Description
Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is a warm and indulgent meal that brings comfort to your dining table. This delightful pasta dish features tender rigatoni enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, perfectly complemented by savory ground beef. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The one-pan preparation means minimal cleanup while still delivering maximum flavor. Whether enjoyed on a cozy night in or during a festive family dinner, this recipe will surely leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 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
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion in olive oil until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Brown the ground beef in the skillet, breaking it apart until fully cooked; drain excess grease.
- Stir in tomato paste and seasonings; cook for a few minutes to enhance flavors.
- Pour in beef broth and heavy cream; let simmer to thicken.
- Gradually incorporate Parmesan until melted, followed by mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Toss cooked rigatoni with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pan preparation
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg