Creamy Beef Pasta with Rigatoni is a rich and hearty dish that features tender pasta coated in a velvety cheese sauce with perfectly seasoned beef. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy Sauce: The cheese sauce brings a luxurious texture that clings to every piece of pasta.
Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and carbs, it’s a complete and satisfying meal.
Easy to Make: Requires minimal prep and simple ingredients.
Family Favorite: A kid-friendly option that also appeals to adults.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rigatoni pasta
Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Heavy cream
Cream cheese
Shredded mozzarella or Parmesan
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Boil rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
Brown the Beef: Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
Prepare the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese. Simmer until smooth. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
Combine: Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and additional cheese, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Different Meats: Try Italian sausage, ground turkey, or plant-based alternatives.
Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best?

Rigatoni is ideal because its ridges hold the sauce well, but penne or ziti also work.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. For better results, combine milk with a roux or more cheese.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

You can freeze the beef mixture, but the cream-based sauce may separate upon reheating.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and store in the fridge. Reheat before serving and add a splash of cream.

What cheese should I use?

Mozzarella and Parmesan both work well. You can also blend in cheddar for extra flavor.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer the sauce a bit longer, or add more shredded cheese.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What protein alternatives can I use?

Ground turkey, chicken, or vegetarian crumbles make excellent substitutions.

Does this recipe work for large batches?

Absolutely. It’s easy to double or triple for gatherings or meal prep.

What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef Pasta with Rigatoni delivers indulgent comfort in every bite. With its easy preparation, creamy texture, and rich flavors, it’s a dish that satisfies cravings and pleases the whole family. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual get-together.

Creamy Beef Pasta with Rigatoni

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Creamy Beef Pasta with Rigatoni is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender pasta tossed in a rich cheese sauce with seasoned ground beef, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and cream cheese. Simmer until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired.