Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

Why make this recipe

Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is a comforting dish that brings everyone together. The rich flavors of beef and creamy sauce make it perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or gatherings with friends. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress anyone who tries it. Plus, the combination of cheese and pasta creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without being complicated.

How to make Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

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)

Directions:

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.

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How to serve Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

Serve Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni hot, straight from the skillet. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can also be plated nicely with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. Adding a side salad or garlic bread complements the meal perfectly.

How to store Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore some creaminess if needed.

Tips to make Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

1. Choose high-quality ground beef for better flavor.
2. Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
5. Feel free to replace rigatoni with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli.

Variation

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition. For a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

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FAQs

What can I serve with Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni?

It’s great with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

Can I freeze Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni?

Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well, making it a perfect option for meal prep for busy weeks. Just portion out servings to enjoy later.