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Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

  • Author: natali
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: None

Description

A hearty, creamy pasta dish featuring rigatoni noodles, ground beef, and a luscious Parmesan sauce, perfect for busy families.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb rigatoni pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred for flavor)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 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
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes to enhance the flavor of the tomato paste.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Add mozzarella for extra creaminess, stirring until smooth.
  7. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce. Use reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
  8. Transfer the creamy beef rigatoni to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot with additional Parmesan on the side.

Notes

Use fresh basil for garnish for added brightness. For a lighter version, swap half-and-half for the heavy cream.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

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Find it online: https://www.cookthatdish.com/creamy-parmesan-beef-rigatoni/