Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni With Savory Beef

If you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef is exactly what you need. Rich, indulgent, and packed with all the good stuff—comfort food at its best.

The rigatoni pasta soaks up that creamy garlic butter sauce, and the savory beef adds the perfect hearty bite. The cheese ties it all together, making every forkful extra delicious.

It’s creamy, cheesy, and the garlic butter brings that rich, savory flavor that makes this dish irresistible. The beef adds that satisfying bite, while the rigatoni ensures you get all that creamy goodness in every bite.

Let me show you how easy it is to make this decadent, one-pan dish. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor—it’s sure to be a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy garlic butter, melty cheeses, and pasta always deliver that warm, rich bite.
• One-Pot Simplicity: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to enjoy the meal.
• Customizable Heat: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick—or leave them out for a milder version.
• Satisfying and Filling: Between the beef and pasta, it’s a full, satisfying meal that sticks.
• Easy for Beginners: No tricky steps—just simple layering of flavor.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: About 45 minutes

Servings: Serves 4 to 6 people as a main dish

Difficulty: Easy—perfect for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife and cutting board

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, cheesy garlic butter rigatoni. Exact measurements are included in the recipe card at the end.

Main Ingredients:

• Rigatoni pasta – ridged tubes that hold the creamy sauce perfectly
• Ground beef – lean or 80/20 for best flavor
• Butter – unsalted, for the garlic butter base
• Garlic – fresh cloves, minced
• Heavy cream – adds richness and body
• Parmesan cheese – finely grated, for that nutty depth
• Mozzarella cheese – shredded, for the gooey finish

Seasonings:

• Salt – to bring everything together
• Pepper – freshly cracked, for subtle heat
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – a touch of heat if you like it spicy

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley – chopped, for a pop of color and freshness

Variations for Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni

• Swap the Protein: Use Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Add Veggies: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers add depth and balance the richness.
• Make It Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Use a Different Pasta: Penne, ziti, or shells also work well if you don’t have rigatoni.
• Make It Baked: Pour everything into a casserole dish, top with extra mozzarella, and broil until bubbly and golden for a baked pasta twist.

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni Step-by-Step

1. Boil the Rigatoni

• Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
• Add a generous pinch of salt.
• Drop in the rigatoni and cook until just al dente (usually about 1–2 minutes less than the package says).
• Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon.
• Cook until browned and fully cooked through—about 7–9 minutes.
• Season lightly with salt and pepper as it cooks.
• Transfer the beef to a bowl and drain off excess fat if needed.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Base

• In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
• Melt the butter, then add the minced garlic.
• Stir constantly for 30 seconds to 1 minute until the garlic is soft and fragrant—don’t let it brown.

4. Build the Sauce

• Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
• Add the grated Parmesan and stir gently as it melts.
• Season with more salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
• Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.

5. Combine Everything

• Add the cooked beef back into the sauce.
• Stir in the drained rigatoni and toss to coat.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until creamy and smooth.
• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the pasta.
• Stir gently or cover the pot for 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish is rich, creamy, and filling on its own, but here are a few easy ways to round out your meal:

• Add a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette helps cut through the richness.
• Serve with Bread: Warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette is great for soaking up extra sauce.
• Include Roasted Veggies: Try roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for a bit of balance.
• Top with Extras: Add more Parmesan, a spoonful of ricotta, or a drizzle of olive oil for a little flair at the table.

Storing Creamy Garlic Butter Rigatoni

In the Fridge:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.

In the Freezer:

• Freeze for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above. Note that cream-based sauces may change texture slightly.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Fresh Garlic: Don’t skip fresh garlic—its aroma builds the foundation of flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta holds its shape and finishes cooking in the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy liquid helps bind and smooth out the sauce.
• Grate Cheese Yourself: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly.
• Simmer the Cream Gently: Avoid boiling the cream—gentle heat prevents curdling and gives a silkier sauce.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	580 kcal
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	32g
Saturated Fat	17g
Cholesterol	95mg
Fiber	3g
Sugar	3g
Sodium	470mg

Note: Values may vary based on portion size and specific brands used.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish stores well. You can prep it in the morning, refrigerate it, and reheat gently before serving.

What if I don’t have rigatoni?
Penne, ziti, or even fusilli all work well in place of rigatoni.

Can I make this dish without cream?
You can try using half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich. Add extra cheese to help it thicken.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! It’s creamy, cheesy, and flavorful without being too spicy—just skip the red pepper flakes if needed.

Conclusion

Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni With Savory Beef is one of those comforting, no-fuss meals that always satisfies. The rich, buttery garlic sauce hugs every bite of beef and pasta, while the melted cheese makes it extra cozy. It’s a go-to pasta dinner for when you want something hearty, simple, and full of flavor—without needing to babysit the stove all night.