Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

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When comfort food calls, nothing satisfies quite like a creamy pasta dish. This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef is the kind of hearty dinner that feels like a warm hug. Rich garlic butter lays the foundation for a silky cheese sauce that coats each rigatoni tube, while ground beef adds a savory depth that rounds out the dish beautifully.

It’s a meal that comes together quickly, yet tastes like it simmered all day. The texture of the rigatoni soaks up every drop of that cheesy, garlicky goodness, and each bite is layered with flavor. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or something special to share with friends, this pasta delivers pure satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

This dish is everything a comfort meal should be. It’s creamy and cheesy without being heavy, and the garlic butter adds a luxurious twist. The beef brings savory richness that balances perfectly with the dairy-forward sauce. It’s also incredibly easy to prepare, with ingredients that are simple yet pack a punch. Plus, it feeds a crowd, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

What Kind of Rigatoni Should I Use?

Look for classic semolina rigatoni with ridges. The ridges are key because they help the sauce cling to the pasta, making each bite flavorful. Avoid smooth rigatoni if possible, as the sauce won’t hold on as well. You can use whole wheat or gluten-free versions if preferred, but standard ridged rigatoni gives the best results.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

This recipe is all about indulgent flavor and smooth, cheesy comfort. The ingredients bring richness and depth without overwhelming complexity. Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible dish come to life:

• Rigatoni pasta
• Ground beef
• Garlic cloves
• Unsalted butter
• Heavy cream
• Cream cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley

Each of these ingredients plays a key role. The rigatoni holds the sauce like a dream. Ground beef brings hearty protein and flavor. Garlic and butter lay the flavor base with richness and aroma. Cream cheese and heavy cream form the creamy backbone, while Parmesan and mozzarella provide layers of sharp and gooey cheesiness. A dash of salt and pepper balances it all out, and parsley finishes the dish with freshness.

How To Make the Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Season with salt and pepper, then remove and set aside, draining excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. This forms a rich and flavorful base.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Lower the heat and whisk in the cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Return the beef to the skillet. Add the cooked rigatoni and a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Toss gently until the pasta is fully coated.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and, if you like a kick, a few red pepper flakes. Serve immediately while warm and gooey.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

This rich and satisfying pasta feeds about 6 hungry people, making it a go-to for family dinners or leftovers you’ll look forward to. Serve it piping hot right from the stove with a generous dusting of Parmesan and parsley. If you’re going for a fancier touch, a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of garlic oil will elevate it beautifully.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to revive the creamy texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef?

Garlic Bread

Warm, crisp garlic bread is the ultimate sidekick for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Caesar Salad

A cool Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing offers a fresh balance to the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasted broccoli brings a slightly bitter, nutty contrast that pairs perfectly with the cheesy pasta.

Sauteed Green Beans

Keep it light and snappy with green beans tossed in olive oil and lemon zest.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

A bright salad with acidity helps cut through the richness and adds freshness.

Balsamic Mushrooms

Caramelized mushrooms in balsamic glaze are a deeply savory match for the beefy pasta.

Garlic Roasted Asparagus

Simple, crisp-tender asparagus spears with garlic make for an elegant side.

Crusty Artisan Bread

If garlic bread isn’t your style, plain crusty bread will still be a hit for mopping up sauce.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef hit the spot, you’re going to love exploring more pasta goodness. Check out these favorites for your next dinner inspiration:

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta when you want extra indulgence with a garlic cream twist.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a quick one-pan dinner solution.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce to blend meaty flavors and melty cheese bliss.
• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe if you crave velvety sauce in every bite.
• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce for a comforting oven-baked crowd pleaser.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use fresh parsley or go bold with extra garlic? Did you toss in mushrooms or add red wine?

I always enjoy hearing how others make these meals their own. Don’t hesitate to ask questions either—let’s help each other cook with flavor and ease.

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