If you’re craving ultimate comfort food that combines cheesy indulgence, savory meats, and a rich, buttery garlic sauce, this Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce is everything you need on your dinner table. The texture of rigatoni pasta soaks in all the saucy goodness, while gooey cheese and flavorful Italian sausage elevate each bite.

This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create bold, satisfying flavors. It’s the kind of dish that warms the soul, feeds a crowd, and leaves no leftovers behind. Whether it’s a cozy night in or you’re entertaining pasta lovers, this is a crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again.

What Kind of Rigatoni Should I Use?

Rigatoni pasta is ideal for this recipe because of its thick, ridged structure, which helps hold onto the creamy garlic butter sauce. You can use regular or bronze-cut rigatoni—bronze-cut varieties tend to grip sauces even better thanks to their rougher texture. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when baked with the meat and cheese.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce

Rigatoni Pasta – The base of the dish; sturdy and ideal for soaking in thick sauces.

Ground Beef – Adds hearty, savory depth and protein to the dish.

Italian Sausage – Brings robust, seasoned flavor; use mild or spicy based on your preference.

Fresh Garlic – Key for building that rich, aromatic garlic butter base.

Unsalted Butter – Melts down with garlic to create a luscious sauce.

Heavy Cream – Makes the sauce extra rich and silky.

Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully into the pasta for that classic gooey factor.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, umami kick and helps thicken the sauce.

Spinach (optional) – For a pop of color and earthy contrast.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Brings a subtle heat that enhances all the flavors.

Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning each layer perfectly.

How To Make the Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 3–5 minutes. Add Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, browned meats, and optional spinach into the skillet. Stir to coat everything evenly with the sauce. Fold in half of the shredded mozzarella.

Step 5: Bake It Off

Transfer the pasta mixture into a baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Broil or bake at 400°F for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.

How to Serve and Store This Pasta Bake

This dish is best served hot and straight from the oven, when the cheese is still melty and the top is golden. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave for a quick meal that still tastes fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble everything the day before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake until bubbly and heated through.

Can I freeze it?

Yes! Bake it in a freezer-safe dish and let it cool completely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

What cheeses work best for this?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are perfect here, but you could also mix in provolone or fontina for extra richness.

Can I make this without sausage?

Of course. You can use all ground beef, ground turkey, or even a meatless alternative for a vegetarian version.

Is spinach necessary?

Not at all—it’s an optional add-in for color and nutrients. Feel free to leave it out or replace it with kale.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?

Don’t overbake it and make sure the sauce is nice and creamy before going into the oven.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni, you’ll want to try these comforting dishes next:

Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce for a layered, cozy favorite.
One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta when you need fewer dishes.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for an extra veggie boost.
Red Pepper Rigatoni if you like a smoky, creamy twist.
Creamy and Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef for a variation with deeper garlic notes.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime you’re craving a cheesy, garlicky pasta fix.

And don’t forget to tag me or comment below with how yours turned out! Did you spice it up or sneak in extra veggies? Did the cheese pull impress? I’d love to hear about it.

For more daily inspiration, check out Life with Jam on Pinterest.

Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Rich, hearty, and incredibly cheesy, this Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce is the ultimate comfort meal. Loaded with ground beef, savory sausage, a velvety garlic butter cream sauce, and bubbling layers of mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s a weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion.