This Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy sauce and savory beef, making for a comforting and indulgent meal. The addition of Parmesan cheese creates a smooth and cheesy sauce that clings to the rigatoni for a truly satisfying dish.
Ingredients
For the beef mixture:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the creamy Parmesan sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta (or other pasta of choice)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Prepare the beef mixture:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the creamy Parmesan sauce:
- In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Once the cream starts to thicken (about 3-4 minutes), stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine the pasta and beef:
- Add the cooked rigatoni and beef mixture to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve:
- Divide the creamy Parmesan beef rigatoni among serving plates.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a little extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the richness of this dish perfectly.
This Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is a cheesy, creamy, and comforting dish that will quickly become a favorite!