Cheesy Beef & Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce

Here’s a rich, indulgent, and ultra-satisfying recipe for Cheesy Beef & Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce—think creamy, meaty, garlicky perfection with al dente pasta and a golden cheese crust!

Cheesy Beef & Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients:

For the Pasta & Meat:

• 12 oz (340g) rigatoni (or penne)

• ½ lb (225g) ground beef (80/20)

• ½ lb (225g) Italian sausage (casings removed, spicy or mild)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 4 tbsp (½ stick) butter

• 2 tbsp flour (for roux)

• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella (divided)

• ½ cup marinara sauce (optional, for depth)

For Topping:

• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente (1-2 mins less than package instructions). Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.

2. Brown the Meat:

   • In a large skillet, cook beef and sausage over medium-high heat, breaking into crumbles. Drain excess fat.

   • Add onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Sauté 3-4 mins until fragrant.

3. Make the Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux (1 min).

   • Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Simmer 3-4 mins until thickened.

   • Stir in Parmesan, 1 cup mozzarella, and marinara (if using). Adjust seasoning.

4. Combine & Bake:

   • Toss cooked pasta and meat into the sauce. Add pasta water as needed for creaminess.

   • Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella.

   • Mix panko with melted butter; sprinkle over cheese.

5. Broil:

   • Broil on high for 3-5 mins until golden and bubbly. Garnish with parsley.

Tips:

• Meatier: Add diced pancetta or bacon.

• Veggie boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

• Shortcut: Use pre-made Alfredo sauce + extra garlic.

This dish is comfort food at its finest—creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. Serve with garlic bread and a crisp salad! 🧄🍝🔥

Want a lighter version or slow-cooker method? Let me know! 😊