Description
A delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures with creamy Velveeta cheese and savory Italian beef marinara.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, then sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef, stir well, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, add cubed Velveeta cheese, and stir continuously until fully melted and creamy.
- Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the sauce.
- Remove from heat, transfer to serving plates, garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in the microwave or stovetop; add a splash of water or extra marinara if needed.
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey instead of beef.
- Consider adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Creamy Velveeta Rigatoni, Italian Beef Marinara, Pasta Recipe, Comfort Food