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Cheesy Beef Rigatoni in Decadent Garlic Cream Sauce

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Cheesy Beef Rigatoni in Decadent Garlic Cream Sauce is a rich and comforting pasta dish featuring tender rigatoni, savory ground beef, and a velvety garlic cream sauce layered with melty mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect for cozy nights or indulgent meals with family and friends.

Ingredients

  1. 16 oz rigatoni pasta
  2. 1 lb ground beef
  3. 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  4. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 2 tbsp olive oil
  6. 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  7. 4 oz cream cheese
  8. 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  9. 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  10. Salt, to taste
  11. Black pepper, to taste
  12. 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  13. 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
  2. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add cream cheese. Whisk until melted and smooth.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and half the mozzarella until fully melted into the sauce.
  6. Add cooked rigatoni and toss to coat evenly. If skillet is too small, mix in a large bowl or baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top. Cover until melted, or broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  8. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef for less grease.
  • Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version of the cream sauce.
  • Can be baked as a casserole for extra cheesiness.
  • Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more nutrition.
  • Reheat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cheesy-beef-rigatoni-in-decadent-garlic-cream-sauce-2/