01/28/2026
Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni Pasta with Savory Beef
I make this rigatoni pasta when everyone wants something warm, filling, and familiar. The sauce is rich but smooth, the beef is savory, and the garlic butter ties everything together. It comes together quickly and feels like a small reward at the end of the day.
What you should have on hand:
1 pound rigatoni pasta
1 pound ground beef
2 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Hereās how to make it happen:
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup hot pasta water, then drain.
In a wide skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and fully cooked.
Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss well, loosening with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
Let the pasta rest 1 to 2 minutes so it absorbs the sauce. Finish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Why this pasta works
Rigatoni holds onto the sauce, the beef adds depth, and the cheese melts into a creamy finish without feeling heavy. Itās classic comfort, done simply and well.
Nutrition (per serving, estimated)
Calories: ~520 ⢠Protein: ~32 g ⢠Carbohydrates: ~48 g ⢠Fat: ~26 g