Name: Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound rigatoni pasta; 1/2 pound ground beef; 1/2 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot); 3 cups fresh spinach; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

This Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce is a pure comfort food delight. Imagine tender rigatoni pasta coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, loaded with savory ground beef, juicy chunks of Italian sausage, wilted spinach, and ribbons of melted mozzarella. Each bite delivers a savory, creamy, and slightly spicy experience that’s absolutely irresistible.

It’s a one-pan-style dish that brings together bold Italian-American flavors with creamy textures and crisped cheesy edges. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, looking to wow dinner guests, or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this hearty pasta bake is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into something special.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce

Rich & Savory: The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage infuses the sauce with deep, meaty flavor.
Cheesy & Comforting: Melted mozzarella and a dash of cream bring everything together in gooey harmony.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.
Satisfying Texture: Rigatoni captures the sauce beautifully, and a quick broil gives the top a cheesy, golden crust.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Make ahead and bake when ready!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create this pasta masterpiece with ease, having the right tools makes a world of difference:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: For browning meats and combining your creamy sauce base. Essential for building flavor.
Large Pot: To cook rigatoni to a perfect al dente texture. Generous space keeps pasta from sticking.
Colander: For quick and easy draining of your pasta.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for breaking up sausage and beef while browning.
9×13 Baking Dish: A sturdy ceramic or glass dish ensures even baking and helps crisp the cheesy topping.
Oven (Broiler Optional): The final step for that irresistibly bubbly, golden cheese top.

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

Rigatoni Pasta: Its large tubes and ridges are perfect for catching sauce and melty cheese.
Ground Beef: Provides a rich, hearty base with bold, savory depth.
Italian Sausage: Adds a punch of flavor and subtle spice. Use mild or hot depending on preference.
Fresh Spinach: Balances the richness and adds color and nutrients.
Garlic: The star of the sauce—aromatic and buttery when sautéed.
Butter: The flavor foundation for the sauce, adding depth and silkiness.
Heavy Cream: Brings everything together in creamy luxury.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy goodness.
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning every layer perfectly.
Crushed Red Pepper (Optional): For those who love a gentle kick.

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

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Meats

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Break apart the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until fully browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir frequently and let the garlic cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Cream

Stir in fresh spinach until wilted, then pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Mix and Combine

Add the cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece in the creamy garlic mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper (if using).

Step 6: Layer with Cheese and Bake

Transfer everything into a 9×13 baking dish. Top generously with mozzarella cheese and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes. Then broil on high for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), and serve immediately.

Serving and Storing This Pasta Bake

This dish is best served hot and bubbling right out of the oven. The cheesy crust is at its prime and the flavors are bold and rich. Pair it with a light green salad or garlic bread to balance the meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to bring back the saucy consistency. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight and reheat in the oven for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, ziti, or even rotini would work well, but rigatoni offers the best sauce-hugging texture.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be substituted, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Is it necessary to broil the cheese topping?

Not mandatory, but highly recommended. The broil adds a golden crust and deeper flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate unbaked. When ready to serve, bake and broil fresh for best texture.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mildly spiced from the sausage. If you like more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or use hot sausage.

What cheeses can I substitute for mozzarella?

You can use provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a fun twist.

Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni in Garlic Butter Sauce, you’ll definitely want to explore these other comforting and flavor-packed recipes:

Try the rich and cozy Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for a creamy, baked pasta spin.
The Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta gives similar flavors in a quicker stovetop style.
For something with chicken, the Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti is always a hit.
Warm up with a bowl of Hearty Italian Sausage Soup if you’re craving comfort without the pasta bake.
Or dig into a French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole that brings a different twist on savory baking.