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Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

This Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is a comforting and creamy pasta dish that's quick to prepare, full of flavor, and sure to impress your family or guests.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 700
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 1 lb rigatoni pasta Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Meat & Dairy
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred) For better flavor.
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup beef broth
Vegetables and Aromatics
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
Condiments & Spices
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing.
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes Optional, adjust based on spice preference.
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped For garnish.

Method
 

Cooking Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water.
Sauté Aromatics and Meat
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the 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.
Make the Sauce
  1. 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 deepen the flavor.
  2. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for 5–7 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
  3. Gradually incorporate the Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted. Then, add the mozzarella and stir until smooth.
Combine and Serve
  1. Toss the cooked rigatoni in the skillet, ensuring it’s coated with the creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed for your desired consistency.
  2. Serve the creamy beef rigatoni on plates, garnished with fresh parsley or basil, and extra Parmesan on the side.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality meat and cheeses. To lighten the dish, use leaner ground meats, such as turkey or chicken, and reduce cheese. It also freezes well—cool completely before freezing.