Garlic Parmesan Beef Rigatoni: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

Garlic Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is a dish that never fails to impress, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The rich, savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese meld beautifully with tender beef and hearty rigatoni pasta, creating a comforting meal that warms the soul. This recipe has roots in Italian-American cuisine, where pasta dishes are celebrated for their ability to bring people together around the table.

What I love most about Garlic Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is its perfect balance of taste and texture. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, while the beef adds a satisfying heartiness that makes each bite a delight. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. Once you try this dish, you’ll understand why Garlic Parmesan Beef Rigatoni has become a beloved favorite in many households, including mine!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water; this will help flavor the pasta as it cooks. 2. **Cook the Rigatoni**: Once the water is boiling, add the rigatoni pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. **Drain and Set Aside**: Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water for later use, then drain the rigatoni in a colander. Set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Cooking the Beef and Aromatics

4. **Heat the Olive Oil**: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up for about a minute. 5. **Sauté the Onion**: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. 6. **Add Garlic**: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn. The aroma will be heavenly! 7. **Brown the Ground Beef**: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. 8. **Drain Excess Fat**: If there’s excess fat in the skillet, carefully drain it off. This will help keep the dish from being too greasy.

Building the Sauce

9. **Add Diced Tomatoes**: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and stir to combine. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. 10. **Incorporate Beef Broth**: Add the cup of beef broth to the skillet, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This will deepen the flavors. 11. **Stir in Heavy Cream**: Reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. This will create a rich and creamy sauce. 12. **Add Parmesan Cheese**: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it melts and combines smoothly. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

13. **Mix in the Rigatoni**: Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce until it is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you achieve the desired creaminess. 14. **Taste and Adjust Seasoning**: Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed. This is your chance to make it just right!

Serving the Dish

15. **Plate the Rigatoni**: Using a large serving spoon, plate the creamy garlic Parmesan beef rigatoni into bowls or onto plates. 16. **Garnish**: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and added freshness. You can also add a little extra grated Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. 17. **Enjoy**: Serve immediately while it’s hot and creamy. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

18. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, let the rigatoni cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It

Conclusion:

In summary, this Garlic Parmesan Beef Rigatoni recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. The combination of tender beef, rich garlic, and creamy Parmesan creates a symphony of tastes that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful dish with a fresh side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost, or even swapping out the beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Garlic Parmesan Beef Rigatoni a try! I’d love to hear about your experience, so don’t forget to share your thoughts and any personal twists you added to the recipe. Cooking is all about creativity and making it your own, and I can’t wait to see how you make this dish uniquely yours. Happy cooking! Print