Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

If you’re looking for a comforting and indulgent meal, look no further than Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef. This dish combines rich flavors and a creamy texture that is sure to please everyone at the table. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal. It’s filled with savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and the irresistible flavor of garlic butter. Plus, the rigatoni pasta holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Not only is it satisfying, but it’s also a great way to feed your family without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
12 ounces rigatoni pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente, about 11–13 minutes. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Once fully cooked, drain excess fat if needed and set the beef aside.
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt the butter, then whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to make a smooth roux.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is creamy and cheesy. Season to taste with more salt and pepper.
Add the cooked rigatoni and ground beef back into the skillet. Stir gently until the pasta is well coated in the cheesy garlic sauce and everything is heated through.
Top with extra shredded mozzarella (optional), cover for a minute to let it melt, then garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

Serve this creamy rigatoni hot, straight from the skillet. It’s perfect on its own or you can serve it alongside a green salad or some garlic bread. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a touch of color and added flavor!

How to Store Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

Store any leftover rigatoni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Tips to Make Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes when cooking the beef.
Feel free to replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
For extra creaminess, you can add more cheese or a bit of cream to the sauce.

Variation

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the dish for added nutrition and texture. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the beef.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any shape of pasta you prefer, but rigatoni works really well with the creamy sauce.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can replace ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or skip it entirely and add more vegetables.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the rigatoni. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently.

Now you’re ready to create this hearty and creamy dish that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!