The moment you dive into this Indulgent Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe, you’re embarking on a journey of pure comfort food magic. Picture perfectly cooked rigatoni enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce, generously loaded with savory ground beef and Italian sausage, then showered with melty mozzarella and nutty parmesan. This dish isn’t just dinner; it’s a celebration of rich flavors and soul-soothing textures that’s sure to become an instant favorite at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, coming together in a simple yet spectacular way. From the hearty rigatoni that holds onto every drop of sauce to the creamy cheeses that bind everything with gooey goodness, these essentials make this dish unforgettable.
- 1 pound Rigatoni Pasta: Choose bronze-cut rigatoni to ensure the sauce clings perfectly, delivering bursts of flavor in every bite.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: Adds a rich, meaty backbone that balances the creaminess and spices beautifully.
- 1 pound Italian Sausage: Provides a savory, slightly spiced depth that elevates the overall profile; swap for spicy sausage if you like a bit more heat.
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and a subtle kick that awakens the palate.
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Creates a silky base for the sauce, melting gently to lock in flavor without browning.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Delivers indulgent richness and creamy smoothness, though half-and-half works if you want it lighter.
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese (shredded): Opt for low-moisture to get that irresistibly stretchy, melty texture that everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated): Freshly grated for a sharp, nutty contrast that adds depth and a slightly salty kick.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors and balance the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Sprinkle in for a subtle spicy warmth or leave out to keep the dish mild and crowd-pleasing.
How to Make Indulgent Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This ensures your pasta has just the right bite to hold up against the creamy sauce ahead. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water to help loosen the sauce if needed.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sausage
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and cooked through—about 8 minutes. This step builds the rich meaty foundation that flavors the entire dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic in Butter
Lower the heat and stir in the minced garlic and unsalted butter to the skillet with the meat. Cook gently to melt the butter and release the garlic’s fragrance, creating the luxurious base of your garlic butter sauce without letting the butter brown or the garlic burn.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes velvety. At this point, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them—the flavors start to come alive here.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses
Add the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until completely melted and smooth. This cheesy blend is what makes this dish incredibly indulgent and satisfying, binding all the elements in creamy harmony.
Step 6: Combine Rigatoni and Sauce
Finally, toss the cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the cheesy meat sauce, gently folding it all together. If necessary, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce so every rigatoni tube is perfectly coated, ready for plating.
How to Serve Indulgent Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil over your pasta to add a pop of color and a fresh burst of herbaceous flavor that nicely cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
This stellar dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the creaminess with some fresh, crunchy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve portions in deep pasta bowls or cast iron skillets for that rustic yet elegant feel. For an extra touch, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of extra parmesan makes the presentation irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, though the texture of the pasta may become a little softer. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to two months.
Reheating
Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess, stirring frequently for even heating. Avoid microwaving directly to keep the cheese nice and melty.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is great for holding the sauce, penne or ziti would also work well and maintain that comforting, hearty texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
The dish has a gentle warmth if you include the red pepper flakes, but they’re optional and easy to omit if you prefer a mild meal.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the beef and sausage with plant-based meat alternatives and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or lentils for extra texture and flavor.
What cheese works best for melting?
Low-moisture mozzarella melts beautifully and creates that famous stretch, while fresh parmesan gives a sharp, flavorful finish to the sauce.
How long does it take to prepare the dish?
The entire process from start to finish takes about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion.
Final Thoughts
This Indulgent Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is a celebration of comfort and flavor wrapped in one unforgettable dish. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones and creating warm memories around the dinner table. Don’t wait to make it your own signature meal—you deserve a little indulgence tonight!
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Indulgent Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Indulgent Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce is a rich and savory pasta dish combining perfectly cooked rigatoni with flavorful ground beef and Italian sausage. The sauce is a luscious blend of garlic, unsalted butter, and creamy heavy cream, all topped with a generous mix of melted mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A touch of red pepper flakes adds an optional spicy kick, making this comforting meal a perfect option for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound Rigatoni Pasta (Use bronze-cut rigatoni for better sauce adherence and texture.)
Meat
- 1 pound Ground Beef (Substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.)
- 1 pound Italian Sausage (Swap with spicy sausage if preferred.)
Sauce
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced (Enhances the entire dish’s aroma.)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Use medium heat to melt without browning.)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional; omit if a milder dish is preferred.)
Cheese
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (Opt for low-moisture for the best stretch.)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated (Freshly grated is ideal.)
Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper (Adjust according to personal preference.)
Instructions
- Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Add Cream and Spices: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine with the garlic butter. Add red pepper flakes if using, and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni and browned meat mixture into the skillet with the sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy garlic butter sauce.
- Add the Cheeses: Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Using bronze-cut rigatoni enhances sauce retention and texture.
- For a lighter dish, substitute ground beef with ground turkey and heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Low-moisture mozzarella cheese provides the best melt and stretch quality.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to spice tolerance.
- Drain the cooked meat well to prevent a greasy sauce.
- Freshly grated Parmesan offers a superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
