Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

This Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender beef, al dente rigatoni, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner that feels indulgent yet is easy to make any night of the week.

Why Make This Recipe

  • Rich and Comforting: This dish is packed with savory flavors and a luxurious creamy texture that everyone will love.
  • Easy Weeknight Meal: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something hearty and delicious.
  • Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what’s in your pantry.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta – Penne or ziti can also work if you don’t have rigatoni.
  • 1 lb beef sirloin or stew meat – Cut into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking.
  • Salt and pepper – To season the beef.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil – For searing the beef.
  • 1 small onion, diced – Adds depth to the sauce.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for flavor.
  • 1 cup beef broth – Forms the base of the sauce.
  • 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – The star of the dish.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Enhances the flavor with a blend of herbs.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Quick Overview

  1. Cook the rigatoni.
  2. Sear the beef.
  3. Make the sauce.
  4. Combine and simmer.
  5. Serve and enjoy.

Detailed Steps

  1. Cook the Rigatoni
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sear the Beef
    • Season the beef pieces with salt and pepper.
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 5-6 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics
    • In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic.
    • Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Make the Sauce
    • Pour in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan to deglaze.
    • Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
    • Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Combine and Finish
    • Return the seared beef to the skillet.
    • Add the cooked rigatoni and toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce.
    • Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Serve
    • Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
    • Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

  • With Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
  • Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate your own Parmesan for the best flavor and a smoother sauce.
  2. Don’t Overcook the Beef: Sear it quickly to keep it tender.
  3. Thin the Sauce: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of beef broth to loosen it.

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
  • Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
  • Swap the Protein: Use ground beef, chicken, or even shrimp instead of sirloin.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Yes, but store the pasta and sauce separately to avoid soggy noodles. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream? A: Half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of cornstarch can be used, but the sauce won’t be as rich.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

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