When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm, cheesy pasta dish. Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Butter Beef combines tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce for a meal that is both satisfying and indulgent. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or when you need a hearty meal to warm you up. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for making the perfect dish, variations, and more. Get ready to add this delicious recipe to your list of go-to meals!
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Butter Beef
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: The garlic butter sauce is infused with beef broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, creating a luxurious texture and flavor.
- Versatile: Customize this recipe with different proteins, cheeses, or additional vegetables.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its cheesy goodness and savory beef, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to make Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Butter Beef:
- Rigatoni Pasta (12 oz): A sturdy pasta that holds up well to rich sauces.
- Ground Beef (1 lb): Adds protein and a savory depth to the dish.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used for browning the beef and adding flavor.
- Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp): Creates the base of the garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Provides a fragrant and flavorful punch.
- Beef Broth (1/2 cup): Enhances the beefy flavor of the sauce.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Adds creaminess and richness.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Optional, but adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a hint of heat.
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish and a touch of freshness.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add Liquids: Pour in beef broth, bring to a simmer, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and Serve: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, toss to coat, and season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Butter Beef
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese enhance the flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Rigatoni should be al dente to hold up to the rich sauce.
- Drain Beef Well: Remove excess grease after browning beef to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
- Simmer the Sauce Gently: Avoid boiling to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your preference.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage.
- Cheese Choices: Try mozzarella, cheddar, or Gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrients.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- Spicy Twist: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Butter Beef with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the rich flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~450 per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 20g
Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Butter Beef is a comforting, flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and sure to please. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers every time. Try it out today and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
