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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Rigatoni
Start by cooking the rigatoni pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce later. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the beef and onions are cooked, pour in the beef broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Let the broth simmer for about 2 minutes.
Next, add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water at this point if you’d like the sauce to be a bit thinner.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is at the desired consistency, add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta in the creamy sauce until it is evenly coated. Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Add Parmesan
Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will melt into the sauce, adding richness and flavor. You can add more Parmesan to taste, depending on how cheesy you like your dish.
6. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the creamy beef rigatoni to serving plates. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil if desired for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef Rigatoni
- Use Lean Beef: If you prefer a leaner dish, you can opt for ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef, but beef provides the richest flavor.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich.
- Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider tossing in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini along with the beef for a vegetable boost.
- Customize the Spice: Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference. For a milder dish, omit them altogether, or add more for extra heat.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Creamy Beef Rigatoni with Parmesan is the ultimate comfort food—rich, indulgent, and perfect for any pasta lover. Whether you’re cooking for a family, having friends over for dinner, or simply treating yourself to something special, this dish checks all the boxes. The creamy sauce, hearty beef, and cheesy finish make it irresistibly good.
Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights. With its satisfying flavors and comforting textures, this dish will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.
So, grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and indulge in a plate of this creamy, cheesy goodness tonight. You won’t regret it!
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal with a side salad or some garlic bread for the perfect dinner. Your taste buds will thank you!
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