When comfort food cravings hit hard, this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef brings the perfect balance of indulgence and satisfaction. Picture tender rigatoni noodles swimming in a creamy garlic butter sauce, layered with seasoned ground beef, and topped off with bubbling, melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings everyone running to the table.

This dish is all about cozy, no-fuss comfort. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor—yet simple enough to make on a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s oven-friendly, so you can broil it at the end for that bubbly, golden cheese finish that makes it feel a little extra special.

What Makes Rigatoni Ideal for This Recipe?

Rigatoni’s ridged surface and large tube shape are perfect for soaking up all that luscious garlic butter sauce. Each bite traps bits of ground beef and gooey cheese, giving you a flavor bomb in every forkful. Unlike smaller pastas, rigatoni holds its own with hearty ingredients.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

Rigatoni pasta – The star of the dish, ideal for catching sauce inside and out.

Ground beef – Adds a savory, meaty bite that grounds the rich sauce.

Garlic cloves – Sautéed in butter to create the base of the flavor-packed sauce.

Butter – A rich base that deepens the flavor of the sauce.

Heavy cream – Makes the sauce ultra-smooth and luxurious.

Parmesan cheese – For a nutty, salty kick.

Mozzarella cheese – Melts into gooey perfection over the top.

Italian seasoning – Enhances the meat and sauce with a herby warmth.

Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to balance and bring out all the other flavors.

Fresh parsley (optional) – A sprinkle for garnish and a pop of color.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic butter. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rigatoni and browned beef back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated with the sauce.

Step 6: Add Mozzarella and Broil

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top. Broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy that cheesy, savory magic in every bite.

Serving and Storing This Cheesy Rigatoni Bake

This dish is best served straight from the oven while the cheese is still gooey and stretchy. If you’re hosting guests or serving a family dinner, bring the baking dish right to the table for a warm, inviting presentation.

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave with a splash of cream or cover and warm in the oven until heated through. It reheats beautifully without losing its creamy texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni

Garlic Knots

Buttery, fluffy knots brushed with garlic and herbs make an ideal side for this pasta bake.

Classic Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the rich rigatoni.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These caramelized beauties bring balance and a nutty note to the meal.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy carrots pair nicely with the savory depth of the beef and cheese.

Tomato Basil Soup

A cozy soup starter to round out a hearty pasta night.

Antipasto Skewers

Skewers with olives, salami, mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes add a fun, bite-sized option on the side.

Grilled Zucchini

Light and slightly smoky, this veggie side won’t compete with the main star.

Want More Comfort Pasta Recipes?

If this Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni hit the spot, don’t miss these other pasta comfort staples:

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Save this hearty, cheesy recipe to your Pinterest board so you can whip it up when you need some easy, filling comfort food.

Tried it your way? Maybe with spicy sausage or a hint of crushed red pepper? Drop your tweaks in the comments below—I’d love to hear them!

For daily dinner inspiration and crave-worthy comfort meals, check out SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite dish is just a pin away.

Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Sink your fork into this Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef—a rich and satisfying pasta dinner idea that’s perfect for cozy nights. Each tube of rigatoni is coated in velvety garlic butter sauce and folded with seasoned beef, then topped with gooey, golden mozzarella. This easy recipe is the ultimate comfort food for quick dinners, family gatherings, or anyone craving hearty, creamy food ideas. It’s weeknight-friendly, oven-finished, and guaranteed to leave plates clean.