing warmth and smiles to your table time and time again.
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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: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Indulgent Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef is a rich and comforting pasta dish featuring tender rigatoni enveloped in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce, combined with hearty ground beef and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this recipe balances bold Italian flavors with a creamy, cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces Rigatoni Pasta
Beef and Sauce
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
Garnish
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until fully browned and no longer pink. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, stirring well to combine.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce: Lower the heat to medium, then add butter to the skillet and let it melt completely. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the cream sauce, continuing to stir until the cheese melts fully and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Combine Pasta and Beef with Sauce: Return the cooked rigatoni and browned ground beef to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is thoroughly coated with the rich creamy sauce.
- Bake with Mozzarella Topping: Transfer the creamy beef and pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Place under the oven broiler on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top if desired. Serve hot for a deliciously creamy and cheesy meal.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt.
- Keep an eye on the broiler to avoid burning the mozzarella cheese.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream alternative.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice color contrast and fresh flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
