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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 hearty, comforting pasta dish featuring rigatoni tossed in a rich garlic cream sauce with seasoned ground beef and melty cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add onion and sauté until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Reduce heat and pour in heavy cream. Stir in cream cheese and Parmesan, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened (3–4 minutes).
  4. Return beef to skillet, then add drained rigatoni. Toss well to coat pasta in sauce. Stir in half the shredded mozzarella.
  5. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top. Cover for a few minutes or broil briefly until cheese melts and bubbles.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness.
  • Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
  • Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • For a baked version, transfer to a casserole dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes.
  • Pairs well with a light red wine or Chardonnay.

Nutrition

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