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Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni: The Ultimate Comfort Pasta Recipe for Any Night of the Week

Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni: The Ultimate Comfort Pasta Recipe for Any Night of the Week
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This Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is rich, comforting, and full of savory flavor. Tender pasta is coated in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce with seasoned ground beef, making it a perfect family-friendly dinner that feels indulgent but comes together easily. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale

Scale: 1x

  • 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)

Instructions

  • Cook the Rigatoni
    Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

  • Sauté the Aromatics
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  • Brown the Beef
    Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6–8 minutes until fully browned. Drain excess grease if needed.

  • Build the Flavor
    Stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.

  • Make the Sauce
    Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

  • Add the Cheese
    Gradually stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth, then add mozzarella for extra creaminess.

  • Combine Pasta and Sauce
    Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening.

  • Serve
    Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.

  • Swap ground beef with Italian sausage for extra flavor.

  • Add mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost.

  • If reheating leftovers, add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/creamy-parmesan-beef-rigatoni-the-ultimate-comfort-pasta-recipe-for-any-night-of-the-week/