Name: Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb rigatoni pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 4 cloves garlic, freshly minced; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Craving the ultimate comfort pasta that wraps you in creamy, cheesy richness with every bite? This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef is the cozy dinner you never knew you needed. Each forkful offers the perfect balance of bold garlic butter, stretchy cheese pulls, and hearty beef crumbles nestled into al dente rigatoni.

What makes this dish extra satisfying is the way the rigatoni soaks up all that garlicky, buttery sauce, while the melty cheese binds everything together in savory harmony. It’s a weeknight-friendly bake that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating this decadent pasta bake is a breeze when you’re armed with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need and why each piece matters:

Large Skillet: To brown the beef and infuse the garlic butter evenly.
Medium Pot: For boiling rigatoni to that perfect al dente bite.
Oven-Safe Baking Dish: Essential for layering the pasta, sauce, and cheese before baking.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the beef mixture without scratching your cookware.
Colander: To drain the pasta without losing any noodles.
Box Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds richness.

Having these on hand keeps the prep smooth and mess-free, allowing you to focus on building flavor and enjoying the cooking process.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

Rigatoni Pasta – The tube shape holds sauce beautifully and gives a hearty bite.
Ground Beef – Adds rich, savory flavor and protein to the dish.
Garlic (freshly minced) – Infuses the butter and beef with irresistible aroma.
Unsalted Butter – Creates a luxurious base for the garlic-infused sauce.
Heavy Cream – Brings the creaminess that makes this dish extra indulgent.
Mozzarella Cheese (shredded) – Melts smoothly and binds everything with a gooey finish.
Parmesan Cheese (grated) – Provides salty, nutty depth to balance the richness.
Italian Seasoning – Adds herbaceous warmth and depth.
Salt and Cracked Black Pepper – Enhances and balances all other flavors.
Fresh Parsley (optional) – For a pop of freshness and color after baking.

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

Step 1: Boil and Prep

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, then add butter and minced garlic. Stir until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, then fold in half of the mozzarella and half of the parmesan. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is velvety.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble

Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and mix until well-coated with the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan evenly on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Perfect with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

How to Serve and Store This Rigatoni Bake

This pasta bake is best served fresh from the oven when the cheese is at its gooey, molten peak. For a perfect pairing, try a side of roasted vegetables or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or a 350°F oven until warmed through. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich. Add a tablespoon of flour to help thicken it if needed.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, ziti, or shells also work well. Just be sure to cook them al dente.

Is this dish spicy?

Not at all! But you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne if you like heat.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What kind of beef should I use?

Ground chuck or 80/20 ground beef works best—it’s juicy and flavorful. Just be sure to drain excess fat.

How do I keep the cheese from clumping?

Use freshly shredded cheese and stir it in gradually over low heat for a smooth sauce.

Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

You might also enjoy the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, which leans creamy and hearty with every bite. Or, take a spicy turn with Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta, perfect for heat lovers.

For another beef-forward comfort dish, check out Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce. If Alfredo is more your style, the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is a crowd-pleaser.

Prefer something baked and bubbling? The Buffalo Chicken Lasagna offers a bold, cheesy twist that’s worth a try.

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If you make this, I’d love to know what you think! Did you swap the cheese blend? Add herbs? Leave a comment below and share your take.

For more dinner ideas like this, check out my Pinterest board at LadyPlate on Pinterest.

Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

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Description

This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef is the ultimate weeknight comfort pasta. It’s rich, satisfying, and packed with bold garlic, melty cheese, and hearty beef all baked into tender rigatoni.