Name: Creamy Velveeta Rigatoni with Italian Beef Marinara
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 16 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 12 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed; ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

If comfort food had a crown, this dish would wear it proudly. Creamy Velveeta Rigatoni with Italian Beef Marinara blends velvety cheese sauce with a rich, slow-simmered beef marinara for a pasta dinner that feels like a warm hug. Each bite offers a perfect balance of tender rigatoni, savory beef, and that unmistakable smoothness Velveeta brings to the table.

This is the kind of meal that makes the kitchen smell irresistible long before it hits the plate. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, treating guests, or just satisfying your own craving for hearty Italian-American fare, it’s a dish that delivers comfort without compromise.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Velveeta Rigatoni with Italian Beef Marinara

It’s rich and indulgent yet approachable enough for a weeknight dinner. The Velveeta melts seamlessly into the sauce, giving it a luxurious texture, while the beef marinara adds deep, savory notes. It’s a one-two flavor punch that satisfies both cheese lovers and pasta purists. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that you can pair with endless sides and adapt with your favorite veggies or herbs.

What Kind of Rigatoni Should I Use?

While any rigatoni will work, a high-quality bronze-cut pasta will hold onto the sauce beautifully thanks to its slightly rough texture. If you prefer a softer bite, opt for a standard rigatoni made with enriched semolina. Whole wheat or gluten-free versions can also work well here — just keep an eye on cooking times so you don’t lose that perfect al dente bite.

Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Rigatoni with Italian Beef Marinara

A dish like this calls for simple, hearty ingredients that work together to create deep flavor and irresistible creaminess. The pasta is the perfect base, the beef marinara brings richness, and the Velveeta ties it all together into a sauce that clings to every bite.

Rigatoni pasta
Ground beef
Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Crushed tomatoes
Tomato paste
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Velveeta cheese
Fresh basil

How To Make the Creamy Velveeta Rigatoni with Italian Beef Marinara

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Marinara

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until browned. Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen.

Step 4: Add the Velveeta

Lower the heat and stir in cubes of Velveeta cheese, mixing until fully melted into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat every piece. Garnish with fresh basil before serving for a burst of freshness.

Serving and Storing Creamy Velveeta Rigatoni with Italian Beef Marinara

This recipe comfortably feeds about 6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. Serve it hot straight from the skillet for maximum creaminess. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or water to keep the sauce smooth.

What to Serve With Creamy Velveeta Rigatoni with Italian Beef Marinara?

Garlic Bread

The crispy edges and buttery garlic flavor pair perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Classic Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons add freshness and contrast.

Roasted Asparagus

A light, slightly charred side to balance the richness of the pasta.

Caprese Salad

Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil echo the Italian flavors in the dish.

Antipasto Platter

Olives, cured meats, and marinated veggies make a great starter or side.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Quick and easy, this adds a healthy green touch to the meal.

Red Wine

A glass of Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the savory marinara beautifully.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this Creamy Velveeta Rigatoni with Italian Beef Marinara made your taste buds happy, you might enjoy these other pasta favorites:

One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for a hearty, meaty twist.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a lighter, veggie-packed option.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta if you like a little heat with your creaminess.
Tuscan Chicken Pasta for a rich, herby sauce with tender chicken.
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for a seafood indulgence.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can make it again anytime. And if you try it, drop a comment to share your twist — maybe you added mushrooms, swapped the beef for turkey, or spiced it up with red pepper flakes.

I love hearing how others make these dishes their own. Your ideas might just inspire someone else’s dinner tonight.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food ideas on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next favorite meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Velveeta Rigatoni with Italian Beef Marinara is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into something special. It’s hearty, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, with flavors that feel both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation.