Description
This Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is a rich, comforting pasta dish featuring al dente rigatoni coated in a creamy Parmesan and mozzarella sauce, combined with savory browned ground beef and aromatic garlic and onions. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- 2 tablespoons 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 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Add beef broth and heavy cream. Simmer 5–7 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Gradually stir in Parmesan until melted, then add mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Toss cooked rigatoni with the sauce. Use reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil, and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American