Description
Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is a comforting and hearty pasta dish combining tender rigatoni, savory ground beef, and a rich creamy Parmesan sauce. Enhanced with garlic, onions, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s an easy stovetop meal that’s perfect for a satisfying family dinner or cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
Beef and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred for flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rigatoni and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste and Seasoning: Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes to enhance the flavor of the tomato paste.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it fully melts into the sauce. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss well to coat in the creamy sauce. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the creamy Parmesan beef rigatoni and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency easily without thinning flavor.
- Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor and moisture balance.
- For a spicier kick, increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of crushed chili.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: creamy pasta, beef rigatoni, Parmesan sauce, easy dinner, Italian comfort food
