Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce is a comforting dish that combines hearty pasta with flavorful meats and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s an easy and quick recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners. This dish brings together the rich taste of beef and sausage with the delightful aroma of garlic butter, making it a favorite for both family meals and gatherings.
How to Make Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup ground beef
- 1 cup Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter and meat mixture.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce
Serve the rigatoni hot directly from the skillet or transfer to a serving dish. Top with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor and color. This dish goes well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce
If you have any leftovers, let the rigatoni cool down. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Tips to Make Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well when tossed with the sauce.
- Use a mix of cheeses for more flavor; combining mozzarella and cheddar can give a nice texture and taste.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Variation
You can substitute ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adding some crushed red pepper flakes can give it a spicy kick if you enjoy heat.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta types like penne or fusilli if you prefer.
What type of cheese works best?
Mozzarella and cheddar are great choices. You can also experiment with provolone or gouda for different flavors.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat it before serving, and consider adding a little extra cheese for a fresh taste!
Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce
A comforting dish combining pasta with beef, Italian sausage, and a creamy garlic butter sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup ground beef
- 1 cup Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter and meat mixture.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Cook the pasta al dente for the best texture. Use a mix of cheeses for added flavor. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Meat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg